Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 38 reviews
  • Author: Melanie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 to 5 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A comforting and easy-to-make chicken noodle soup featuring tender shredded chicken, hearty vegetables, and thick egg pasta, simmered to perfection in a flavorful homemade broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, nourishing meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1.4 lb / 700g bone-in, skin-on chicken thigh fillets (Note 1)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1-2 tbsp olive oil, separated

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, diced (brown, white or yellow)
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 2 cups celery, chopped (Note 2)
  • 2 cups carrots, chopped (Note 2)

Liquids and Pasta

  • 3 cups chicken broth/stock
  • 3 cups water
  • 6 oz / 200g thick egg pasta (or other pasta of choice) (Note 3)

Garnish

  • Finely chopped parsley (optional)


Instructions

  1. Season Chicken: Generously season the chicken thigh fillets with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
  2. Heat Oil: In a dutch oven or large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Brown Chicken: Place the chicken, skin side down, in the pot and cook for 1½ to 2 minutes until browned. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 2 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
  4. Cook Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium-low. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of fat from the pot; if little or no fat remains, add 1 tablespoon olive oil (or 2 tablespoons if there is very little). Add diced onion, crushed garlic, dried thyme, and oregano. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped celery and carrots to the pot and cook for 3 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
  6. Deglaze the Pot: Pour a small splash of chicken broth into the pot to loosen any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Stir well, scraping to incorporate the flavor.
  7. Add Chicken and Liquids: Return the browned chicken and its juices to the pot. Pour in the remaining chicken broth and water.
  8. Simmer: Increase heat to medium and bring the soup to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred.
  9. Remove Chicken: Take the cooked chicken out of the pot and place it on a large bowl or plate.
  10. Add Pasta: Add the thick egg pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
  11. Shred Chicken: While the pasta cooks, remove the skin from the chicken and discard. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized chunks.
  12. Combine & Season: Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Taste the soup and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  13. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with finely chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • Note 1: Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide more flavor and moisture but can be substituted with boneless, skinless if preferred.
  • Note 2: The celery and carrots add texture and sweetness; feel free to adjust quantities to your taste.
  • Note 3: Thick egg pasta works best for a hearty soup, but any pasta of choice can be used. Add pasta just before serving to avoid overcooking.