Miso Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Name: Miso Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups water; 8.5 ounces frozen udon-style noodles; 4 ounces rotisserie chicken, shredded; 1 Tablespoon white miso paste; Everything bagel seasoning to taste

Cook Time: 10 minutes

This comforting soup combines tender udon noodles with flavorful miso and shredded rotisserie chicken, finished with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for a delightful crunch and aroma.

Ingredients

This recipe makes 2 servings. Ingredient quantities are for the original yield. Adjustments to servings may require slight modifications in preparation, but cooking steps remain the same.

1 1/2 cups water
8.5 ounces frozen udon noodles
4 ounces rotisserie chicken, shredded
1 tablespoon white miso paste
Everything bagel seasoning, to taste

Directions

Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
Add the udon noodles and cook until they soften, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and reduce the heat to low.
Remove 2 to 3 tablespoons of the hot water from the pan. Mix the miso paste into this water until fully dissolved, then return the mixture to the noodles and chicken.
Simmer gently for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve the soup in bowls and finish with a generous sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 223
Total Fat: 8g (10% DV)
Saturated Fat: 2g (10% DV)
Cholesterol: 69mg (23% DV)
Sodium: 741mg (32% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 19g (7% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
Total Sugars: 1g
Protein: 19g (37% DV)
Vitamin C: 0mg (0% DV)
Calcium: 30mg (2% DV)
Iron: 1mg (8% DV)
Potassium: 231mg (5% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient data may not be available for all ingredients. If following a medically restrictive diet, consult your doctor or registered dietitian.

The Rich Story Behind Miso Chicken Noodle Soup

Miso Chicken Noodle Soup is a modern adaptation of traditional Asian soups, combining the comforting qualities of chicken noodle soup with the savory depth of miso, a fermented soybean paste with centuries of history. Miso itself originated in Japan as early as the 7th century and was influenced by Chinese fermentation techniques brought to the islands by Buddhist monks. Over time, miso became a staple of Japanese cuisine, prized not only for its flavor but also for its nutritional benefits, particularly its rich content of probiotics and amino acids.

Regional Variations and Distinctive Flavors

While classic chicken noodle soups are often associated with Western cuisine, this miso-infused version reflects a fusion of culinary traditions. In Japan, miso soup is typically served with tofu, seaweed, or vegetables, and occasionally with seafood or chicken. In contrast, Western-style chicken noodle soups prioritize a clear broth with soft noodles and chunks of meat. The Miso Chicken Noodle Soup bridges these worlds, featuring thick, chewy udon noodles and shredded rotisserie chicken in a miso broth, creating a heartier and more umami-rich alternative.

How It Differs From Similar Soups

Unlike traditional chicken noodle soups, which rely on a light, often salty chicken broth, miso chicken noodle soup introduces a deep, fermented flavor that is slightly sweet and tangy. The miso paste gives the soup a cloudy, rich consistency that differentiates it from clear broths. Compared to other Asian noodle soups, such as ramen or pho, miso chicken noodle soup is generally lighter in spices and does not use a long-simmered stock, making it quicker to prepare while retaining full flavor.

Typical Serving Occasions

This comforting soup is often served as a lunch or light dinner, particularly in colder months when warmth and heartiness are most appreciated. It is commonly enjoyed in casual Japanese restaurants, fusion eateries, or at home for a quick, satisfying meal. Due to its simplicity, it is also a popular choice for busy weeknights or for anyone seeking a nourishing bowl of soup without extensive preparation.

Interesting Facts and Culinary Notes

One intriguing aspect of miso chicken noodle soup is the versatility of miso itself. There are various types of miso, such as white (shiro), red (aka), and mixed (awase), each with unique flavors ranging from mild and sweet to robust and salty. The use of everything bagel seasoning as a garnish in this recipe is a modern Western twist, blending familiar flavors with traditional Japanese ingredients. Nutritionally, this soup provides protein from chicken and probiotics from miso, making it both delicious and beneficial for digestion. Its fusion nature makes it a symbol of cross-cultural culinary innovation, appealing to both traditionalists and contemporary food enthusiasts.

FAQ about Miso Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

The total time to make Miso Chicken Noodle Soup is 15 minutes, with 5 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking.

Yes, you can substitute udon noodles with other types of noodles like ramen or soba. Adjust cooking time according to the type of noodles used.

If you don't have miso paste, you can substitute with vegetable or chicken broth, though the flavor will be less rich. Adding a small amount of soy sauce can also mimic some of the umami flavor.

Yes, you can make the soup vegetarian by using a plant-based protein like tofu instead of rotisserie chicken. You can also use vegetable broth in place of the chicken-based options.

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the noodles.

While the soup can be frozen, the noodles may become soft and lose their texture when reheated. If you plan to freeze it, consider storing the broth and noodles separately.

Everything bagel seasoning is a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt. It's used to add flavor to the soup. You can skip it, or substitute with other seasonings like sesame oil or garlic powder.

Yes, you can use cooked fresh chicken, but it may take longer to prepare. Simply cook the chicken beforehand and shred it before adding it to the soup.

This soup is not spicy, as it focuses on savory umami flavors from the miso paste and chicken. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.