Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

  • cup butter
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • cup chopped onion
  • 12 cups water
  • 4 cups chopped, cooked chicken meat
  • 9 cubes chicken bouillon
  • cup chopped carrots
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • teaspoon dried marjoram
  • teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 8 ounces egg noodles

Directions:

  1. Gather all the ingredients.
  2. In a large stockpot, melt butter over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chopped celery and onion to the pot and saut until they are slightly softened.
  4. Pour in the water and stir in the chicken, bouillon cubes, chopped carrots, parsley, marjoram, pepper, and bay leaf.
  5. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
  6. After 30 minutes, add the egg noodles and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
  7. Season the soup to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup!

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value*
Calories 227 -
Total Fat 8g 10%
Saturated Fat 4g 19%
Cholesterol 74mg 25%
Sodium 1124mg 49%
Total Carbohydrate 18g 7%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Total Sugars 1g -
Protein 19g 38%
Vitamin C 1mg 1%
Calcium 43mg 3%
Iron 2mg 10%
Potassium 262mg 6%

* 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 information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Chicken noodle soup is one of the most beloved and comforting dishes worldwide. This warm, nourishing meal has been a staple in many households for generations. Known for its ability to soothe the soul and body, especially during colder months or when feeling under the weather, it combines tender chicken, savory broth, and soft noodles in perfect harmony.

Origin and History

The origins of chicken noodle soup are difficult to pinpoint, as variations of this dish have existed for centuries. Some food historians trace its roots to ancient Chinese medicine, where soups made with chicken and herbs were believed to have healing properties. In the Western world, however, the dish became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly as part of the "comfort food" culture. The version we recognize today, with its classic egg noodles and hearty broth, became especially common after World War II when canned versions made the dish accessible to the masses.

Regional Variations

While the basic concept of chicken noodle soup remains the same, different regions have their own variations of the recipe. In the United States, it is often made with egg noodles, carrots, celery, and chicken bouillon. However, in Europe, especially in Eastern Europe, it is not uncommon to find it with dumplings or even in a clear, broth-only form, without the noodles at all. The soup is also commonly adapted in other parts of the world by including spices, herbs, or even different types of noodles, such as rice noodles in Asian countries. Some Italian variations use tortellini, while in Latin America, you might find versions with cilantro and lime.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While chicken noodle soup shares some ingredients with other traditional soups, such as chicken and vegetable-based broths, it stands out because of its simplicity and its focus on the interplay between the chicken, the noodles, and the broth. Unlike chicken vegetable soups, where the focus is often on a variety of vegetables, chicken noodle soup centers primarily on the savory, clear broth and soft noodles. Additionally, in comparison to chicken stew, which may be thicker and include a wider variety of vegetables or seasonings, chicken noodle soup typically maintains a lighter, more delicate consistency.

Where It Is Typically Served

Chicken noodle soup is often served as a comforting lunch or light dinner, especially during cold weather. It is also frequently offered as a remedy when someone is feeling sick or has a cold. In restaurants, it is a popular starter or entre, particularly in diners and cafs, due to its universal appeal. Some cultures even serve it as a main dish during festive times, adapting it with richer ingredients or additional sides. Whether homemade or from a can, it is an easy dish to prepare and enjoyed by many around the world.

Interesting Facts

  • Chicken noodle soup is often touted for its medicinal properties, particularly its ability to help alleviate cold symptoms. The combination of hot broth and steam is believed to help clear nasal passages, while the nutrients from the chicken and vegetables support the immune system.
  • In the United States, chicken noodle soup was a key part of the food rations during World War II, helping to feed soldiers and civilians alike. Its simplicity and affordability made it an ideal choice during times of scarcity.
  • The dish gained even more popularity in the 20th century thanks to canned versions made by brands like Campbell's, which began mass-producing it in the 1940s. Today, canned chicken noodle soup is still a popular pantry staple.
  • Chicken noodle soup is also considered a comfort food in many cultures, often eaten during times of stress, illness, or sadness. Its warm, soothing qualities make it a go-to meal for many seeking a sense of comfort and healing.

FAQ about Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Store leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze the soup (without the noodles) for up to 3 months. When reheating, add fresh noodles to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute for cooked chicken meat. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup as you would with cooked chicken. This can save time and add extra flavor.

Yes, you can make chicken noodle soup in a slow cooker. Add all ingredients except the noodles, then cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the noodles about 30 minutes before serving to ensure they don't become mushy.

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular egg noodles with gluten-free noodles. Be sure to check the ingredients in your chicken broth or bouillon to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

To prevent the noodles from becoming too mushy, cook them separately and add them to the soup just before serving. This will help maintain their texture.

Yes, feel free to add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if you're adding harder vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes.

While egg noodles are traditionally used in chicken noodle soup, you can use other types of pasta such as rotini, elbow macaroni, or even gluten-free pasta. Just keep in mind that different pasta types may require slightly different cooking times.

If you want to adjust the flavor, you can experiment with herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Yes, chicken noodle soup can be frozen. However, it's best to freeze the soup without the noodles, as they can become mushy when reheated. You can cook fresh noodles when you reheat the soup.

To thicken the soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or mashed potatoes. Alternatively, you can cook the soup uncovered for a longer period to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally.

Comments

MICHAELBGRANT

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Don't need cooked chicken the chicken can and should be cooked with the soup. Can swap chick broth for cubes and water. I added 4 times the carrots. Excellent and easy!

BUISSE

02/25/2005 04:58:06 AM

fantastic soup!I used 2 boxes of Swansons Organic Chicken Broth along with 4 cups of chicken stock instead of the chicken boulillon and water. Added a small bag of frozen white corn. also, i used a whole store bought rotisserie chicken instead of just chopping up cooked chicken meat. I placed the whole chicken in to the pot when adding the veggies, spices,and broth and simmered it all for 30 minutes like the recipe says to do. Then removed the whole chicken from the pot and removed the meat from the bird then placed the meat back in to the pot of soup. I've had so many complements on this recipe it is unbelievable. Everyone says it's the BEST chicken soup they have ever had. Thanks so much for this wonderful easy recipe!

Ron

03/19/2020 12:55:21 AM

I make this in our 7qt crockpot & it's full to the brim. After 4-6 hrs on low, served with warm, fresh French bread. Mmmm good! Did make a few adjustments though. Instead of water I use chicken stock. Also used 3Tbs of Better than Bouillon paste mixed in 1c of hot water, instead of the bouillon cubes. 3 cans of Kirkland (Costco brand) chicken breast chunks liquid & all. Carrot sticks, chopped in 1/2in sq. (Only for ease of preparation) This is the only chicken noodle soup recipe I make.

KIMBER

10/07/2022 09:52:50 PM

This is my go to Chicken Noodle Soup recipe. I have made it for ten years. I do make a few adjustments...I use a cup of carrots and double the amount of onions, which I sauté in the butter with the celery. This allows the carrots to soften up. I also use 6 cups chicken stock and 6 cups of chicken broth instead of the water and bouillon.

cruiseplanner

03/29/2023 04:41:13 PM

I loved the flavor of this soup and with my revisions will be making it again in the future. 12 cups of liquid is too much and the carrots and celery could be almost doubled. I used skinless chicken legs and cooked them in the soup along with using fat free sodium free chicken broth. Instead of the Parsley and Marjoram I used a half teaspoon of Poultry seasoning. I do not put the noodles in the soup but boil them and put the soup on top of them with each serving. Keeps noodles from turning to mush. Family does that with all noodle soups we make.

Idahed

04/11/2020 01:06:20 AM

Great recipe. I prepped the chicken on the Traeger with a 2 hour smoke, and added 1/2 teaspoon thyme, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, and a sprinkle of dill weed. Soup turned out great!

Jennifer Park

02/12/2019 04:45:16 AM

This was the first time I made chicken soup and it turned out great!! I followed some suggestions to double the veggie portions (except celery), I added peas and corn and minced garlic, i followed the boiled chicken recipe on this site using chicken thighs, and I didnt add the bay leaf bc I didnt have any. I also used linguini instead of egg noodles. I also used the broth made from the boiled chicken recipe and added more chicken broth. Lots of steps were made, but it was worth it in the end!! Served this with bread and butter :)

Amanda N Rogers

05/26/2019 02:37:26 AM

I used rotisserie chicken from Costco to make this recipe. In lieu of the bouillon, I opted to make my own bone broth which adds several extra hours of cook time to the recipe. It’s worth it though. Trim off all the meat and set aside. Cook the rotisserie carcass in water salted with sea salt, fresh cracked peppercorns, a few bay leaves, a red onion, carrots, and a few garlic cloves. After simmering for several hours, strain everything off. Then proceeded to make the recipe as suggested. It was very delicious.

randysr57

12/22/2020 02:50:47 PM

This recipe is now my only chicken noodle soup recipe . Everyone loved it. My picky grand kids loved it too. The only change I made was I used Wyler's Chicken powder because I did not have the chicken bouillons. I will use chicken broth or Wyler's chicken powder in this recipe the next time I make it because in prior recipes the chicken bouillons made the taste too salty and the Wyler's was perfect . Other than using Wyler's I added more celery and carrots and cooked for about an hour . I used medium egg noodles which was added at the end for the last 10 minutes of cooking time.

mbvern

02/08/2021 12:12:15 AM

Simple, delicious recipe! My only changes are to sauté chicken WITH the butter, onions (we don’t care for celery) and Totally Guacamole seasoning from The Nutmeg Spice Co (I put that on everything!). Then I add the water with 3.5 Tablespoons of chicken Better Than Bouillon. The rest is as written. Oh & I did double the noodles. I like more noodles

Kate Jones

11/23/2023 05:29:39 AM

Good starting point for soup, but needed more carrots and onion. Also used chicken stock instead of bouillon cubes, because I find that bouillon cubes made it too salty. Added peas and parsley for flavor and color!

Pamela

06/28/2025 12:55:55 AM

Next time I'll add more carrots and bit less noodles. I do like it.

ivonne

03/11/2025 07:49:40 PM

This has been my go to for years always yummy

Virginia Wright

02/18/2025 09:58:41 PM

A total success in my kitchen.

SilverOil1115

01/29/2025 05:52:40 PM

Loved this soup, however like others, I used chicken broth, and a couple spoons of Better than Bullion (add to taste). Additionally, as with most all the soups I make, I added a large handful of shredded cabbage.

Kelli Holliday

12/17/2024 08:59:03 PM

I’ve been making this for years and it’s a much requested meal in our house!

PurpleFries3920

12/15/2024 12:01:05 PM

Easy quick delicious classic flavor!!

L Tong

11/26/2024 12:52:36 AM

Good.

marci

09/04/2024 05:31:46 PM

My family's favorite chicken noodle soup. I'm not known to follow a recipe to a T, and hate to use just part of an ingredient, so I pack it out with all of the ingredients while keeping the soup base the same. Example: I use an entire onion. But our favorite ingredient is the bouillon cubes. It gives the soup an extra kick of saltiness to bring out the pasta and an overall richness that chicken broth just doesn't do. Only problem with adding as much as I do is that leftovers often don't have enough broth.

Pamela Nguyen

06/27/2024 08:55:13 PM

This recipe blew me away.