Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This comforting Chicken Noodle Soup comes together in just 40 minutes and is perfect for when youre craving something warm and hearty. Whether you're under the weather or simply looking for a cozy meal, this classic soup is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- cup chopped onion
- cup chopped celery
- 4 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can vegetable broth
- pound chopped cooked chicken breast
- 1 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- teaspoon dried basil
- teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender and fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Add the chopped cooked chicken, egg noodles, sliced carrots, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 6: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the noodles to cook through.
Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary, then serve hot.
Additional Tips
Best Noodles: Egg noodles are the traditional choice for chicken noodle soup. If you don't have them, you can use other pasta like rotini or fusilli, but egg noodles are ideal for their texture and absorption of the broth.
Customize to Your Taste: This recipe is versatile! You can add other herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even include a couple of bay leaves for an extra layer of flavor. If you like more garlic, feel free to add a minced clove or two.
Improvise with Ingredients: You can substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. Use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken breasts, or swap vegetable broth with just chicken broth if thats what you have. For a dairy-free option, try using oil instead of butter.
What Goes Well with Chicken Noodle Soup?
Chicken noodle soup is satisfying on its own, but if you want to add a little extra, try pairing it with:
- Basic Biscuits
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- French Baguettes
- Classic Dinner Rolls
- Toasted Garlic Bread
Storing and Freezing Tips
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Chicken Noodle Soup: Yes, you can freeze this soup! If you plan to freeze it, consider cooking the noodles separately from the soup, as they may become mushy when thawed. To freeze, place cooled soup into freezer bags, label with the date, and freeze for up to 6 months. Reheat on the stove before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 162
- Total Fat: 6g (8% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 2g (11% DV)
- Cholesterol: 46mg (15% DV)
- Sodium: 1357mg (59% DV)
- Total Carbohydrate: 12g (4% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% DV)
- Total Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 13g (27% DV)
- Vitamin C: 2mg (2% DV)
- Calcium: 31mg (2% DV)
- Iron: 1mg (6% DV)
- Potassium: 174mg (4% DV)
Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Adjustments may be needed based on personal dietary requirements.

History and Origin:
Chicken noodle soup is an iconic comfort food that traces its origins to the culinary traditions of Europe, particularly in Jewish and Eastern European cuisine. While its exact history is difficult to pinpoint, it became a staple of American households in the 20th century, often regarded as the perfect remedy for cold weather or a sore throat. The American version, made with chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles, became widely popular due to its hearty and nourishing qualities. Its often associated with home-cooked meals, family gatherings, and providing warmth during illness.
Regional Variations:
While chicken noodle soup is beloved worldwide, different regions have their own takes on the dish. In the United States, it's common to use egg noodles, while in other countries, such as China, variations may feature rice noodles or different herbs and spices. In the Mediterranean, lemon and olive oil may be added to give the soup a more refreshing flavor. The key to the soups versatility lies in the use of different broths and types of noodles, making it adaptable to a wide range of tastes and regional preferences.
How It Differs From Similar Dishes:
Compared to other types of soups, such as chicken and rice or vegetable soups, chicken noodle soup stands out because of its focus on egg noodles and the comforting blend of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Unlike cream-based soups, chicken noodle soup has a clear, broth-based consistency, making it a lighter option that still feels hearty. The addition of dried herbs like basil and oregano provides a distinctive, savory flavor, which differentiates it from more basic broths or chicken soups.
Where It's Typically Served:
Chicken noodle soup is often served as a main dish in many households, especially in North America and Europe. It's a popular lunch or dinner option, especially when someone is feeling unwell. Youll often find it served in hospitals, on sick days, or as part of family gatherings, where comfort food is a priority. Its a dish that is easy to prepare in large batches, making it ideal for sharing with friends or family. Additionally, its a popular choice in cafes and restaurants as a quick, healthy option for customers looking for a light yet satisfying meal.
Interesting Facts:
1. The phrase "chicken soup for the soul" comes from the idea that this dish has healing properties, particularly when someone is ill. It's been regarded as a home remedy for colds and flu for centuries.
2. In the U.S., over 55 million servings of chicken noodle soup are consumed every year, especially during the winter months.
3. Many people swear by homemade chicken noodle soup as the ultimate comfort food, and its often made with leftovers from rotisserie chicken, making it an economical and time-saving dish.
4. In 2007, chicken noodle soup was even recognized by the National Chicken Council as the most popular soup in the United States.
Conclusion:
Chicken noodle soup is more than just a dish; its a cultural icon. Its origins in European cuisine, paired with regional variations, allow it to transcend borders and unite people through its simple, comforting nature. Whether youre using it as a remedy for illness, or just enjoying it as a warm meal on a cold day, chicken noodle soup remains a beloved classic around the world.
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FAQ about Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Comments
Joshua Diaz
05/17/2023 02:42:53 AM
I decided to try out this recipe with a slight variation by adding just 6 cloves of minced garlic. I opted for homemade chicken or vegetable broth and used "No Yolks" egg noodles. Upon tasting, I found that adding a bit more basil and oregano enhanced the flavors. This dish was not only easy to whip up but also incredibly comforting, especially for someone like me who's been under the weather for what feels like forever. For my next attempt, I plan to add more onion and celery for a heartier soup.
Angela Jackson
05/06/2024 09:23:13 PM
I substituted all chicken broth in this recipe, using a combination of homemade and store-bought broth. I added fresh basil and oregano from my garden, as well as some dried herbes de Provence for extra flavor. I sautéed the sliced carrots with onion and celery before combining everything. This recipe was enough for 8 servings, which comfortably fed 6 people who each enjoyed two bowls. The dish was absolutely delicious! I served it with a large green salad, rolls, fresh fruit, and brownies for dessert.
Heather Baker
11/20/2023 03:45:38 PM
Excellent recipe! I made a couple of modifications. I sautéed the carrots with the onion for a more tender texture. Instead of vegetable broth, I used all homemade chicken broth for a richer flavor. I added minced garlic to the vegetables cooked in butter, and I doubled the amount of noodles, turning it into more of a chicken & noodles dish which was delicious! This is a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. I highly recommend this recipe, it also freezes well!
Linda Collins
03/05/2025 11:09:02 PM
This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare and tastes amazing! I simmer the chicken breasts in the broth to give it a deeper flavor before adding the other ingredients to create a delicious soup.
Benjamin Ramirez
05/19/2025 10:40:57 PM
Fantastic chicken noodle soup recipe! It's incredibly simple and tastes just like homemade. Instead of pre-cooking the chicken, I let it simmer in the broth along with the vegetables for extra flavor. I opted for frozen egg noodles and threw in some garlic. To make the soup creamier, I included two cans of condensed cream of chicken soup. Before adding any salt, I suggest giving it a taste test, especially if you're not using low sodium chicken broth as it might not be needed. Highly recommend trying out this recipe!
Charles Lopez
11/17/2023 07:03:40 PM
I followed someone's recipe suggestion and it turned out to be absolutely fantastic! In a pan with melted butter, I sautéed 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup of chopped onion, 1 cup of chopped celery, and 1 cup of sliced carrots. At the same time, I diced 1/2 pound of raw boneless, skinless chicken breast into small pieces. I added the chicken, broth, basil, oregano, salt, garlic pepper, a bit of poultry seasoning, and some dried thyme to the vegetable pot. After bringing it to a boil, I lowered the heat, covered it, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. In the meantime, I cooked 3 cups of egg noodles in another pot according to the package instructions. Once done, I added the drained noodles to the chicken and veggies, letting it all simmer for an extra 10 minutes. It was truly the best!
Charles Baker
06/18/2023 06:32:45 PM
Absolutely love this recipe with my own twists! I've made it multiple times, mostly in the slow cooker. I skip the step of sautéing the vegetables beforehand and simply toss everything in the slow cooker. I use 2 boxes of 32-ounce chicken broth and exclude the vegetable broth. I incorporate the specified spices, plus a touch of cayenne and a generous amount of parmesan cheese. Next, I add 2 frozen chicken breasts (you could use 3, but 2 works for my family of four). I cook on high for around 4 hours. By this time, most of the chicken has naturally shredded into pieces, and any remaining parts can be easily separated in the slow cooker before serving.
Ashley Collins
12/13/2024 07:32:21 PM
I found this recipe to be extremely simple, and I tweaked it to enhance its simplicity even more. I sautéed the carrots together with the onions and celery. Once I had added and heated the broths, I included raw cubed chicken breast pieces and let everything simmer for 20-30 minutes. About ten minutes before serving time, I tossed in some egg noodles, simmered the soup for an additional 5 minutes, and then turned off the heat. I let the soup sit for another five minutes. The best part? Only one pot to clean!
Nicole Perez
06/01/2025 02:50:07 AM
Wonderful and easy-to-follow recipe. To achieve a delicious restaurant or home-cooked taste, start by sautéing vegetables and herbs in butter – onions, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and thyme – until they are tender. Then, add broth and Bay leaves, bring it to a simmer, and gently place the chicken in the pot. Turn off the heat and allow it to cool, if time allows. Remember to remove the Bay leaves before serving. When you're ready to enjoy the dish, reheat it and add some noodles. I recommend thick homemade egg noodles from the freezer section, but dried egg noodles work well too. This is just a suggestion on technique, not a criticism of the recipe. Cheers!
Jacob Baker
04/18/2025 03:55:27 AM
I received enthusiastic feedback from senior clients and neighbors whom I served this soup to, with many proclaiming it to be the most delicious chicken soup they've ever tasted. I utilized pre-packaged white meat rotisserie chicken from Costco and Better Than Bullion chicken broth in the exact amounts specified in the recipe. This recipe is definitely a winner, as I've already been asked to make it again.
Samuel Davis
10/01/2024 09:35:59 PM
This recipe is amazing! I started by cooking my chicken breast first. I melted about two tablespoons of butter and added two cups of chicken broth to the pan, then seasoned the chicken breast with basil and oregano before poaching it in a covered pan. I decided to add extra chicken broth, basil, and oregano for a more flavorful soup - I enjoy a zesty taste. Since my chicken breasts were quite large, I ended up with a generous amount of soup. Additionally, I sautéed the carrots together with the onions and celery, adding even more depth to the dish.
Paul Nelson
03/26/2025 05:54:48 AM
Wonderful recipe! I hosted friends and they absolutely enjoyed the flavor. Ideal for soothing colds or sniffles. I will certainly be preparing this dish once more!
Amy Parker
12/06/2022 01:12:41 PM
This recipe is fantastic! I started by cooking the chicken breast and then used a mixture of butter and chicken broth as the base in the pan. I seasoned the chicken breast with basil and oregano before poaching it in the covered pan. I decided to add extra chicken broth, basil, and oregano for a more flavorful and zesty soup. Since my chicken breasts were huge, the soup made was quite plentiful. Additionally, I sautéed the carrots together with the onions and celery, which added a great depth of flavor to the dish.
Richard Roberts
06/04/2024 10:02:11 PM
Excellent recipe for beginners! I included minced garlic and substituted Thai basil for an extra kick. Absolutely delicious!
Anthony Jackson
02/14/2023 05:26:21 PM
I prefer using rotisserie chicken over chicken breast as I find it enhances the flavor.
Catherine Parker
12/07/2022 10:47:03 PM
I followed the recipe precisely this time.
Katherine Parker
05/25/2024 05:49:18 PM
It was excellent! I decided to add extra broth for more flavor.
Stephanie Evans
01/05/2024 04:54:00 AM
My family absolutely adored it!! The recipe was easy to follow.
Adam Hall
03/11/2023 05:47:47 AM
My husband was feeling unwell and found that most canned soups tasted too salty for his liking. However, he absolutely enjoyed this particular version. I prepared it using pre-cooked chicken and made the broth with Knorr powder. It was both delicious and quick to make!
Nicole Adams
05/02/2024 08:14:48 AM
I decided to enhance the dish by incorporating a minced garlic clove into the vegetables and pouring in a cup of heavy whipping cream at the end with the heat turned off. Additionally, a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top when serving took it to the next level. The result was absolutely fantastic!