Ultimate Bob Evans Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe (Copycat)

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when it reminds you of a beloved restaurant classic. This copycat bob evans chicken noodle soup recipe brings the comforting flavors of Bob Evans right to your kitchen. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth, all simmered to perfection. This isn't just soup; it's a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little taste of home. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is designed to be simple and satisfying. We'll guide you through recreating this family-friendly meal using either a slow cooker or an Instant Pot, depending on your time and preference. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that tastes just like (or maybe even better than) the original!

Ingredients for Bob Evans Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

The Chicken & Broth Base

Let's start with the heart of this comforting soup: the chicken and broth. For the chicken, about 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal. It cooks up tender and shreds easily. Now, for the broth, you'll need 8 cups of chicken broth. Good quality broth really makes a difference here, so if you have homemade on hand, definitely use it! Otherwise, opt for a low-sodium variety to control the saltiness of the final dish. These two ingredients set the stage for that classic Bob Evans flavor.

Noodles and Veggies

Next up, we have the noodles and veggies, which add texture and flavor. For the noodles, 12 ounces of Amish-style egg noodles are fantastic. Their slightly thicker texture holds up well in the soup and gives it that authentic, hearty feel. If you can't find Amish-style, regular egg noodles will work just fine. As for the veggies, you'll need 3/4 cup of diced carrots, 3/4 cup of diced celery, and 1 cup of diced onion. This trio forms the aromatic base that makes the soup so savory and comforting.

Here's a quick list of the veggies you'll need:

• Carrots: 3/4 cup, diced
• Celery: 3/4 cup, diced
• Onion: 1 cup, diced

Butter and Seasoning

Finally, let's talk about the ingredients that bring it all together: butter and seasoning. Believe it or not, butter is key to that rich, satisfying flavor! You'll need 1/4 cup (that's half a stick) of melted butter. As for seasoning, keep it simple with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. These simple additions enhance the natural flavors of the chicken, noodles, and veggies, creating a soup that's both comforting and delicious. Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, but start with these amounts and taste as you go!

And don't forget the butter!

Slow Cooker Bob Evans Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Instructions

Combine Ingredients and Cook

Alright, let's get this slow cooker magic started! Grab your slow cooker and toss in the chicken broth, chicken breasts, melted butter, carrots, celery, and onion. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is nicely combined. Now, here's the key: set your slow cooker to low for 7 hours or high for 4 hours. Walk away and let the flavors meld together. Seriously, that's it for now. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting!

Why the slow cooker? It's all about that low and slow cooking process. This method allows the flavors to really deepen and develop, creating a richer, more satisfying soup. Plus, it makes the chicken incredibly tender and easy to shred later on.

Add Noodles and Finish

so the slow cooker has worked its magic for 7 (or 4) hours. Now it's time to add the noodles. But here's a crucial tip: add the noodles during the last hour of cooking. This prevents them from becoming mushy and ensures they're perfectly al dente. Stir in the noodles, making sure they're submerged in the broth. At this point, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker. It should fall apart easily. If it doesn't, give it a little more time. Once the noodles are tender and the chicken is shredded, give it one final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. And that's it! Your Slow Cooker Bob Evans Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is ready to serve!

Here's a quick recap:

• Add noodles during the last hour of cooking.
• Shred the chicken in the slow cooker.
• Taste and adjust seasoning.

Instant Pot Bob Evans Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe: A Quick Version

Pressure Cooking the Flavors

so you're short on time but still craving that classic Bob Evans taste? No problem! The Instant Pot is your new best friend. Start by adding the chicken broth, chicken breasts, melted butter, carrots, celery, and onion to the Instant Pot. Season with salt and pepper just like you would for the slow cooker version. Now, seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual (or pressure cook) for 12 minutes. Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes, then do a quick release to vent any remaining pressure. This method drastically cuts down the cooking time while still infusing all those delicious flavors into the chicken and broth.

Why the Instant Pot? It's all about speed and convenience. You get that slow-cooked flavor in a fraction of the time. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Noodles and Final Touches

Once the pressure is released, carefully open the Instant Pot. Shred the chicken with two forks right in the pot. Now, switch the Instant Pot to the saute function. Add the egg noodles and stir them into the broth. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the noodles are cooked to your liking, give the soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. And there you have it – Instant Pot Bob Evans Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe ready in under an hour!

Here's a quick comparison between the two methods:

Serving Suggestions for Your Bob Evans Chicken & Noodles

Alright, you've got a pot of comforting chicken and noodles ready to go. What next? Let's talk serving suggestions! First off, a simple side salad is a great way to add some freshness and crunch to the meal. Think a classic garden salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. Or, for something a little heartier, try a Caesar salad with creamy dressing and Parmesan cheese. Bread is another must-have. A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up all that delicious broth. If you're feeling ambitious, try making your own homemade bread. If not, store-bought works just fine! And last but not least, don't forget dessert! Chocolate chip cookies are a classic pairing with chicken noodle soup. The sweetness of the cookies complements the savory soup perfectly.

Here are some quick serving ideas:

• Side Salad: Garden salad, Caesar salad, or a simple green salad.
• Bread: Crusty bread, dinner rolls, or homemade bread.
• Dessert: Chocolate chip cookies, apple pie, or a simple fruit salad.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bob Evans Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Got questions about making this delicious soup? You're not alone! Here are some common questions I get asked about this Frequently Asked Questions About Bob Evans Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, along with my best answers. From substitutions to storage tips, I've got you covered so you can make the perfect bowl of chicken noodle soup every time.

Can I use chicken stock instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! Chicken stock and chicken broth are similar and can be used interchangeably in this recipe. Stock tends to be richer and have a slightly fuller flavor due to the bones being simmered, but broth will work just as well. If you're watching your sodium intake, be sure to use a low-sodium version of either.

What if I don't have Amish-style egg noodles?

No problem at all! Regular egg noodles are a great substitute. You can also use other types of pasta like rotini, ditalini, or even gluten-free noodles if needed. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different noodles may cook at different rates.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

For sure! Frozen carrots, celery, and onions work perfectly fine in this recipe, especially if you're short on time. Just add them to the slow cooker or Instant Pot as directed in the recipe. No need to thaw them first.

How should I store leftovers?

Leftover chicken noodle soup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the noodles will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so the soup may thicken up quite a bit. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water to thin it out.

Can I freeze this soup?

Freezing chicken noodle soup can be a bit tricky because the noodles tend to get mushy when thawed. However, if you want to freeze it, I recommend cooking the noodles separately and adding them to the soup after it has been thawed and reheated. This will help maintain their texture. Store the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite veggies. Green beans, peas, corn, or even spinach would be great additions. Just add them to the slow cooker or Instant Pot along with the other vegetables.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

While this is traditionally a chicken noodle soup, you can easily adapt it to be vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some extra vegetables or beans for added protein and heartiness.

Bringing Bob Evans Home: The Final Sip

So, there you have it – a delightful, homemade version of the bob evans chicken noodle soup recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. From the convenience of the slow cooker to the speed of the Instant Pot, this recipe is adaptable to your lifestyle. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or get creative with substitutions, the most important thing is to enjoy the process and savor the comforting flavors. Now, go ahead, ladle up a bowl and relish in the warmth and deliciousness of this timeless dish!