Simple Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe From Scratch: Super Easy

Ever feel like a warm hug in a bowl? That's what a good chicken noodle soup should be, and it's way easier to make than you might think. Forget the canned stuff; we're talking real deal, homemade comfort with a simple chicken noodle soup recipe from scratch. This isn't some all-day kitchen marathon. We'll break it down, step-by-step, showing you how to create a flavorful broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and tender chicken, all without breaking a sweat. This guide is your ticket to soup stardom, whether you're a kitchen newbie or a seasoned pro. We'll start by making the stock, the soul of any good soup, then move on to building layers of flavor with sautéed vegetables and seasonings. Next, we'll get to the noodles and chicken, bringing it all together in one pot of deliciousness. Finally, we'll cover how to serve it up and store any leftovers. So, grab your apron, and let's get cooking! Your tummy will thank you for this simple chicken noodle soup recipe from scratch.

Making the Stock: The Heart of Simple Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

let's talk stock. It's the unsung hero of any great soup, and for our simple chicken noodle soup recipe from scratch, it's absolutely crucial. You might be tempted to reach for a carton, but trust me, taking the extra step to make your own stock is worth it. It's like the difference between a watercolor painting and a high-definition photograph. You get a depth of flavor that you just can't buy. We're going to use a rotisserie chicken here, because who has time to roast a whole chicken just for stock? The beauty of this is that you get the meat for the soup and a carcass packed with flavor for the broth.

First, pull all the meat off the rotisserie chicken and set it aside for later. Now, toss the leftover carcass, skin and all, into a big pot. Don't be shy, the bones are where the magic happens. Then, add about 10 cups of water, a roughly chopped onion, a couple of carrots, and some celery stalks. Throw in a bay leaf or two, and a few peppercorns. These aren’t just for show; they’ll make the stock sing. Bring the whole thing to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least an hour, or even two if you have the time. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor gets. Think of it like brewing a really good cup of tea, but for your soup.

Once the stock is done, you'll need to strain it through a fine-mesh sieve. This gets rid of all the solids, leaving you with a clear, flavorful broth. Now, you might think, "Is it really that different?" Yes! It's like the difference between a store-bought guitar and one that's been lovingly handcrafted. The homemade stock adds a layer of richness that pre-made broths just can't match, it will make your simple chicken noodle soup recipe from scratch really special. This step is simple but it's the key to the best soup you've ever had.

Building Flavor: Sautéed Vegetables and Seasonings for Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch

Alright, so we've got our amazing homemade stock, right? Now it's time to really make this soup sing. Think of sautéing the veggies as the opening act before the main event. It's where we build layers of flavor that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Don't just toss everything in the pot raw; we want to coax out the sweetness and aromas from the veggies. Grab a large pot or Dutch oven, the same one you used for the stock is perfect, and set it over medium heat. A little olive oil or butter, whatever floats your boat, and in goes a finely chopped onion. Let it cook until it's soft and translucent, usually about 5 minutes.

Next, add a couple of carrots and celery stalks, diced to about the same size as the onion. This is the classic trio for a reason; they just work so well together. Let those cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and smell amazing. Now, for the fun part, the seasonings! We’re keeping it simple, but impactful. A teaspoon of dried thyme and half a teaspoon of dried rosemary will add a warm, earthy note. A clove or two of minced garlic, because garlic makes everything better, right? Don't add the garlic too early, or it will burn. Cook it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This is where the magic happens, the aromas will start to fill your kitchen and you’ll know you are on the right path to a killer simple chicken noodle soup recipe from scratch.

Don't rush this step; each minute of sautéing builds flavor. The veggies should be tender, not mushy, and the seasonings should be fragrant. This is the foundation of your soup, and the better you treat these ingredients, the better your final soup will be. Think of each ingredient like a musician in an orchestra, each playing their own part to create a beautiful symphony of flavor. We're not just making a soup, we're crafting an experience. And it all starts with the sautéed veggies and seasonings.

Cooking It All: Noodles, Chicken, and Finishing Touches for Simple Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Adding the Broth and Noodles

the veggies are singing, the kitchen smells amazing, now it's time to bring it all together. Pour that beautiful, strained chicken stock we made earlier into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Turn up the heat to medium-high and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic starts to happen. Now, let's talk noodles. You have options here, my friend. Egg noodles are classic, of course, but you can use whatever you like. Wide or thin, it's your call. I usually go for about 8 ounces of egg noodles for this recipe. Add them to the simmering broth and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until they're tender but still have a little bite.

Keep an eye on those noodles; nobody likes a mushy mess. While the noodles are cooking, it's a good time to give the broth a little taste. Does it need a bit more salt? A pinch of pepper? Now's the time to tweak it to your liking. Remember, seasoning is like adding the final brushstrokes to a painting; it makes all the difference. Once the noodles are cooked to perfection, we are almost there. We are so close to having our simple chicken noodle soup recipe from scratch ready to be devoured.

Finishing with Chicken and Fresh Herbs

Alright, now that the noodles are done, it's time to add the star of the show: that beautiful rotisserie chicken we pulled apart earlier. Gently stir the shredded chicken into the soup. Let it warm through for a few minutes. We're not trying to cook it again, just get it nice and heated. Right before serving, stir in a handful of fresh herbs. Parsley and dill are great options, but you can use whatever you have on hand. Fresh herbs add a burst of brightness and freshness that elevates the entire dish. It's like adding a little sunshine to your soup.

Give it a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. And that’s it! You’ve made an amazing simple chicken noodle soup recipe from scratch. It was so much easier than you thought, right? You now have a bowl of homemade comfort that's ready to be enjoyed. It's time to ladle it into bowls and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

• Rotisserie Chicken: Tender, pre-cooked protein
• Fresh Parsley or Dill: Bright, fresh flavors
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste

Serving and Storage: Tips for Enjoying Your Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch

Serving Suggestions: Ready to Enjoy

so you've just created this amazing pot of simple chicken noodle soup from scratch, and now the big question is, how do you serve it up? Well, first things first, grab your favorite bowls. I mean, we eat with our eyes first, right? A nice big bowl just makes the experience that much better. Ladle that glorious soup in, making sure you get a good mix of noodles, veggies, and chicken. Now, for the final touches, a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top is always a good idea, it will bring a bit of brightness and make it look like you really know what you're doing. And if you're feeling extra fancy, a little swirl of cream or a dollop of sour cream can add a touch of richness. Serve it up with a side of crusty bread or some saltine crackers, and you’ve got yourself a meal that's perfect for a cozy night in, or any time you need a little comfort.

Don't forget about the presentation. It's the little things that make a difference. A clean bowl, a nice spoon, and a garnish of fresh herbs can elevate the whole experience. And if you're serving it to guests, why not set out a little bowl of extra herbs or a small dish of croutons so they can customize their own bowl. It’s like letting them add their own artistic touch to your masterpiece. It's all about creating a moment, not just a meal. Now, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. You’ve just made a batch of simple chicken noodle soup from scratch that's sure to impress.

Storage and Reheating: Keeping the Goodness Going

Now, let's talk about what happens after the meal. If you’re like me, you probably made a big batch of this simple chicken noodle soup from scratch. Luckily, it stores really well. The key to keeping it fresh is to let it cool completely before you store it. Once it's cooled, transfer it to airtight containers. Glass containers are great, but plastic ones work too. Just make sure they have a good seal to prevent any leakage and keep the soup fresh. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be aware that the noodles might soak up some of the broth as they sit, so the soup may be a little thicker when you go to reheat it.

If you want to keep your soup longer, freezing is the way to go. Again, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Be sure to leave a little space at the top of the container as the liquid expands when it freezes. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If the soup is too thick, add a little extra chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency. Now, you have a stash of homemade comfort ready whenever you need it.

Wrapping Up Your Simple Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch Journey

And there you have it – a comforting, flavorful bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, made entirely from scratch. You've seen that creating this classic dish isn't some daunting task, but rather a straightforward process that rewards you with incredible flavor. From making the stock to adding the final touches, each step contributes to a soup that's far superior to anything you'd find in a can. Whether you're feeling under the weather or just craving a taste of home, this simple chicken noodle soup recipe from scratch is your go-to solution. So, go ahead, share your creation, and enjoy the satisfying warmth of your own homemade soup. And hey, you’re basically a soup master now, so what are you waiting for? Go make another batch!