Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 2: Add Chicken and Broth

Place the chicken pieces directly into the pot with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken stock, making sure the chicken is fully submerged. Add bay leaves and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 30–40 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook and release its savory juices into the broth.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Discard the skin and bones, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. While you do this, keep the broth simmering so the flavors continue to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Add the noodles to the simmering broth and cook according to package instructions (usually 7–10 minutes). Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to soften in the hot soup.

Step 5: Return the Chicken

Once the noodles are nearly done, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir well and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 6: Add Fresh Herbs

Turn off the heat and stir in fresh parsley or dill for a burst of freshness. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic style: Serve the soup hot with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
• Healing boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of chili flakes for extra warmth and vitamin C.
• Make-ahead tip: Store the soup without noodles if you plan to keep it for more than a day. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy—just cook and add noodles fresh when reheating.

Why Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Stands Out

While canned versions exist, homemade chicken noodle soup is on another level. The slow simmer extracts deep flavors from the chicken bones, fresh vegetables bring natural sweetness, and the herbs add layers of aroma you simply can’t replicate in a store-bought version. Beyond taste, it’s a dish that embodies comfort, tradition, and nourishment in every spoonful.

✨ Final Thought: Making chicken noodle soup from scratch is easier than it seems, and the reward is a wholesome, hearty bowl that warms both body and soul. Once you try this method, you may never go back to packaged soup again.

Would you like me to also write a quick 30-minute version of chicken noodle soup for busy days, alongside this traditional one?