Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic recipe that has been a go-to remedy for colds and flu for decades. This comforting dish is perfect not only for those who want to feel better after being sick but also as a simple, satisfying meal any time of the year.

The key ingredients you'll need are bone-in chicken parts, carrots, celery, onions, chicken broth, noodles, and salt and pepper. The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 45 minutes, and it serves four people.

Ingredients

Bone-in chicken parts - 1-1.5 pounds
Carrots - 3 medium
Celery - 1 large stalk
Onions - 1 large
Chicken broth - 6 cups
Noodles - 8 ounces (any type, such as egg noodles or curly noodles)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Wash your carrots, celery, and onions thoroughly. Peel the carrots, and slice them into thin rounds. Finely chop the celery and onion. Rinse the bone-in chicken parts under cold water.
In a large pot over medium heat, add enough water to cover the chicken parts by about an inch. Bring it to a boil. Skim any foam that rises to the surface, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes.
Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot. You can reserve the cooked chicken parts if you want shredded chicken for the soup later. Once strained, return the broth to high heat and add the chopped vegetables (carrots, celery, and onions). Simmer them until they are tender but not mushy, about 20-30 minutes.
While your veggies cook, prepare your noodles according to package instructions. Drain well when done.
Once the vegetables are cooked and the broth has been simmering for a bit more, it's time to combine everything. Add the noodles back into the pot with the chicken broth and vegetables. Stir in salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture come to a gentle boil.
After the soup boils, add back the cooked chicken parts or shredded chicken if you have it. Cook just long enough for the heat to warm through the chicken without overcooking it (about 5 minutes).

Tips and Variations

You can make this recipe more nutritious by adding other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or green beans. Adding a dash of fresh lemon juice at the end will give your soup an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 450
Fat: About 15g
Protein: Around 30g
Sodium: Depending on salt usage, approximately 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: About 60g (including fiber)

Conclusion

Homemade chicken noodle soup is a delightful and nutritious dish that can be prepared with simple ingredients. Its comforting flavors make it a perfect choice for when you're under the weather or simply looking to enjoy something delicious and satisfying.