Your entire family will love this easy Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup recipe! This comforting dish is perfect for chilly days, quick family dinners, or when someone needs a bit of TLC. With its rich flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Chicken and Broth
- Vegetables
- Seasonings
- Noodles
- How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Step 1: Combine Ingredients
- Step 2: Boil the Mixture
- Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Step 4: Shred Chicken
- Step 5: Add Seasonings and Noodles
- Step 6: Cook Noodles
- Step 7: Finish Up
- Step 8: Serve
- How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- In a Bread Bowl
- With Fresh Herbs
- On a Cozy Night
- With Crackers
- In Mason Jars
- Accompanied by Grilled Cheese
- How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Reheating Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use rotisserie chicken in my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
- How do I make my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup gluten-free?
- What other vegetables can I add to Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
- How do I store leftover Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Nourishing and Wholesome: Packed with chicken, vegetables, and noodles, it’s a hearty meal that warms the soul.
- Versatile: Easily customize with your favorite veggies or spices for a unique twist each time.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors, making it an ideal choice for family meals.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep; you can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze for later.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious homemade chicken noodle soup, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large stock pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large stock pot or Dutch oven: These pots provide ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly.
- Sharp knife: A good knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are important for achieving the best flavor balance.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your homemade chicken noodle soup:
Chicken and Broth
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
Vegetables
- 4 celery stalks (chopped)
- 4 whole carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 1/2 onion (diced)
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 Bay Leaves
Noodles
- 2 cups Egg noodles
- 2 cup water
How to Make Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, celery, carrots, and onions to a large stock pot or Dutch oven.
Step 2: Boil the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Cook until the chicken is cooked through (it should be completely white) and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. This generally takes about 20-30 minutes depending on the size of the chicken breasts.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot. Shred it using two forks and stir it back into the stock pot.
Step 5: Add Seasonings and Noodles
Stir in thyme leaves, minced garlic, salt, pepper, bay leaves, egg noodles, and water.
Step 6: Cook Noodles
Cook over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Step 7: Finish Up
Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Step 8: Serve
Serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your homemade chicken noodle soup!
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Serving homemade chicken noodle soup is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, here are some creative ways to serve your delicious soup.
In a Bread Bowl
- A bread bowl adds an extra touch of flavor and fun. Hollow out a round loaf of bread and fill it with your homemade chicken noodle soup for a unique serving option.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This simple addition enhances the flavor and makes the dish look even more appealing.
On a Cozy Night
- Serve your soup in pajamas on a chilly evening. Pair it with blankets and warm bread for the ultimate comfort meal while watching your favorite movie.
With Crackers
- Offer crackers on the side for some added crunch. Saltines or buttery crackers complement the soup beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
In Mason Jars
- For a rustic touch, serve individual portions of your soup in mason jars. This is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, allowing guests to enjoy their soup on the go.
Accompanied by Grilled Cheese
- Pairing with grilled cheese sandwiches creates a classic combination. The gooey cheese and crispy bread make for a comforting side that compliments the soup perfectly.

How to Perfect Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
To create the best homemade chicken noodle soup, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your flavor and texture.
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Use quality broth: Choosing high-quality chicken broth makes a significant difference in taste. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought works well too.
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Don’t rush the cooking time: Allowing the chicken to cook thoroughly ensures it’s tender and easy to shred, which adds to the overall texture of your soup.
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Customize veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn to personalize your soup and increase its nutritional value.
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Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a well-balanced flavor profile.
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Cook noodles separately: For best results, consider cooking egg noodles separately. This prevents them from becoming mushy if you plan on storing leftovers.
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Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Complementing your homemade chicken noodle soup with tasty side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:
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Garlic Bread – The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the soup and is great for dipping.
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Caesar Salad – A fresh Caesar salad brings a crisp contrast to the warm soup, adding crunch along with romaine lettuce and creamy dressing.
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Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness that balances out savory soups wonderfully; they’re also easy to make!
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Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal while enhancing flavors through caramelization.
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Stuffed Peppers – These hearty stuffed peppers can be filled with rice, beans, or ground meat, complementing the lightness of chicken noodle soup.
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Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad offers natural sweetness that cleanses the palate between bites of rich chicken noodle soup.
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Potato Chips – A simple yet satisfying crunch comes from potato chips; they add texture without overshadowing the flavors of the soup.
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Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw provides a tangy crunch that pairs beautifully with warm soups, making it an excellent side choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade chicken noodle soup can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the broth: Using water instead of chicken broth will diminish the flavor. Always opt for a good-quality broth for depth.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and remove it promptly.
- Not seasoning properly: A bland soup is disappointing. Taste and adjust your seasonings throughout the cooking process to enhance flavors.
- Adding noodles too early: If you add noodles too soon, they’ll become mushy. Wait until the chicken is cooked before adding them for the best texture.
- Ignoring vegetables’ sizes: Cutting vegetables in uneven sizes affects cooking time. Chop them uniformly to ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store homemade chicken noodle soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Freeze soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about homemade chicken noodle soup that could help you get it just right.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken can save time and add flavor. Just shred it and add it towards the end of cooking.
How do I make my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free egg noodles or substitute with rice. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What other vegetables can I add to Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
Feel free to add peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and color.
How do I store leftover Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freeze them for later use.
Final Thoughts
This homemade chicken noodle soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or a comforting lunch. Its versatility allows you to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of joy!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty egg noodles in a savory broth, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when someone needs a little extra TLC. In just 20 minutes, you can prepare a nourishing meal that the whole family will love. Customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours, and store leftovers for a quick meal later. With its wholesome ingredients and delightful flavor, this homemade chicken noodle soup will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 4 celery stalks (chopped)
- 4 whole carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 1/2 onion (diced)
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 2 cup water
Instructions
- In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken breasts, chicken broth, celery, carrots, and onion.
- Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Cook until chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F), about 20-30 minutes.
- Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and return it to the pot.
- Stir in thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, bay leaves, egg noodles, and water.
- Cook over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg