Warm, soothing, and packed with nutrients, chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. And the best part? It's easy to make from scratch! With this recipe, you can whip up a steaming bowl of deliciousness in no time. And bonus: one serving (100g) of this homemade chicken noodle soup only has 53 calories, making it a healthy option for lunch or dinner.

Chicken noodle soup is not only low in calories, it's also high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. The chicken broth provides a good source of protein and collagen, while the vegetables add plenty of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A and C. The noodles provide carbohydrates for energy and the herbs and spices used in the recipe have anti-inflammatory properties that can boost your immune system.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at how to make chicken noodle soup from scratch, and tips for making it creamy, adding protein, storing leftovers, and adapting the recipe for dietary needs. We'll also explore the health benefits of this classic soup.

The Importance of Chicken Broth

Chicken broth is the foundation of a good chicken noodle soup. It is made by simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and spices in water for several hours. It provides a rich, savory flavor to the soup, and is a good source of protein and collagen. If you don't want to make your own chicken broth, you can use store-bought chicken stock. However, homemade broth is healthier and tastier because it doesn't contain added salt or preservatives. If you're short on time, you can also use bouillon cubes or powder to make a quick broth. To make chicken broth, simply place chicken bones, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and spices like bay leaves, peppercorns, and thyme in a large pot. Cover with water and simmer for at least 4 hours, or until the broth is rich and flavorful.

How to Make the Perfect Noodle Consistency

One of the main components of chicken noodle soup is, of course, the noodles. But have you ever had soup with noodles that were overcooked, soggy or mushy? It's not a pleasant experience. To get perfectly cooked noodles, it's important to pay attention to the cooking time and the type of noodles you use. Choose a noodle shape and size that you like, and cook it separately from the soup. Follow the instructions on the package to cook the noodles al dente (which means they are still firm to the bite). Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help prevent the noodles from turning mushy when you add them to the soup. When you're ready to add the noodles to the soup, make sure the soup is hot and simmering. Add the noodles to the pot and heat them through for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the noodles absorb some of the soup's flavor and ensure that they are evenly cooked.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

A good chicken noodle soup is loaded with flavorful and nutritious vegetables. Some of the best vegetables to add to your soup include carrots, celery, onions, garlic, and leeks. These vegetables are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and add a lot of depth of flavor to the soup. To add even more flavor, consider using a combination of fresh and dried herbs like thyme, parsley, and bay leaves. These herbs have anti-inflammatory properties and can give the soup a boost of nutrition. When chopping your vegetables, try to keep them uniform in size. This will help them cook evenly in the soup. And don't forget to remove the skin and any tough parts from your vegetables before adding them to the soup.

Adding Herbs and Spices for Flavor

Herbs and spices are the secret ingredients that give chicken noodle soup its signature flavor. Some classic herbs and spices to use in your soup include bay leaves, thyme, parsley, and black pepper. These herbs not only add flavor but also have anti-inflammatory properties that can boost your immune system. If you want to add a little heat to your soup, you can also use spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili flakes. If you prefer a more savory and aromatic soup, try adding dried mushrooms, soy sauce, or Worcestershire sauce. Keep in mind that a little goes a long way when it comes to herbs and spices. Be careful not to overpower the soup with too much seasoning.

Tips for Making the Soup Creamy

If you prefer a creamier chicken noodle soup, there are several ways to achieve this without adding heavy cream or butter. One option is to puree some of the cooked vegetables in a blender or food processor and add the puree back to the soup. This will give the soup a creamy texture without adding extra fat. Another option is to add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the soup just before serving. This will give the soup a tangy and creamy note without adding a lot of calories. Finally, you can also add a small amount of cornstarch or flour to the soup to thicken it up. Mix the cornstarch or flour with a little bit of water first to create a slurry, then add it to the soup and simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

Adding Protein or Carbohydrates

If you want to add some extra protein to your chicken noodle soup, you can add some cooked chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken to the soup. This will also help bulk up the soup and make it more filling. If you're looking to add more carbs to your soup, you can add some cooked rice or quinoa to the soup. This will give the soup a hearty and satisfying quality and make it a complete meal on its own. Just be careful not to add too much protein or carbs to the soup, as this can throw off the balance of the recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Chicken noodle soup is a great meal prep option because it stores well in the fridge or freezer. To store your leftovers, let the soup cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat the soup, you can do so on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. If the soup is too thick or has lost some of its liquid, you can add a little bit of water or chicken broth to thin it out. Just be sure to reheat the soup thoroughly and check the temperature with a thermometer to make sure it reaches at least 165°F (73°C) before serving.

Adapting the Recipe for Dietary Restrictions

Chicken noodle soup is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to fit a variety of dietary needs. If you're following a gluten-free diet, make sure to use gluten-free noodles or use rice or quinoa instead. If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, you can omit the noodles entirely and add more vegetables and protein to the soup. You can also use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or noodles. If you're following a vegan or vegetarian diet, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add some tofu or tempeh for extra protein.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a satisfying meal on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of sides to make it a complete meal. Some great side dishes to serve with chicken noodle soup include crusty bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also dress up your soup with some toppings like croutons, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. These toppings not only add flavor but also texture and visual appeal to your soup. Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of herbs, spices, and vegetables to make the soup your own. Chicken noodle soup is a classic recipe, but it's also one that can be personalized and adjusted to suit your taste.

Health Benefits of Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Homemade chicken noodle soup is not only delicious, but it's also packed with health benefits. The chicken broth provides a good source of protein and collagen, which can help support bone health, skin health, and joint health. The vegetables in the soup are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can help support a healthy immune system, digestive system, and cardiovascular system. The herbs and spices used in the recipe also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Overall, chicken noodle soup is a nutrient-dense, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that can provide a lot of health benefits. So why not try making a batch at home and see for yourself?