If you are craving a bowl of comfort that warms you from the inside out, this Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked egg noodles and an inviting blend of fresh herbs that elevate every spoonful. The medley of vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices creates a harmony of flavors that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly bright. Whether you’re recovering from a chilly day or simply want a wholesome, nourishing meal, this soup promises satisfaction in every hearty bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to the magic of this soup. Each element plays an important role: fresh herbs add brightness, the chicken provides protein-rich comfort, and the vegetables bring texture and color, making this soup as beautiful as it is delicious.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a rich, fruity base for sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced: Bring a subtle earthiness and vibrant orange color.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Contribute a crisp texture and classic soup aroma.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with irresistible warmth and richness.
- 8 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation for the entire soup.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie or poached chicken for tenderness and convenience.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors harmoniously.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle, peppery kick.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Brings a subtle, woodsy herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary: Offers piney fragrance that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Lifts the soup with bright, grassy freshness.
- 1 bay leaf: Provides a delicate depth and complexity to the broth.
- 6 oz egg noodles: Classic, tender noodles that soak up all the delicious broth.
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional): A splash of citrus to add a lively brightness and balance.
How to Make Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sautéing the Vegetables
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and let them soften gently for about 5 to 7 minutes. This step awakens their natural sweetness while laying the groundwork for rich flavor. Adding minced garlic right after brings a fragrant charm that sets the tone for the rest of the soup.
Step 2: Building the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. It’s important to let this mixture bubble a bit so all the aromas can start mingling and developing depth. Toss in your seasonings: salt, pepper, fresh thyme, rosemary, parsley, and the bay leaf, creating the perfect herby foundation that defines this Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Adding the Chicken and Simmering
Now, stir in the shredded chicken and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to marry beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with savory, aromatic goodness that only fresh ingredients can provide.
Step 4: Cooking the Noodles
Once your broth has developed that cozy richness, add the egg noodles. Cook them for 6 to 8 minutes or until they are tender but still hold just the right amount of bite. Removing the bay leaf now is essential to avoid any overpowering bitterness.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
For an optional but delightful final layer of flavor, stir in the juice of half a lemon. Its bright notes perfectly balance the rich broth and fresh herbs, making every spoonful refreshingly delicious. Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.
How to Serve Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a small pinch of thyme on top adds a pop of color and enhances the herbal aroma. A few twists of fresh black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil can also add extra layers of flavor right before serving.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own, but pairing it with warm, crusty bread or a side salad packed with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette can create a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a simple grilled cheese sandwich also make comforting companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in charming mugs or rustic bowls for a cozy feel. Adding a lemon wedge on the side invites guests to customize their brightness level. For an elegant touch, a swirl of pesto or a few sautéed mushrooms on top can elevate this humble soup to impressive dinner-party fare.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. To maintain the best texture, save the noodles separately and add them fresh when reheating so they don’t become mushy.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this soup on a future chilly evening, freeze it without the noodles. Store the broth and chicken mixture in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before warming gently and cooking fresh noodles.
Reheating
Reheat your soup slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat to keep the chicken tender and broth flavorful. Add the noodles at the end, allowing them to cook directly in the simmering soup until just tender. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can revive the flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and perfect for this recipe, feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, or even gluten-free noodles if needed. Keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
You can swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace shredded chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu. The fresh herbs will still give you that wonderful comforting flavor.
How can I make the soup more flavorful?
Using homemade chicken broth or bone broth can really boost the depth of flavor. Also, don’t be shy about fresh herbs; they truly elevate the soup. A little splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens the entire pot.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken?
The easiest method is to use two forks to pull apart cooked chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut as it’s already tender and flavorful.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Start by sautéing the vegetables on the stovetop, then transfer everything into the slow cooker along with all ingredients except noodles. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add noodles during the last 20-30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to share with loved ones. It’s filled with fresh ingredients that come together in a symphony of flavors you’ll want to revisit time and again. So grab your pot, gather your herbs, and start simmering; your new favorite soup awaits!
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Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This Fresh Herb Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting, homemade classic perfect for cold weather. Packed with tender shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and wholesome vegetables, it’s simmered to perfection on the stovetop for a flavorful, nourishing bowl that’s easy to make and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 bay leaf
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 6 oz egg noodles
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and released their aroma.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in salt, black pepper, fresh thyme, rosemary, parsley, and the bay leaf to infuse the broth with herbaceous flavors.
- Add Chicken and Simmer: Incorporate the cooked shredded chicken into the pot. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook Noodles: Add the egg noodles directly to the soup and cook for 6–8 minutes until tender but not mushy.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Stir in fresh lemon juice if desired to brighten the flavors. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with extra chopped fresh herbs as garnish.
Notes
- This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- If making ahead, cook the noodles separately and add them just before serving to prevent mushiness.
- For extra richness and nutrients, use bone broth instead of regular chicken broth.
