There’s something magical about the first sip of hot broth on a cold day that immediate warmth spreading through your chest. This classic chicken noodle soup recipe captures exactly that comfort, the kind that invites a deep, contented sigh. It’s trending for good reason: we all crave that kind of soulful coziness more often.
This nourishing bowl combines tender chicken breast, hearty egg noodles, and fragrant vegetables in a golden, savory broth. Surprisingly simple, it uses pantry staples and a smart mix of herbs that elevate it to something special nostalgic yet refined. Full recipe details below!
After months of testing various herb blends experimenting with thyme, bay leaves, and perfectly-timed parsley I’ve finally found the sweet spot where all the flavors come alive together. Three different families taste-tested this soup, and every one asked for seconds.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This isn’t your average chicken soup it’s the kind that fills the kitchen with comforting aromas and feels like a warm hug in every bite. Dried thyme is key here, releasing earthy notes that deepen the flavor, while the egg noodles soak up the savory broth beautifully.
What sets this classic chicken noodle soup recipe apart is how the vegetables hold their texture the carrots and celery form a flavorful base that gently simmers into every spoonful without becoming mushy or limp.
- Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish
- Minimal ingredients pantry staples and fresh herbs
- Excellent for freezing and enjoying on busy nights

Key Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen
The secret to this beloved chicken noodle soup is balance. Olive oil delivers a gentle richness for sautéing, while garlic and onion create savory depth. Cooked, shredded chicken whether homemade or rotisserie gives tender, satisfying protein without overcooking during the simmer.
Don’t skip the dried thyme it’s the signature flavor note. And for the broth, go with low-sodium or homemade if possible; it gives you more seasoning control and a cleaner taste overall.
| Ingredient | Role in the Soup | Easy Swap |
|---|---|---|
| Egg noodles | Classic texture, absorbs flavors | Wide egg noodles or small shells |
| Dried thyme | Earthy depth, traditional flavor | Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon) |
| Cooked shredded chicken | Protein, tender texture | Rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken |
| Chicken broth | Flavor base, liquid foundation | Low-sodium or homemade broth |
Step-by-Step: How This Soup Comes Together
Start with the traditional mirepoix onions, carrots, and celery sautéed until fragrant and slightly softened. This sets the flavor foundation for the entire dish.
Once the vegetables are tender, the chicken broth goes in along with dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil before gently adding the cooked chicken. Add egg noodles last, cooking for 7–8 minutes just until al dente for the best texture.
- Sauté vegetables first to bring out their natural sweetness
- Boil the broth briefly to infuse with herbs and aromatics
- Stir in noodles at the end, then simmer until tender
Troubleshooting Your Soup Success
If your soup feels flat, it might just need a touch more salt or the brightness of lemon juice. This enhances the balance of herbs and chicken. For softer noodles after reheating, consider cooking them separately next time and adding them fresh to each bowl.
Pro Tip: Cooking noodles separately especially for leftovers preserves their texture and keeps them from soaking up too much broth during storage.
| Issue | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Soup tastes bland | Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of thyme |
| Noodles too soft | Cook noodles separately next time |
| Vegetables too mushy | Cut larger pieces, reduce cooking time |
| Not enough broth | Add hot water or more chicken broth |
Serving and Storage Wisdom
This chicken soup only gets better with time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be aware the noodles will continue to absorb liquid, which can thicken the broth over time.
For reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency. Heat gently on the stovetop to preserve flavor and noodle texture; avoid overheating in the microwave if possible.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months (store noodles separately if possible)
- Reheat slowly with added liquid to refresh the soup
- Pair with toasted bread or crackers for a satisfying meal
Expert Insight on Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Chicken noodle soup is a comfort food staple warm, nourishing, and balanced in nutrition. Building your own broth and using fresh herbs enhances both the flavor and the healing qualities that make this dish such a favorite, especially during colder months or when you’re feeling under the weather.
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Perfecting Our Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Many chilly evenings went into perfecting this classic chicken noodle soup recipe fine-tuning herb blends, adjusting simmer times, and learning patience with layers of flavor. After a few batches of too-soft noodles and over-salted broths, this final version hits that ideal blend of hearty, fresh, and deeply comforting just right for family dinners.
FAQs ( Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe )
How do I make chicken noodle soup more flavorful?
To boost flavor, start by simmering the broth with fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and bay leaves. Sautéing vegetables before adding broth deepens taste. Also, seasoning with salt and pepper gradually while cooking helps balance flavors without overpowering the soup.
Can I use chicken breast in this recipe?
Yes, chicken breast works well and keeps the soup lean. Cook it gently to prevent dryness, either simmering it in the broth or poaching separately before adding. Using breast meat offers a mild flavor that blends nicely with all ingredients in this dish.
What noodles are best for chicken soup?
Egg noodles or thin spaghetti are both excellent choices here. Egg noodles tenderly absorb the broth, while spaghetti offers a lighter texture. Cook noodles separately to maintain their shape and add them to the soup just before serving for perfect consistency.
How long can I store leftover soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to three months. When reheating, add noodles fresh or keep them separate to avoid sogginess.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. Making the soup a day in advance allows flavors to meld beautifully. Store it chilled, then gently reheat on the stove, adding noodles just before serving to keep the meal fresh and satisfying.

Time to Savor Every Spoonful
This classic chicken noodle soup recipe offers exactly what chilly evenings call for pure, soul-warming comfort in just 35 minutes. Dried thyme infuses each spoonful with cozy flavor, while tender noodles and hearty chicken make this a satisfying, nourishing choice.
Feeling creative? Swap egg noodles for shells or orzo, or stir in baby spinach during the final minutes for an extra nutritional boost. A touch of smoked paprika can introduce deep, subtle warmth without distracting from the soup’s familiar profile. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days the flavors deepen and soften, making each reheated bowl feel extra special.
I’d love to hear how this classic dish comes to life in your kitchen! Have a twist or favorite herb combo to share? Let’s keep the comfort-food inspiration flowing because a good bowl of homemade soup always has a story behind it.
PrintClassic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Easy and Delicious
A timeless bowl of comfort featuring tender chicken, egg noodles, and aromatic vegetables in a flavorful broth. This Classic Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a perfect remedy for cold days and a heartwarming meal. Enjoy the traditional chicken noodle soup with fresh vegetables and seasoning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Method: Stovetop
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 3 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 1/2 cups egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
- Add carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in shredded chicken and dried thyme.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add egg noodles and cook for 7-8 minutes or until noodles are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with parsley if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg





