Ret Soup
Introduction
Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. With its rich broth and tender pieces of chicken combined with fresh vegetables and egg noodles, this homemade soup is sure to soothe and delight, making it the perfect choice for cozy nights in or chilly winter days. Simple ingredients come together to create a meal that nourishes both the body and soul.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
30ml olive oil
150g onion, chopped
100g carrots, sliced
100g celery, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1.4 liters chicken broth
300g egg noodles
200g frozen peas
15g fresh parsley, chopped
5g dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 30ml of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 150g of chopped onion, 100g of sliced carrots, and 100g of sliced celery. Sauté these vegetables until they are softened, approximately 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Incorporate Chicken Broth and Chicken
Pour in 1.4 liters of chicken broth. Add 500g of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 5g of dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken and return it back into the broth.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles and Peas
Add 300g of egg noodles and 200g of frozen peas to the pot. Simmer the soup until the noodles are tender, about 10 minutes.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaves from the pot and discard them. Just before serving, stir in 15g of chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup can last for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This soup can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months, but the noodles may become softer upon reheating.
Customizations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, green beans, or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerating
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
If you want to store the soup for a longer period, you can freeze it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It is best consumed within 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your hearty chicken noodle soup with crusty bread or warm rolls for dipping. A simple side salad can also complement the soup well. For added flavor, offer grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on the side for guests to customize their bowls.
Nutritional Information
– Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Dietary Fiber: 4g
– Sugars: 5g
– Total Fat: 10g
– Saturated Fat: 1.5g
– Sodium: 600mg
*Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Chicken: You can use cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or substitute with turkey or tofu for a different flavor profile.
– Vegetables: Feel free to swap carrots and celery for any variety of fresh or frozen vegetables like bell peppers or green beans.
– Broth: Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
– Noodles: Substitute egg noodles with whole wheat noodles, rice noodles, or gluten-free noodles if needed.
– Herbs: Fresh thyme can replace dried thyme, and you can add oregano or rosemary for a different aromatic touch.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a technique used to cook vegetables quickly in a small amount of oil over medium to high heat. This method enhances the flavor and texture of the onions, carrots, and celery in the soup.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a low temperature. This technique allows the chicken to become tender while infusing the broth with flavor from the herbs and vegetables.
Shredding
Shredding the cooked chicken with two forks helps break it down into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to incorporate into the soup for a comforting texture.
Cooking Noodles
Cooking the egg noodles in the broth allows them to absorb the flavors of the soup while ensuring they stay tender and maintain their structure.
Finishing with Fresh Herbs
Adding fresh parsley just before serving brightens the flavor of the soup and adds a touch of color, enhancing the overall presentation and freshness.
FAQ
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other types such as whole wheat pasta, rice noodles, or gluten-free options. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make the soup richer?
To make the soup richer, consider adding more chicken broth or incorporating a splash of cream before serving for a creamier texture.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Definitely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and add fresh noodles if desired.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can add herbs like rosemary or dill, a splash of lemon juice, or a dash of hot sauce for an added kick to enhance the flavor profile of the soup.
Is it possible to freeze chicken noodle soup?
Yes, you can freeze chicken noodle soup. However, it’s best to freeze it without the noodles as they may become mushy upon reheating. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This hearty chicken noodle soup is a quintessential comfort dish that not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in. Easy to prepare, this soup brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and satisfying noodles, making it a staple in any kitchen.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Chicken Noodle Soup
Add more vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans to enhance the nutritional profile and flavor.
Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
Incorporate a tablespoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that adds warmth and depth.
Asian-Inspired Chicken Noodle Soup
Use rice noodles instead of egg noodles and flavor the broth with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian twist.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a rich, creamy version of the classic soup.
Lemon Herb Chicken Noodle Soup
Add fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for a zesty flavor boost, along with a sprinkle of dill or basil for freshness.
Chicken and Rice Soup
Replace the egg noodles with cooked rice for a different texture while keeping the comforting essence of traditional chicken soup.
