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If you’re craving something comforting, nourishing, and downright delicious, you’ve just found your new favorite: this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is pure magic in a bowl. It brings together tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a vibrant mix of sautéed vegetables swimming in a savory broth infused with fresh dill and garlic. Whether you’re fighting a cold, need a soul-soothing dinner after a long day, or want to impress company with a classic dish done right, this recipe is foolproof, flavorful, and unbelievably satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this soup couldn’t be simpler, and each one plays a key role in building layers of taste and texture. From the rich chicken broth to the fresh dill that brightens every spoonful, these essentials come together like old friends to create something truly special.
- 4 chicken thighs (skins removed, bone-in or boneless): These give your soup hearty flavor and tender protein that shreds beautifully.
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended): The savory liquid base is crucial for that comforting soup essence without overpowering saltiness.
- 6 cups water: Balances the broth for a lighter texture and perfect cooking environment for the pasta and chicken.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and celery, adding subtle richness and depth.
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped): Brings natural sweetness and aromatic foundation to the soup.
- 2 medium celery sticks (finely chopped): Adds a gentle crunch and fresh vegetal note that complements the other veggies.
- 2 carrots (sliced into rings): Their slight sweetness and vibrant color brighten the bowl delightfully.
- 6 oz rotini pasta: The twisty shape holds broth well, giving every bite that comforting, noodly goodness.
- 3 Tbsp fresh or frozen dill: This herb lifts the soup with its fresh, slightly tangy flavor—don’t skip it!
- 1 tsp Mrs. Dash (or your favorite salt-free seasoning): Brings a balanced hint of herbs and spices without extra salt.
- 1 Tbsp sea salt (or to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the soup’s flavors.
- 1 garlic clove (pressed): Adds a warm, subtle kick that rounds off the flavor profile beautifully.
How to Make Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Build the Broth and Poach the Chicken
Start by combining 6 cups of water with 8 cups of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of sea salt in a large soup pot. Bring this mixture to a boil, then gently add your chicken thighs. Partially cover and let them poach for about 20 minutes, skimming off any foam that rises to keep your broth clear and clean-tasting. This step infuses the broth with rich chicken flavor, setting the stage for a soup that feels homemade and hearty.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the chicken cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and celery, sautéing until they become tender and fragrant. This adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s base. Once softened, transfer these gorgeous aromatics straight into the simmering broth, where their flavors will mingle and enhance the overall taste.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Carrots
Next, stir in the rotini pasta and the sliced carrot rings. Let everything continue cooking at a gentle boil for around 15 minutes, or until the pasta turns perfectly tender but not mushy. The carrots soften just enough to be tender but still add a bit of bite and color. This step brings a pleasing texture contrast that makes every spoonful exciting.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the pot and let them cool just enough to handle. Using two forks or your hands, shred the chicken, discarding bones and any residual fat. The shredded chicken has a wonderful pull-apart texture that absorbs broth and melds with the noodles. Return it to the soup pot and give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Step 5: Season and Finish With Fresh Dill
To finish, season the soup with 1 teaspoon of Mrs. Dash or your preferred salt-free seasoning to introduce an extra layer of savory warmth without overwhelming salt. Adjust salt to taste, then press in one garlic clove for a subtle hit of garlic flavor. Finally, stir in 3 tablespoons of fresh or frozen dill, which adds brightness and a lightly herbal freshness. Remove from heat and prepare to savor every spoonful of this lovingly crafted Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes can elevate your soup from comforting to restaurant-worthy. Try a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra dill for verdant color and brightness. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top just before serving brings a delightful zesty contrast that wakes up the flavors beautifully. For a little richness, a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of crème fraîche can be heavenly, especially on cooler days.
Side Dishes
Pairing your chicken noodle soup with complementary sides turns it into a nourishing meal. Warm, crusty bread is a classic—perfect for dipping into that savory broth. Crisp garden salads or roasted vegetables offer a fresh, textural counterpoint that balances the softness of the soup. For something heartier, grilled cheese sandwiches or garlic knots cozy up alongside this dish amazingly well.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or simply want to make the meal feel extra special, serve the soup in individual rustic bowls or mini bread bowls for a charming presentation. Adding a few drops of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will jazz it up with a subtle heat for adventurous palates. You can also layer in colorful veggies like sweet corn or peas for a playful twist on the classic recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor. As the noodles absorb more liquid over time, you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to revive that perfect soup consistency.
Freezing
Freezing chicken noodle soup can be a bit tricky due to the pasta, which tends to get mushy. To freeze successfully, consider storing the broth and shredded chicken separately from the cooked pasta. Freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and combine, adding fresh pasta if you’d like to maintain better texture.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally and add a little broth or water if it feels too thick. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it can unevenly heat the soup, causing the pasta to break down quicker. Enjoy the comforting flavors as though it were freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more flavor and stay moist, chicken breasts work fine if you prefer leaner meat. Just watch the cooking time closely so they don’t dry out during poaching.
What’s the best pasta for this soup?
Rotini is excellent because of its twists that catch broth well, but other small pasta shapes like egg noodles, ditalini, or orzo also work beautifully depending on what you have on hand.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, replace the chicken and broth with vegetable broth and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu for protein. Keep the seasoning and veggies the same for a delicious meat-free alternative.
Is it better to use fresh or dried dill?
Fresh dill offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor that really lifts the soup, but frozen dill is a fine substitute that still contributes lovely herbal notes. Dried dill tends to be too strong and less fresh, so it’s less ideal here.
How can I make the soup more filling?
Adding extra vegetables like potatoes, peas, or corn can bulk it up, or stirring in beans or lentils adds protein and fiber for a heartier meal that still feels light and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the warmth and comfort of a bowl of homemade chicken soup, and this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe delivers exactly that with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and nourishes your soul, perfect for every season and occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your go-to recipe for cozy days and well-deserved self-care meals.
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Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup recipe offers a warm, comforting classic made from scratch using simple ingredients. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful broth with fresh vegetables, rotini pasta, and aromatic dill create a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- 6 cups water
- 1 Tbsp sea salt (or to taste)
Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs (skins removed, bone-in or boneless)
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 medium celery sticks (finely chopped)
- 2 carrots (sliced into rings)
- 1 garlic clove (pressed)
- 3 Tbsp fresh or frozen dill
- 1 tsp Mrs. Dash or your favorite salt-free seasoning
Pasta
- 6 oz rotini pasta
Cooking Fat
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
Instructions
- Prepare Broth and Cook Chicken: In a large soup pot, combine 6 cups of water, 8 cups of chicken broth, and 1 tablespoon of sea salt. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the chicken thighs, partially cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to keep the broth clear.
- Sauté Vegetables: While the chicken cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and celery, sautéing until they become soft and translucent. Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the soup pot with the broth.
- Add Pasta and Carrots: Add the sliced carrots and 6 ounces of rotini pasta to the soup pot. Reduce heat to maintain a low boil and cook for 15 minutes or until the pasta reaches your desired tenderness.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred the meat using forks or your hands, discarding bones and any excess fat. Return the shredded chicken to the soup pot.
- Season and Finish: Season the soup with 1 teaspoon of Mrs. Dash or your preferred salt-free seasoning, adjust salt to taste, and press in the garlic clove. Stir in 3 tablespoons of fresh or frozen dill. Remove the pot from heat and serve hot.
Notes
- Using low sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the soup better.
- Bone-in chicken thighs add extra flavor, but boneless can be used for convenience.
- You can substitute rotini pasta with other short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells.
- For a quicker version, use pre-cooked shredded chicken and reduce cooking time accordingly.
- Fresh dill enhances the flavor, but frozen dill works well if fresh is unavailable.
- Skimming foam during boiling helps achieve a clear, clean broth.
