Awesome Chicken Noodle Soup

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There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup on a chilly day.

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Awesome Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep
20 min
Cook
2 hr 15 min
Total
2 hr 35 min
Servings
12

Method

  1. Place the chicken in a large stockpot and add water.

  2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

  3. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 minutes, skimming any fat that rises to the surface.

  4. Add whole carrots, whole celery, half an onion, lemongrass, bay leaves, and peppercorns to the pot.

  5. Cover the pot and simmer for 1 hour, or until the chicken is no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear.

  6. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of the thickest part of the thigh, near the bone. It should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).

  7. Transfer the chicken to a platter and let it cool.

  8. Strain the stock, discarding the solids.

  9. Return the strained stock to the pot and set it over high heat.

  10. Stir in sliced carrots, sliced celery (excluding the leaves), and chicken base.

  11. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and simmer until the carrots are tender, approximately 20 minutes.

  12. Remove and discard the skin from the cooled chicken, then chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.

  13. Add noodles and celery leaves to the pot and simmer until the noodles are tender yet firm, about 10 minutes.

  14. Stir

About this recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup on a chilly day. The comforting aroma, the tender chicken, and the hearty noodles all come together to create a dish that warms both the body and the soul.

The Secret Ingredient

What makes this chicken noodle soup so awesome? Well, the secret lies in the homemade broth. Instead of using store-bought broth, we make our own by simmering chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs for hours. This slow cooking process extracts all the flavors and nutrients, resulting in a rich and flavorful broth that forms the base of our soup.

The Perfect Balance

But a great soup is more than just a good broth. It's about finding the perfect balance of ingredients. We start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil. This adds a depth of flavor to the soup and creates a delicious foundation for the other ingredients.

Next, we add in the chicken, which has been cooked and shredded beforehand. This ensures that the chicken is tender and juicy, adding substance to each spoonful. And of course, what would chicken noodle soup be without the noodles? We use thick, egg noodles that hold up well in the soup and provide a comforting chewiness.

A Burst of Freshness

To elevate the flavors even further, we add a handful of fresh herbs. The bright green parsley and earthy thyme add a burst of freshness and complexity to the soup. And don't forget the garlic! A few cloves of minced garlic bring a subtle warmth and depth that ties everything together.

Once everything is in the pot, we let it simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together. The result is a soup that is greater than the sum of its parts. Each spoonful is a symphony of flavors and textures, warm and comforting like a hug from a loved one.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use store-bought broth instead of making my own?

While using store-bought broth is convenient, making your own broth adds a depth of flavor that is hard to replicate. If you have the time, we highly recommend making your own broth for the best results.

. Can I use a different type of noodle?

Of course! You can use any type of noodle you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different noodles may require different cooking times.

. Can I freeze the leftover soup?

Absolutely! Chicken noodle soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and freeze individual portions for later. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

. How long does the soup keep in the fridge?

The soup will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the soup. Just keep in mind that some vegetables may require longer cooking times, so adjust accordingly.

. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply follow the same steps, but instead of simmering on the stovetop, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this soup. Just shred the chicken and add it when indicated in the recipe.

. Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies or tofu for added protein.

In conclusion, chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that never fails to warm the heart and soul. With its homemade broth, balanced ingredients, and burst of freshness, this awesome chicken noodle soup will become a family favorite in no time. So grab a bowl, cozy up, and let the flavors take you on a comforting journey.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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