Chef John’s Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup: A Heartwarming Classic

Chef John’s Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting, soul-warming dish that’s both simple and flavorful. Featuring a rich homemade roasted chicken stock, tender chicken, and soft egg noodles, this soup is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a little extra comfort, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Quick Benefits

• Homemade Broth: The key to this soup’s rich flavor is the homemade roasted chicken broth, which adds depth and a savory taste.
• High in Protein: With chicken as a primary ingredient, this soup provides a healthy amount of protein to help keep you full and satisfied.
• Comforting and Simple: This soup is easy to prepare, making it the perfect dish when you need something quick and comforting.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning and ingredients based on your preferences.

Essential Ingredients

• Butter (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté the vegetables and add richness to the soup base.
• Carrot (½ cup diced): Provides natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• Onion (½ cup diced): Adds a savory base flavor to the soup.
• Celery (½ cup diced): Complements the onion and carrot with its fresh, crisp taste.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves (¼ teaspoon): Adds a fragrant, earthy flavor to the soup.
• Salt (1 pinch, plus more to taste): Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
• Chicken Fat (2 tablespoons melted): Adds depth of flavor and richness.
• Roasted Chicken Broth (2 quarts): The key ingredient that gives the soup its delicious, hearty base.
• Uncooked Wide Egg Noodles (4 ounces): Provides the classic noodle texture that makes chicken noodle soup so comforting.
• Cooked Boneless Chicken Breast (2 halves, cubed): Adds lean protein and tender texture to the soup.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional, pinch): Adds a touch of heat, optional for those who like a little spice.
• Black Pepper (to taste): For additional seasoning.

Preparation Steps

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced carrot, onion, celery, thyme, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent, about 5 to 6 minutes.
2. Add Chicken Fat and Broth: Stir in the melted chicken fat and then pour in the roasted chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Cook the Noodles: Stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Chicken: Add the cubed cooked chicken breast to the soup. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
5. Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper as needed.
6. Serve: Serve the soup hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Health Benefits

• Protein-Packed: This soup is a great source of lean protein from the chicken, which helps in muscle repair and provides energy.
• High in Fiber: The vegetables, especially the carrot and celery, offer a good amount of dietary fiber, supporting digestion and gut health.
• Nourishing: The homemade chicken broth is rich in collagen and amino acids, making it great for joint and skin health.
• Low in Calories: At only 149 calories per serving, this soup is a light yet filling meal.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Bread: Serve the soup with a warm, crusty loaf of bread or a slice of sourdough for dipping.
• Alongside a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle a little fresh parsley or thyme on top for extra flavor and a pop of color.
• For Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for added richness.

Creative Variations

• Add Vegetables: Customize the soup by adding other vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes to make it more hearty and colorful.
• Use Different Noodles: Try other types of noodles, such as egg noodles, fusilli, or even gluten-free noodles for a variation.
• Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add more cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeños for a spicy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, and it will make a great meal for later.
• Freeze: If you want to keep the soup for a longer period, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. When reheating, the noodles may soften, so it’s best to store them separately if you plan to freeze the soup.
• Reheat: To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Pro Tips

• Use Homemade Broth: For the best flavor, try making your own roasted chicken broth (as Chef John suggests). It adds a depth of flavor that store-bought broth can’t match.
• Cook the Noodles Separately: If you plan to have leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately. This prevents them from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy over time.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking, as the broth and vegetables may already add a lot of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought chicken broth?
Yes, you can use store-bought chicken broth, but homemade roasted chicken broth adds a richer, deeper flavor. If using store-bought broth, you may want to adjust the seasoning.

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use raw chicken, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the soup. If using raw chicken, add it earlier in the cooking process so it has time to cook through.

Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the noodles may soften when stored, so consider cooking them separately if you plan to freeze the soup.

How can I make this soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can add a slurry made from cornstarch and water, or cook the soup down to reduce the liquid slightly. Alternatively, blend a small portion of the soup and return it to the pot to create a creamier texture.

Chef John’s Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick and nourishing meal. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a warm bowl of soup, this recipe will hit the spot every time.

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