Cozy Up with My Go-To Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for When You're Under the Weather

When the sniffles hit or a chill settles in, nothing feels more comforting than a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. This recipe has been my reliable companion through many cold days and restless nights. It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs that come together to soothe and nourish. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a hearty meal, this soup is simple to make and deeply satisfying.

A comforting bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup with fresh rosemary and thyme

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. They combine to create a rich, flavorful broth and a satisfying texture:

• 3 to 4 chicken breasts

• 1 whole yellow onion, diced

• 4 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 to 6 carrots, chopped, diced, or shredded

• 3 tablespoons minced garlic

• Seasonings for chicken and vegetables:

- Onion powder

- Garlic powder

- Smoked paprika

- Garlic and herb seasoning

• Chicken bouillon (optional, for extra flavor)

• 5 tbsp butter

• 64 oz (2 cartons) low sodium chicken broth

• Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs

• 1 pound egg noodles

• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy finish)

  
  

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these steps to make your chicken noodle soup from scratch. The process is straightforward and yields a delicious, comforting meal.

1. Season and Brown the Chicken

   Rub the chicken breasts liberally with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and garlic and herb seasoning. Heat a large pot over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides until golden. This step locks in flavor. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

   
   

2. Sauté the Vegetables

   In the same pot, add the butter, diced onion, chopped celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sprinkle the same seasonings you used on the chicken over the vegetables. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables soften and the aromas fill your kitchen.

   
   

3. Add Broth and Herbs

   Pour in the chicken broth and add fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the browned chicken breasts to the pot.

   
   

4. Simmer the Soup

   Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let the chicken cook in the broth for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked through. If the broth reduces too much, add water to maintain the desired amount of liquid.

   
   

5. Adjust the Flavor

   Remove the chicken breasts and set them aside to cool slightly. Taste the broth and add chicken bouillon if you want a stronger flavor. Remove the herb sprigs before proceeding.

   
   

6. Cook the Noodles and Shred the Chicken

   Add the egg noodles to the simmering broth. While the noodles cook, shred the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces using two forks.

   
   

7. Combine and Finish

   Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Let the soup simmer until the noodles are tender, about 7 to 10 minutes. If you like a creamy touch, stir in the heavy cream at the end and keep the soup on low heat for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

   
   

Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme for a bright, natural flavor that dried herbs can’t match.

• Don’t skip browning the chicken. It adds depth to the broth and improves the overall taste.

• Adjust the seasoning gradually. Taste as you go to avoid over-salting, especially if you add bouillon.

• Choose egg noodles for their perfect texture and ability to soak up the broth without becoming mushy.

• Add heavy cream only if you want a richer soup. It’s optional but adds a lovely smoothness.

  
  

Why This Recipe Works When You’re Feeling Under the Weather

Chicken noodle soup has long been a go-to comfort food during illness. This recipe goes beyond the basics by layering flavors with smoked paprika and fresh herbs, which bring warmth and a subtle complexity. The combination of protein, vegetables, and broth helps keep you hydrated and nourished. Plus, the garlic and onion provide natural immune support, making this soup a gentle ally when your body needs it most.

The creamy finish is optional but can make the soup feel extra soothing, especially on cold days. This recipe is easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.