Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Balanced Lifestyle Recipes
This Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish, perfect for soothing the soul and boosting your health.
This soup is not just a dish; it's a warm embrace in a bowl. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and wholesome noodles, it’s the ultimate comfort food that also provides healing properties.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Aromatic herbs that enhance the flavor profile
- Nutrient-rich ingredients to boost your health
- Perfect for cold days or when you're feeling under the weather
The Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is often hailed as a classic comfort food, but it also comes with numerous health benefits. Packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and chicken, this soup can help support your immune system. The combination of chicken broth and warm noodles creates a soothing effect, making it an ideal choice when you're feeling under the weather. The warmth of the soup can alleviate cold symptoms, while the protein from the chicken aids in recovery.
This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can add or substitute vegetables based on what you have available, making it a great way to use up leftover ingredients. Spinach, peas, or even corn can be excellent additions for an extra nutritional boost. The egg noodles provide carbohydrates that offer lasting energy, making this soup not only healing but also satisfying.
Aromatic Herbs and Spices
The aromatic herbs used in this Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup play a significant role in its flavor and health benefits. Thyme is known for its antimicrobial properties and can help ease respiratory issues, making it a perfect addition during cold season. Garlic, another key ingredient, is celebrated for its immune-boosting properties and can also help in reducing inflammation.
Bay leaves contribute a unique depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste experience. As the soup simmers, these herbs infuse their goodness into the broth, creating a deliciously aromatic dish that not only warms your body but also lifts your spirits. This combination of herbs makes the soup not just a meal, but a nurturing experience.
Perfect Pairings
While the Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup is delightful on its own, pairing it with some crusty bread or a light salad can elevate your dining experience. A slice of homemade garlic bread or a simple mixed greens salad can complement the rich flavors of the soup beautifully. These pairings provide a balance of textures and flavors, ensuring that every bite is enjoyable.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your bowl. This can enhance the warmth and make your soup even more satisfying. Whether you're serving it for lunch or dinner, these pairings will make your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Ensure to season according to your taste preferences.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add Garlic and Herbs
Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Pour in the Broth
Add chicken broth to the pot, bringing it to a boil.
Add Chicken and Noodles
Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this healing soup!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, storing your Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When freezing, consider portioning it out into meal-sized containers for easy access later.
When you're ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is straightforward. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then heat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to maintain the soup's consistency, especially if it thickens during storage.
Customization Ideas
This Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup is highly customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can easily swap out egg noodles for zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta. This change not only reduces carbs but also adds extra nutrients from the vegetables.
For a heartier soup, consider adding beans or lentils, which provide additional protein and fiber. If you're in the mood for a twist, try incorporating Asian flavors by adding ginger and using rice noodles instead. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a soup that is both nourishing and uniquely yours.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free noodles to make the soup gluten-free.
→ How long does this soup last in the fridge?
It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it, but for best results, add the noodles fresh when reheating.
Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup
This Ultimate Healing Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish, perfect for soothing the soul and boosting your health.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Balanced Lifestyle Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add chicken broth to the pot, bringing it to a boil.
Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g