Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that has been cherished for generations. Whether you're sick or just looking to unwind after a long day, this warm and hearty dish provides the perfect remedy. This homemade version of chicken noodle soup will leave your taste buds craving more. Let's dive into how to prepare this delightful meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 generous portions

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
• 3 quarts of water
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced into chunks
• 4 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 6 cups of chicken broth (store-bought or homemade)
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of salt (optional)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• Noodles (egg noodles, gluten-free noodles, etc.) for serving
• Lemon slices and fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

Begin by preparing the chicken. If your chicken is still in its packaging, remove it from the bones and discard the skin. Set aside the meat while you prepare the broth.

1. Place a large pot on medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add onions, carrots, celery, minced garlic, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir until the vegetables are soft but not browned.
2. Add the reserved chicken meat back into the pot along with enough water (about four quarts) to cover the ingredients. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat and simmering for about an hour.
3. While the soup is cooking, prepare your potatoes by peeling them and cutting them into bite-sized cubes. Once the vegetables have been boiling in the chicken broth for at least 30 minutes, add the potatoes. Continue simmering until the meat and vegetables are fully cooked (about another 25-30 minutes).
4. Check the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. It’s important to taste this as everyone's preference varies slightly.
5. To make sure you have enough chicken for serving, shred or cut the meat into chunks once it has been fully cooked. Carefully remove any bay leaves before proceeding further.

Serving Suggestions

Once your homemade chicken noodle soup is ready, it’s time to serve. Ladle each portion into a warm bowl and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for extra flavor. Serve with egg noodles or gluten-free noodles for the best texture.

• Egg Noodles: Add some extra richness by using regular flour-based egg noodles if you're not following a gluten-free diet.
• Gluten-Free Noodles: For those who prefer to avoid wheat, there are several brands offering delicious gluten-free pasta options that work wonderfully in this soup recipe. Just make sure they’re labeled as suitable for simmering in liquid without becoming mushy.
• Lemon slices can provide a refreshing burst of citrusy flavor, complementing the savory base perfectly.

Homemade chicken noodle soup is not just about its rich and comforting taste; it also offers numerous health benefits. Packed with vitamins such as vitamin C from the onions and carrots, along with protein found in the chicken meat, this dish nourishes your body effectively. If you're feeling unwell or simply want something soothing for dinner, homemade chicken noodle soup is an excellent choice.

Storage Tips

If you have extra portions that you won't consume immediately, storing it properly ensures its quality remains high even after refrigeration or freezing. Cool the soup completely before placing it in airtight containers and storing them in your refrigerator for up to four days or freezer-safe bags for up to three months.

1. Ensure all ingredients are well-cooled before adding to storage containers.
2. For optimal texture, consider cooking the noodles separately just before serving rather than pre-mixing with hot soup. This prevents the noodles from becoming overly soft and potentially breaking down when reheated later on.

In conclusion, making homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just a simple recipe; it’s an opportunity to enjoy delicious food while knowing exactly what goes into each bite. By following these straightforward instructions and tips, you can create a bowl of comforting goodness that will bring warmth to any mealtime.