Savory One-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Easy Comfort Meal

Looking for a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out? You’ve found it with my Savory One-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup! This easy comfort dish brings together fresh veggies, tender chicken, and egg noodles in a flavorful broth, all in just one pot. Forget complicated recipes! With simple steps and quick prep, you’ll have a hearty bowl ready in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe that will make any dinner a hug in a bowl!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds

– 2 celery stalks, sliced into half-moons

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works beautifully)

– 1 cup egg noodles (or your preferred noodle type)

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– 2 cups fresh baby spinach

– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

I love using fresh ingredients in my one-pot chicken noodle soup. The extra virgin olive oil adds a nice richness. The onion and garlic bring a warm base. Carrots and celery add sweet and crunchy bites. I like to use dried thyme and rosemary. They help boost the flavor of the broth.

When it comes to broth, I choose low-sodium chicken broth. This makes the soup healthier. Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great taste. Egg noodles are my favorite, but you can use any noodles you like.

I finish the soup with fresh baby spinach. It adds color and nutrients. Fresh parsley makes it look nice. A squeeze of lemon brightens every bowl. This simple mix of ingredients creates a cozy and heartwarming meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Aromatics

To start, we need to create a base full of flavor. First, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 medium onion, finely diced. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes. You want it to turn soft and translucent. This step adds sweetness to the soup.

Next, add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic. Stir it for about a minute. You’ll notice a lovely aroma filling your kitchen. Be careful not to let the garlic brown. It can turn bitter if overcooked.

Now, it’s time to add the veggies. Toss in 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds, and 2 celery stalks, sliced into half-moons. Continue to sauté these for about 5-6 minutes. You want them to soften and gain a little color. This mix brings freshness to your soup.

Building the Soup Base

Once your aromatics are ready, it’s time to build a rich soup base. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Stir these herbs into the veggies. This step releases their fragrant oils, making everything smell amazing.

Now, pour in 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Gently stir the mixture as it heats up. Bring it to a gentle boil. This is where all the magic starts to happen.

After the broth is boiling, add 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken works great here for added flavor. Then, introduce 1 cup of egg noodles. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 8-10 minutes. You want the noodles to become tender and soak up the flavors.

Final Touches

Now for the final seasoning. Taste the soup and sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Then, add 2 cups of fresh baby spinach. Stir it in and let the spinach wilt for around 2 minutes. This adds a vibrant green color and boosts nutrition.

Once done, take the pot off the heat. Let it rest for a moment before ladling the soup into bowls. For a nice presentation, serve it in deep bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and add lemon wedges on the side. The lemon can brighten the soup’s flavors, making each bite even better!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Flavor

Seasoning is key to great soup. Always taste as you go. Start with salt and pepper. Add more if needed. Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary brighten the dish. Using rotisserie chicken adds rich flavor. It saves time and enhances the taste.

Cooking Techniques

Pick a heavy-bottomed pot. It helps heat evenly and prevents burning. A Dutch oven works well. For noodles, add them when the soup boils. This keeps them tender, not mushy. Stir gently to avoid clumping. Cook until the noodles are soft, about 8-10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in deep bowls. This makes it look inviting. Add chopped parsley on top for color. Lemon wedges on the side add freshness. Guests can squeeze lemon for a zesty kick. This small touch makes the dish pop!

Variations

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you need a gluten-free option, use rice noodles or gluten-free egg noodles. These alternatives cook well and maintain the soup’s comforting texture. For a vegetarian or vegan twist, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Replace the chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas. This gives you a hearty meal without meat.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost the flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper. These add warmth and depth. You can also try fresh herbs like basil or dill. They can brighten up the soup.

Feel free to customize with different vegetables. Peas, green beans, or bell peppers work great. Add them in during the last few minutes of cooking. This keeps them crisp and fresh.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

You can store leftovers of your one-pot chicken noodle soup in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container. It stays good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure to cool it down first. Then, transfer it to a container. I like using glass containers because they don’t soak up smells and are easy to clean.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save your soup for later, freezing is a great option. Pour the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave a little space at the top, as the soup will expand when it freezes. It stays fresh for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, take it out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight.

To reheat, pour the soup into a pot over low heat. If it feels thick, add a little extra broth or water. Stir it often so it heats evenly. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. Enjoy your comforting soup again!

FAQs

How can I make One-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup healthier?

To make this soup healthier, focus on a few simple changes. Start by using low-sodium chicken broth. You can also cut down on salt. Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for flavor. Add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. These can boost fiber and nutrients. Swap out egg noodles for whole grain or veggie noodles. This helps lower calories and adds more fiber. Lastly, consider using skinless chicken to reduce fat content.

Can I use uncooked chicken?

Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Start by dicing the raw chicken into small pieces. Sauté the chicken in olive oil before adding the onion and garlic. Cook the chicken until it is no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Then, continue with the recipe as usual. Make sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

What noodles work best for this soup?

Egg noodles are a classic choice for chicken noodle soup. They cook quickly and absorb flavors well. Other good options include fettuccine or rotini. These noodles add a nice texture to the soup. If you prefer gluten-free options, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust cooking times, as these noodles may cook faster. Always check the package for the best guidance.

This blog post outlined a simple and tasty one-pot chicken noodle soup. We explored key ingredients, from olive oil to fresh greens. I shared step-by-step instructions to create a flavorful base and tips for perfecting your dish. We discussed variations to fit dietary needs and provided storage tips for leftovers.

In conclusion, making this soup is easy and rewarding. You can impress anyone with your cooking skills, using just a few ingredients. Enjoy your warm bowl of soup, knowing it’s both delicious and versatile. Happy cookin