Homemade Chicken Soup with Noodles

Keyword: homemade chicken soup with noodles

Chicken soup is a classic remedy for the common cold and other ailments, but it can also be a delightful meal in its own right. A well-made bowl of chicken noodle soup not only satisfies your hunger but also provides essential nutrients to help you feel better when you're under the weather. Making homemade chicken soup with noodles can be incredibly rewarding because you have full control over the ingredients and can adjust them according to your taste preferences.

This comforting meal is particularly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort for a hearty and nourishing dish. With the right tools, you can whip up this soup in less than an hour. You will need approximately 25 minutes of active cooking time, which includes chopping vegetables and seasoning the broth. Once your base is ready, simmering takes about 30 minutes to ensure that all flavors meld together perfectly.

The recipe makes four hearty servings, making it ideal for sharing with family or friends during flu season or simply as a comforting meal on a chilly evening. Each bowl contains approximately 250 grams of ingredients if you divide it equally among the four portions. This means each person gets a generous helping of nutritious broth, tender chicken, and al dente noodles.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3 pounds)
• 4 quarts water
• 6 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
• 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• 2 medium onions, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
• 3 cups of fresh egg noodles or 4 ounces of whole wheat pasta
• 2 tablespoons of butter (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: Begin by washing and cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place these pieces in a large stockpot along with 4 quarts of water. Bring to a boil over high heat while stirring occasionally.
2. Add the carrots, celery, onions, garlic, salt, and black pepper (if using). Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through. During this time, skim off any frothy residue that rises to the surface with a spoon.
3. Cook the Noodles: While your soup base continues to simmer, bring another pot of salted water to boil for cooking the noodles according to package directions until they are al dente. Drain thoroughly when done and set aside.
4. Combine Everything: Once both the broth and noodles have finished cooking, gently stir the noodles into the hot soup mixture. Taste and season further if necessary before serving. Garnish with a pat of butter per bowl for extra richness (optional).

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides around 350 calories, including approximately:

• 18 grams protein from the chicken and eggs.
• About 7 grams of dietary fiber contributed by carrots and celery.
• Several essential vitamins like A (from carrots), C (from onions), and B6 (present in chicken).

Tips for Success

To ensure your homemade chicken noodle soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose a high-quality cut of meat, such as dark meat, which will produce more flavorful broth.
• If possible, reserve some of the cooking liquid from boiling the chicken; it can enhance flavor significantly.
• For an extra special touch, consider adding some fresh herbs towards the end of preparation for added freshness and aroma.

Storage Options

This homemade version lasts longer than store-bought alternatives. Store leftover soup in airtight containers within the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for later consumption. Freezing helps maintain freshness, especially useful if you want to save some for busy days.

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p>Homemade chicken noodle soup with noodles offers not just delicious sustenance but also an opportunity to share warmth and care during times of illness. Whether enjoyed solo or shared among loved ones, this simple yet satisfying dish brings joy through every spoonful.