There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup to bring comfort on a chilly day, soothe a sick loved one, or simply fill your home with the rich aroma of a nourishing, made-from-scratch meal. This recipe is simple, wholesome, and full of flavor—just like grandma used to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting & Nourishing – Perfect for cold days, sick days, or when you need a little extra warmth.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together in one pot for an effortless meal.
- Customizable – Use homemade or store-bought broth, swap in your favorite vegetables, or make it heartier with extra chicken.
Homemade chicken noodle soup—it’s more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, seeking comfort on a chilly evening, or simply craving a classic, this timeless dish brings warmth, nourishment, and nostalgia with every spoonful.
Why Chicken Noodle Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food
For generations, chicken noodle soup has been a staple in homes around the world. But what is it about this simple dish that makes it so comforting?
1. It’s Healing and Nourishing
There’s a reason this soup is often called “nature’s penicillin.” The combination of warm broth, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables helps to soothe sore throats, provide hydration, and nourish the body with essential nutrients. The steam alone can help clear congestion, making it a go-to remedy during cold and flu season.
2. It’s a Taste of Home
Many of us grew up with memories of a parent or grandparent making a big pot of chicken noodle soup when we weren’t feeling well. The aroma of simmering broth, the gentle stir of the ladle, and the love poured into every bowl make this dish as emotionally comforting as it is physically nourishing.
This recipe is my mom’s and she found a way of adding more flavor by roasting her whole chicken before turning it into her soup. Her famous Roasted Chicken is also here on the blog too — The Ultimate Whole Roasted Chicken: Comforting, Crispy and Packed with Flavor.
3. It’s Simple, Yet Satisfying
At its core, homemade chicken noodle soup is made with humble ingredients—chicken, broth, vegetables, and noodles. Yet, when combined, they create a dish that is deeply satisfying. It’s not fancy or complicated, but it’s exactly what we crave when we need something soothing.
The Tradition of Making Chicken Noodle Soup
In many families, making chicken noodle soup is more than just cooking—it’s a ritual. From preparing homemade broth to carefully seasoning the soup just right, each step is a labor of love.
Some people swear by slow-cooked broth for the richest flavor, while others rely on a quick, stovetop version for busy weeknights. Either way, the result is the same: a heartwarming dish that brings people together.
Cooking chicken noodle soup from scratch also connects us to past generations. It’s a dish that has been passed down through families, each version slightly different but equally beloved.
Whether it’s a secret spice, an extra splash of lemon juice, or a unique noodle choice, every family puts its own touch on this timeless recipe. My mom was the same way. She loved to tweak recipes to her liking and then she often revamped entire recipes and created brand new recipes.
My mom and I both used to make our roasted chicken and soups in a large menudo pot that we grabbed from HEB 10+ years ago. But I’ve recently had to retire both of those pots as they are just not safe anymore.
I love to cook with this awesome dutch oven pot almost daily. I use it for so much of my cooking and it has by-far been my favorite dutch oven to date. I’ve gone through a lot of them, but this one really stands up to how much I use it.
The Best Times to Make Chicken Noodle Soup
Homemade chicken noodle soup is perfect for:
- Cold and flu season – The warmth and nutrients help ease symptoms and promote healing.
- Cozy family dinners – A big pot of soup makes a comforting, satisfying meal.
- New moms or loved ones in need – A homemade meal can be a thoughtful way to show care.
- Meal prep and freezing – Make a big batch and freeze portions for busy days.
Bringing Comfort to Others
One of the best things about chicken noodle soup is that it’s easy to share. Whether you’re bringing a pot to a sick friend, a grieving family, or a new mom who needs nourishment, this meal is a gesture of love and care. Food has a way of healing not just the body, but also the heart, and there’s no better way to show kindness than with a bowl of homemade soup.
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks and leaves chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 8 cups chicken broth homemade or store-bought
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie works great!
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups egg noodles or pasta of choice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- Juice of ½ lemon optional, for brightness
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for a minimum of 30 minutes to develop the flavors. The longer you simmer, the deeper the flavor. I prefer to simmer for at least 2 hours.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
- Add the egg noodles and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Be sure not to overcook, as they will continue to absorb broth as the soup sits.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
- Remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Tips & Variations
✔ Make it creamy: Add ½ cup of heavy cream for a richer texture.✔ Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free noodles or rice instead of egg noodles.
✔ Slow cooker method: Add everything (except noodles) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cooked noodles at the end.
✔ Freeze for later: Allow the soup to cool, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What to Serve with Chicken Noodle Soup
- Crusty bread or buttery biscuits
- A side salad for a refreshing contrast
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal
Final Thoughts
Homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition, a remedy, and a comforting embrace in the form of food. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or someone in need, every spoonful is a reminder of the simple joys of home-cooked meals.
Have you ever made homemade chicken noodle soup from scratch? What’s your family’s secret ingredient? Share in the comments below—I’d love to hear your favorite variations!
