There’s something truly magical about a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. This healthy chicken noodle soup, a personal favorite, brings that comforting warmth right to your kitchen. It’s a dish designed for pure, wholesome goodness, featuring tender chicken and vibrant, tender vegetables that sing with flavor.
I find this particular recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Its familiar, comforting aroma fills the house and it’s always a hit. Plus, leftovers store beautifully, making it perfect for easy lunches or a quick, nourishing dinner the next day.
Why I Love This Recipe
This healthy chicken noodle soup recipe is a true weeknight champion. It comes together so quickly!
- Super speedy: Perfect for when time is tight.
- Flavor packed: Simple ingredients create amazing taste.
- So versatile: Easily adaptable to what you have on hand.
- Pure comfort: It just warms your soul!
Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
The magic of a truly good soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. This healthy chicken noodle soup recipe is built on that very principle, creating a dish that nourishes the body and soothes the soul with minimal fuss.
Lean Chicken: The heart of our soup, providing protein and a savory base. Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs work beautifully.
Aromatics (Onion, Carrots, Celery, Garlic): This classic mirepoix builds incredible depth of flavor. They soften and release their sweetness as they cook.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth & Water: This liquid foundation carries all the wonderful flavors. Using low-sodium broth lets you control the saltiness.
Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): These dried herbs lend a lovely, earthy aroma and taste that’s quintessential comfort food.
Whole Wheat Noodles: Adding satisfying heartiness, these absorb the delicious broth. Choose whole wheat for extra fiber, or your favorite regular noodles.
Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that livens up the soup just before serving.
You’ll find the exact measurements for these stars in the printable recipe card below. Don’t worry, we’ll cover some easy swaps and tips next!
Substitutions and Tips
I always aim for flexibility in the kitchen, and this soup is wonderfully forgiving!
- Herbs: No fresh thyme or rosemary? A teaspoon of Italian seasoning or even a bay leaf simmered in broths will do nicely.
- Noodles: Gluten-free pasta or even rice can stand in for traditional noodles. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Veggies: Toss in some frozen peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking, or add diced potatoes with the broth for a heartier meal.
- Flavor Boost: A squeeze of lemon juice or a tiny splash of apple cider vinegar right before serving can really brighten the flavors.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Gathering your tools makes cooking a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need for this healthy chicken noodle soup:
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Your soup’s cozy home.
- Cutting Board & Knife: For chopping veggies.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accuracy.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring everything together.
- Ladle: For serving up those delicious bowls.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup
Let’s get cooking! Making this healthy chicken noodle soup is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps for a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Step 1: Searing the Chicken
First, grab your large pot. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add your chicken pieces. Cook them until they’re lightly browned. This takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You want a nice sear on all sides. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot. Set it aside for later. This searing step locks in flavor.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Now, add your chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Cook these veggies, stirring now and then. You want them to get a little tender. This usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Next, add your minced garlic. Stir it in and cook for just one minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should smell wonderful.
Step 3: Building the Broth Base
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add your dried thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and black pepper. This is where the soup starts to really come together. Bring the liquid to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Adding Noodles and Finishing Touches
Return the seared chicken to the pot. Now, add your egg noodles. Cook them according to the package directions, usually about 7 to 10 minutes. You want them to be al dente, which means tender but still slightly firm. Give the soup a taste. Adjust any seasonings if needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it up!
How to Store Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup
Leftover healthy chicken noodle soup is a treasure! Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Remember to add noodles just before reheating if you’ve frozen it, as they can get mushy.
Tips for Success
A few little tricks can make this healthy chicken noodle soup even better!
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip browning the chicken; it adds a depth of taste.
- Gentle Simmer: Let the broth simmer gently to develop rich flavors without boiling over.
- Noodle Timing: Add noodles near the end so they don’t get too soft.
- Season Smartly: Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or dill at the end brings brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting healthy chicken noodle soup piping hot!
- Pair it with crusty bread for dipping.
- A simple side salad adds a fresh touch.
- Offer a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top.
- Enjoy with a light, crisp white wine or iced tea.
Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and healthy chicken noodle soup made with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and whole wheat noodles.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 oz whole wheat or regular egg noodles (about 2 cups dry)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are slightly softened, about 7-10 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the dried thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually 7-10 minutes, or until al dente.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use chicken thighs.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more noodles or a cornstarch slurry.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. Add the noodles closer to serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes.
