There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Easy Chicken Noodle Soup.
Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving something cozy, or just want to nourish your body with wholesome ingredients, this classic soup is always a good idea.
With tender chicken, soft noodles, and flavorful broth, it’s a dish the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make – Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients
Perfect for cold days or sick days – Nourishing and soothing for body and soul
Made in one pot – Less cleanup and easier prep
Family-friendly – A crowd-pleaser for all ages
Customizable – Swap noodles or add your favorite veggies
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken thighs – Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for soup
Chicken broth – The savory base that ties everything together
Carrots & celery – Add sweetness and texture
Onion & garlic – Aromatic base that enhances the broth
Egg noodles – Tender and comforting, they soak up all the flavors
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use bone-in chicken thighs if possible – they add more flavor to the broth
Don’t overcook the noodles – Add them toward the end to keep them from getting mushy
Make it ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day
Remove bay leaves before serving – They add flavor, but aren’t pleasant to bite into
Add extra broth if reheating – Noodles can soak up liquid over time
How to Make Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1 – Simmer the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large pot along with the chicken broth and water.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
Let the chicken simmer gently for about 25 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
Step 2 – Prep the Vegetables
While the chicken is cooking, peel and slice the carrots, chop the celery, finely dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
These will form the aromatic and flavorful base of your soup.
Step 3 – Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use tongs to transfer it to a plate.
Let it cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
Discard the skin and bones if using bone-in cuts.
Step 4 – Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot (don’t drain the broth!), add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and bay leaves.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Simmer for about 12–15 minutes until the veggies are soft and fragrant.
Step 5 – Add Noodles and Chicken
Stir in the egg noodles and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not overcooked.
Step 6 – Add Fresh Parsley and Adjust Seasoning
Stir in chopped parsley and taste the broth.
Adjust with more salt and pepper as needed.
If you like a stronger herb flavor, feel free to add a pinch of thyme or rosemary.
Step 7 – Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread, crackers, or a light salad.
What to Serve It With
Freshly baked bread or dinner rolls
Saltine or oyster crackers for crunch
Side salad with a lemon vinaigrette
Grilled cheese sandwich for a cozy pairing
Lemon wedges for a splash of brightness
Variations / Substitutions
Use rotisserie chicken – Cut down cooking time dramatically
Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free noodles or rice
Add greens – Stir in spinach, kale, or Swiss chard before serving
Try different noodles – Fusilli, bow ties, or ditalini all work well
Add spice – A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a gentle kick
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer – Freeze soup without noodles for up to 3 months
Reheat gently – Warm over low heat on the stovetop; add a splash of broth if needed
Avoid mushy noodles – If making ahead, cook the noodles separately and add just before serving
Meal prep tip – Portion into containers for quick lunches all week
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs offer more flavor and stay tender.
Breast meat may dry out slightly.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Cook on low for 6–7 hours, then add noodles in the last 30 minutes.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken.
Add more veggies or white beans for protein.
How do I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeño, or a splash of hot sauce.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
You can use dried parsley or substitute with dill, thyme, or basil.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just extend the simmering time until the chicken is cooked through.
Why does my soup get thick the next day?
The noodles absorb broth over time.
Add a little extra broth or water when reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup is a go-to comfort food that never disappoints.
It’s warm, filling, and healing—the kind of meal that brings people together and makes any day better.
Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to canned again!
Easy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, and water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer 25 minutes.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and set aside.
- Add vegetables and bay leaves to broth. Simmer 12–15 minutes.
- Return chicken to pot and add noodles.
- Cook 6–8 minutes until tender.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/easy-chicken-noodle-soup/
Notes
- For extra flavor, sauté the onion, garlic, and celery in a bit of olive oil before adding the broth.
- Bone-in thighs add richer flavor, but boneless thighs work just as well for quicker prep.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.