American Chicken Noodle Soup: A Comforting Homemade Recipe

Chicken noodle soup is the classic comfort food for cold days. It is warm, hydrating and gentle on the stomach, which is why many people eat it when they have a cold. The recipe card below lists the ingredients and steps; here are the tips for a flavorful, clear broth.

Why it comforts

• Warm broth soothes the throat and keeps you hydrated.
• Chicken provides protein, and vegetables add vitamins and fiber.
• Soft noodles are easy to eat and digest when you feel unwell.

It is not a cure, but it is a nourishing meal that makes you feel better.

Tips for better soup

• Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots and celery first for about 5 minutes; this builds flavor before the broth goes in.
• Use a good broth. Homemade stock, or a low-sodium store-bought one, makes all the difference.
• Add the bay leaves while simmering and remove them before serving.
• Cook the noodles last, only until tender, 6 to 8 minutes. If they cook too long they turn mushy and soak up the broth.
• Finish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon for freshness.

Variations

• Use thighs for richer flavor, or leftover roast chicken to save time.
• Add a pinch of thyme, turmeric or a little ginger.
• Replace noodles with rice, small pasta or lentils.

Storage

If you plan leftovers, cook and store the noodles separately so they do not swell. Keep the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat until steaming hot. It also freezes well without noodles for up to 2 months.