Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup (Easy & Cozy Recipe)

Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a bowl of broth and noodles—it’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, especially when you’re feeling under the weather, chilled to the bone, or simply in need of a cozy, soul-soothing meal. This classic homemade chicken noodle soup recipe brings the magic of comfort food right to your kitchen with tender shredded chicken, golden broth, and nostalgic egg noodles.

And here’s the kicker? It comes together in just 45 minutes. Whether you’re fighting a cold, dealing with picky eaters, or needing a quick weeknight dinner win, this recipe has your back—and your taste buds. Keep reading to discover why this age-old staple never goes out of style.

Table of Contents

What is Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?

At its core, classic homemade chicken noodle soup is a simple but deeply comforting combination of ingredients—shredded chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and egg noodles, all simmered in a seasoned chicken broth. But it’s so much more than that. It’s the soup grandma made when you were sick. It’s the one you craved after a long, rainy day.

And when it’s made from scratch (but still quick!), it feels like something lovingly ladled out of a memory. This version captures all the familiar flavors with just a hint of brightness from fresh herbs like parsley and optional lemon. It’s unfussy, family-approved, and made to warm you from the inside out.

Reasons to Try Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Still on the fence about making your own classic homemade chicken noodle soup? Let’s break it down. First, it’s a total time-saver—ready in 45 minutes and makes enough for the whole family (and then some). Second, it’s a picky-eater pleaser.

Kids, husbands, roommates—everyone can get behind a bowl of chicken noodle. Third, it’s a lifesaver during cold season. Seriously, it’s been dubbed “nature’s penicillin” for a reason. Plus, this soup is way better than anything from a can. The texture of real chicken, the tender veggies, and those soft egg noodles soaking up all that flavor? Yes, please. Bonus: it’s freezer-friendly and budget-friendly. So, if you’re looking for a delicious, quick, and comforting dinner idea, this soup is calling your name.

Ingredients Needed to Make Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

• Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, for sautéing the veggies
• Yellow Onion – 1 large, diced for a sweet, savory base
• Carrots – 3 medium, peeled and sliced
• Celery – 3 stalks, chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Chicken Broth – 8 cups, the heart and soul of this dish
• Cooked Chicken – 3 cups, shredded (rotisserie is your time-saving hero)
• Egg Noodles – 3 cups, the ultimate slurp-worthy carb
• Bay Leaf – 1, for subtle herbal depth
• Dried Thyme – ½ teaspoon, earthy and warm
• Salt & Pepper – Start with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper (adjust to taste)
• Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped for a fresh finish

Instructions to Make Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Ready to create a cozy bowl of comfort? Let’s walk through this step by step together so you feel confident from the first chop to the final ladle. This guide is written with you in mind—whether you’re a busy mom juggling dinner and homework time, or just someone craving a homemade hug in a bowl. Keep reading for clear, engaging instructions that make this process feel less like a chore and more like a warm little ritual. Oh, and if you’re looking for tips on ingredient swaps or time-saving tricks, I’ve got you covered along the way.

Step 1: Heat Your Pot and Get Things Sizzling

Start by placing a large soup pot or Dutch oven on your stovetop over medium heat. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. You’ll want the oil to shimmer but not smoke—this is your green light that it’s hot and ready. The pot you choose matters too; a heavy-bottomed one helps distribute heat evenly, preventing scorched veggies (because no one wants burnt onion soup, right?).

While you’re waiting, now’s a great time to grab all your prepped veggies. If you’re not already in the habit of prepping ingredients in advance, our chicken scampi with creamy garlic rice recipe shares some handy prep tips that save time.

Step 2: Sauté the “Holy Trinity” of Soup

Once your oil is hot, toss in your diced yellow onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. These three are affectionately known as the “holy trinity” in the soup world—they build the flavor base that makes your broth taste like it’s been simmering all day.

Stir occasionally and let the vegetables cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for softened edges and a slightly sweet aroma from the onions. If you’re multitasking (or mom-ing), just be sure to stir once or twice so nothing sticks.

Now, add your minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and sauté for another 30 seconds—just long enough to wake up the garlic without burning it. You’ll notice the kitchen starting to smell like heaven. That’s your cue you’re doing it right.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Add Bay Leaf

Next up in this step by step process: bring the soul of the soup to the party—your chicken broth. Pour in 8 cups of broth (store-bought or homemade both work beautifully). Drop in a single bay leaf for subtle herbal depth.

Raise the heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once it hits that soft bubbling stage, lower the heat to a simmer. Simmering helps all those flavors get friendly without breaking down your veggies into mush.

If you’re using a store-bought broth and want to boost flavor, consider adding a splash of high-protein white chicken chili base or a teaspoon of Better Than Bouillon.

Step 4: Stir in the Cooked Chicken

Time to bulk up that broth with your shredded chicken. You’ll want about 3 cups, cooked and ready to go. Rotisserie chicken is a total game changer here—it’s flavorful, tender, and saves time (plus, no dishes to scrub).

Add the chicken to your simmering broth and let it hang out for about 5 minutes. This gives it time to reheat and soak in all that savory flavor. If you made the chicken fresh and it’s still warm, you can cut this step down to 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Egg Noodles

Gently stir in 3 cups of egg noodles. Cook uncovered for 6 to 8 minutes, or until they’re just tender. The noodles will absorb a bit of broth, which thickens the soup slightly and makes every bite a little richer.

Important tip: if you’re making this soup ahead or planning to freeze leftovers, you might want to cook the noodles separately and add them just before serving. Otherwise, they’ll keep soaking up broth and go from soft to soggy. We talk more about this noodle-saving trick in our chicken noodle casserole recipe.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley

Once your noodles are done, remove the bay leaf—it served its purpose. Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for brightness and a pop of color. Give the soup one final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch more salt? A dash of pepper? Trust your tastebuds.

Want to take it up a notch? Add a small squeeze of lemon juice for a little zip, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat. Totally optional, but highly recommended.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Ladle the soup into big bowls and serve it piping hot. A slice of crusty bread, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a side of garlic Parmesan chicken bake pairs wonderfully.

And there you have it—your step by step guide to making the ultimate bowl of classic homemade chicken noodle soup. You didn’t just make soup—you made comfort. And honestly? That’s something to feel pretty darn good about.

What to Serve with Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

This classic homemade chicken noodle soup is cozy enough to stand on its own, but pairing it up can turn a simple meal into a feast. A crusty hunk of sourdough or a slice of homemade cheesy garlic bread is always a win. Want something lighter? Try a crisp side salad with balsamic vinaigrette. For a more indulgent touch, serve with a grilled cheese or maybe a warm butternut squash and garlic herb steak bowl. This soup also pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or a glass of chilled white wine if you’re treating yourself after a long day.

Key Tips for Making Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time—it adds flavor and saves effort.
2. Don’t overcook the noodles. If you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them fresh when serving.
3. Adjust seasoning at the end. Broth varies in saltiness, so always taste and tweak before serving.
4. Add a splash of lemon juice right before serving for a bright, tangy lift.
5. Want extra depth? Sauté the veggies in a bit of butter with the olive oil for richer flavor.
6. Make it your own. Toss in peas, spinach, or even corn if your crew likes extra veggies.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Leftovers? Lucky you. Let the soup cool to room temp before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you cooked the noodles in the soup, they may soak up more broth as it sits—just add a splash of extra broth or water when reheating. Want to freeze it? No problem. For best texture, freeze without the noodles and add freshly cooked ones when you’re ready to serve. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Bonus tip: this soup is just as good (if not better) the next day.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely. Thighs add more richness and tenderness. Just be sure they’re cooked and shredded.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free noodles and double-check your broth ingredients.

How do I make it more filling?
Add canned beans, extra veggies, or serve with crusty bread.

Can I cook the chicken in the broth?
Sure can. Just simmer raw chicken breasts in the broth for about 20 minutes, then shred and return to the pot.

Is this good for freezing?
Totally. Just freeze without the noodles for best results.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to cozy meals that hit the spot every time, classic homemade chicken noodle soup is the gold standard. It’s nourishing, nostalgic, and incredibly easy to throw together—even on a hectic weeknight. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a bowl of warmth on a rainy day, this soup will not let you down. And hey, if you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy our healthy chicken quinoa soup or creamy dill pierogi soup for a twist on the traditional. Bookmark this one—you’ll be making it again.

Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.

Print