Name: Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 6 oz egg noodles; 3 carrots, sliced; 3 celery stalks, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth or stock; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 bay leaf; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

This Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is my ultimate comfort food—warm, nourishing, and perfect for cozy nights or when I need a little healing in a bowl. With tender chunks of chicken, soft egg noodles, and a medley of vegetables simmered in savory broth, it brings that homemade goodness I crave on chilly days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple yet soul-satisfying this soup is. It’s one of those classic meals that I can make with basic pantry ingredients, and it never fails to warm me up from the inside out. The aroma alone makes my kitchen feel like home. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and ideal for meal prepping.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Egg noodles
Carrots
Celery
Onion
Garlic
Chicken broth or stock
Olive oil or butter
Bay leaf
Dried thyme
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
I sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they start to soften, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
I place the chicken into the pot and pour in the chicken broth until everything is covered.
I add a bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper, then bring the pot to a boil.
Once boiling, I reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
I remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
I add the egg noodles and let them cook for about 7–8 minutes, or until tender.
I taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then stir in some fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. I’ve also swapped egg noodles for rice, or added spinach or peas for extra greens. For more depth, I occasionally squeeze in a little lemon juice at the end or use fresh herbs like dill or rosemary.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If I plan to freeze it, I cook the noodles separately and add them when reheating, since noodles can get mushy. To reheat, I warm it on the stove over medium heat or microwave a portion for 2–3 minutes until hot.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I often use cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time. I just add it in after the veggies have simmered and before the noodles.

What kind of noodles work best?

I usually go with egg noodles for that classic texture, but wide noodles, ditalini, or even orzo work well too.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, I throw everything (except the noodles) into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours. I add the noodles in the last 30 minutes.

How do I keep the noodles from getting soggy?

If I’m storing the soup for later, I cook the noodles separately and add them just before serving.

Can I freeze this soup?

I do freeze it, but I prefer freezing it without the noodles. I just add freshly cooked noodles when I reheat.

Conclusion

Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup is one of those timeless recipes I turn to again and again. Whether I need something warm and healing or just a wholesome homemade meal, this soup never lets me down. It’s simple, cozy, and always hits the spot.