Comfort Food Recipes With Chicken And Noodles

Name: Comfort Food Recipes With Chicken And Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups egg noodles; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting

I've always loved the warm embrace of a hearty chicken noodle dish, especially on chilly nights. There's something about the comforting combination of tender chicken, rich broth, and perfectly cooked noodles that feels like a big, warm hug. In this recipe, I focus on balancing flavors and textures, making sure that every spoonful brings a smile. It’s an easy and satisfying dish that brings my family together, reminding me why I love cooking in the first place.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:07:14.968Z

When I first made chicken noodles, it took several attempts to get the flavors just right. Using a combination of fresh herbs and a dash of lemon really elevates the dish. I remember the first time I served this to guests and their faces lit up, asking for the recipe.

I learned early on to let the ingredients simmer gently, allowing the chicken to remain moist and the flavors to meld beautifully. Stirring in some frozen peas at the end adds a pop of color and freshness, making it not just tasty but visually appealing as well.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for cold evenings
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Comforting blend of flavors that warms the soul

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this chicken noodle recipe plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. The combination of onions, carrots, and celery, known as mirepoix, serves as the aromatic base, adding depth to the broth. Diced vegetables should be chopped uniformly to ensure even cooking, allowing them to soften perfectly within the first five minutes of sautéing. This mix not only complements the chicken but also gives the dish a satisfying crunch.

Moreover, high-quality chicken broth is crucial for achieving a rich flavor profile. Homemade broth is ideal, but if you're using store-bought, aim for a low-sodium version to control the saltiness. Adding fresh herbs like thyme enhances the overall taste and aroma, making each spoonful deliciously comforting. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider simmering the broth with bay leaves or even a splash of white wine.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When it comes to cooking the egg noodles, timing is everything. It's essential to monitor the noodles closely to avoid overcooking; they should be just al dente, providing a nice bite that contrasts with the tender chicken and vegetables. Since the noodles will continue to absorb broth once added, you may want to reduce cooking time by a minute. If you're making this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the noodles separately to prevent them from becoming mushy when reheating.

As you combine the ingredients, ensure that the chicken is gently stirred into the soup to distribute it evenly without shredding it further. Once the mixture simmers for the final five minutes, the flavors meld and develop, resulting in a cohesive dish. If the soup seems too thick, you can add additional broth or water, stirring gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a comforting chicken noodle dish.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups egg noodles
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Once you have everything ready, you'll be just a few steps away from a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your comforting bowl of chicken noodles.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute.

Add Broth and Noodles

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.

Combine Everything

Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the shredded chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes for the flavors to blend.

Serve

Ladle the chicken noodle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodles!

Pro Tips

For an even heartier dish, feel free to add in some frozen peas or corn along with the chicken. This adds not just flavor, but extra nutrition as well.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to keep the noodles separate if you plan on reheating later, as they can soak up too much broth. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in airtight containers for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

When reheating, aim for a low heat setting to preserve the textures of the chicken and vegetables. Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the consistency; if it appears too thick, gradually incorporate more broth to achieve your preferred soupiness.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this chicken noodle soup by incorporating other seasonal vegetables. Peas, corn, or even spinach can enhance the nutritional value and add color to your dish. If you're in the mood for some extra protein, white beans or chickpeas can work well, transforming this into a hearty one-pot meal. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta; just be mindful of cooking times, as they may differ.

For an added kick, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when serving. Alternatively, you can stir in a handful of fresh lemon juice, which brightens the flavors beautifully. These variations allow you to personalize the dish while still preserving the comforting essence that makes chicken noodle soup a beloved classic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken can save you time and adds great flavor.

→ What can I substitute for egg noodles?

You can substitute with whole wheat noodles or any pasta of your choice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to freeze it in an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop when ready to eat.