Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Holiday

It was the week after Christmas and I remember feeling the post-holiday slump settling in. The excitement was over and the cold weather was creeping in and so I turned to an old favorite homemade chicken noodle soup. I simmered a big pot filled with shredded chicken and tender noodles and lots of veggies and the smell alone warmed up the whole kitchen. One bowl was all it took to remind me why this soup always makes everything better.

Now and this homemade chicken noodle soup is a tradition of its own in my house. I make it after busy holidays and during cozy winter weekends or when anyone needs a little extra comfort. It’s simple and soothing and packed with flavor from the broth and herbs and veggies. Whether served as a starter for your holiday dinner or the main event during a quiet New Year’s night and it always hits the spot.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Cooked chicken – I usually use shredded breast or thigh meat for tenderness.
• Carrots – Add a gentle sweetness and beautiful color to the broth.
• Celery – Offers crunch and earthy depth to balance the soup.
• Onion – Provides savory flavor and builds the base of the broth.
• Garlic – Enhances everything with a bold and aromatic kick.
• Egg noodles – Soft and comforting and perfect for soaking up the broth.
• Chicken broth – The soul of the soup and full of savory richness.
• Olive oil – Used to sauté the vegetables before simmering.
• Salt and pepper – Basic seasoning that brings out every other flavor.
• Bay leaf – Adds subtle herbal depth during simmering.
• Fresh parsley – A bright and fresh finish to each bowl.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large soup pot – The best vessel for cooking everything in one place.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping up the veggies and herbs.
• Wooden spoon – Great for stirring gently while the soup simmers.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure your seasoning and broth ratios are just right.
• Ladle – Makes serving neat and easy.
• Strainer (optional) – If you prefer to remove the bay leaf and aromatics before serving.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

I heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté the chopped onions and celery and carrots until they’re just tender. Then I stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add Broth and Simmer

I pour in the chicken broth and drop in a bay leaf. I bring everything to a boil and then lower the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors deepen.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Noodles

Next and I stir in the shredded chicken and noodles. I cook it all together for about 10 minutes or until the noodles are just tender.

Step 4: Season and Finish

I season the soup with salt and pepper to taste and then remove the bay leaf. Just before serving and I sprinkle in chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

Step 5: Serve Hot

I ladle the soup into bowls and serve it steaming hot. Sometimes I top it with extra cracked pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Tips

If you want an even richer broth and simmering the soup with the chicken bones before adding the meat back in does wonders. I’ve also used rotisserie chicken in a pinch and it’s just as delicious. For added heartiness and you can stir in a handful of spinach or a scoop of cooked rice instead of noodles.

Ways to Serve

This chicken noodle soup is lovely on its own but pairs wonderfully with a grilled cheese sandwich or a slice of warm crusty bread. I often serve it before a big holiday roast or bring it to friends when they’re under the weather. It’s perfect for comforting a crowd or curling up with on a quiet night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make homemade chicken noodle soup ahead of time for a holiday dinner?

Yes and you can make the soup ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently and add a splash of broth if it thickens.

Can I freeze homemade chicken noodle soup?

Absolutely. Just freeze it without the noodles and add freshly cooked ones when you’re ready to reheat.

What noodles work best in homemade chicken noodle soup?

I love egg noodles and but you can also use rotini and ditalini or even broken spaghetti depending on your texture preference.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you find comfort and warmth in this homemade chicken noodle soup – especially after the busy holidays! It’s one of those recipes that soothes and satisfies no matter when you serve it. I’d love to hear how it turns out or what cozy additions you include!

Happy Cooking!

Print