The Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Published on: November 25, 2025

Close-up of a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, perfect for a comforting chicken noodle soup recipe.

Nothing beats a warm bowl of classic chicken noodle soup. This chicken noodle soup recipe brings all that comforting goodness right into your kitchen. It’s incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy to make, and perfect for a cozy night in. With homemade broth and tender noodles, you’ll create a family-favorite meal that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

You’ll find endless reasons to make this delightful chicken noodle soup recipe a staple in your home:

It offers that rich, comforting homemade flavor you crave, far surpassing anything from a can.
This recipe is quick and simple, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight meal.
You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste.
It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought options, allowing you to control the ingredients and sodium.
This soup is absolutely perfect for chilly days or when you need a comforting pick-me-up during sickness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh, wholesome ingredients to create your comforting soup:

1/2 Tablespoon butter: For sautéing the aromatics.
2 ribs celery, diced: Fresh and crisp for flavor and texture.
3-4 large carrots, diced: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
1 clove garlic, minced: Essential for a robust flavor base.
10 cups chicken stock, or broth*: The soul of your soup.
1 teaspoon salt, to taste: Seasoning is key!
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste: A classic seasoning.
1/8 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds an aromatic, earthy note.
1/8 teaspoon dried thyme: Another classic herb for chicken.
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a subtle warmth.
1 batch homemade egg noodles, or 4 cups dry egg noodles, farfalle or other bite-size pasta: The star of the soup.
3 cups rotisserie chicken*: Pre-cooked for convenience.
1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor, (or more, as needed), or chicken bouillon granules: An optional, but fantastic, flavor booster.

Notes & Substitutions

For the most profound flavor, use a high-quality homemade chicken stock or low-sodium store-bought broth.
Regarding noodles, homemade egg noodles are wonderful, but feel free to use farfalle, elbow macaroni, or any small pasta you prefer.
If you need a gluten-free chicken noodle soup recipe, simply swap traditional pasta for your favorite gluten-free alternative.
Finish your soup with fresh parsley or dill for a bright, herbaceous lift.

Equipment

You won’t need many specialized tools for this simple chicken noodle soup recipe:

A large stockpot or Dutch oven will hold all the delicious ingredients.
You’ll need a cutting board and a sharp knife for prepping vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons ensure precise seasoning and ingredient amounts.
A ladle makes serving your homemade soup easy and mess-free.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your comforting chicken noodle soup recipe from scratch:

Add the butter, diced celery, and carrots to a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften slightly. Next, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for just 30 seconds more, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.
Pour in the chicken stock or broth. Season the broth generously with dried rosemary, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. It’s crucial to taste the broth here; adjust the salt and pepper as needed to ensure a flavorful base. For an extra depth of flavor, stir in a spoonful of Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor or chicken bouillon granules. This enhances the overall richness of the soup.
Bring the seasoned broth to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add your chosen noodles. If using uncooked homemade egg noodles or dry store-bought pasta, add them now. Cook the noodles just until they are al dente, meaning they are tender but still have a slight bite.
If you are using store-bought noodles, be especially cautious not to overcook them. Remove the pot from the heat as soon as they reach the al dente stage. The noodles will continue to cook slightly from the residual heat in the pot, preventing them from becoming mushy.
Stir in the shredded chicken meat from your rotisserie chicken. This step quickly adds protein and makes this a truly easy chicken noodle soup recipe.
Taste the broth once more after adding the chicken. Adjust any seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to achieve your perfect balance.
Serve your homemade chicken noodle soup hot immediately, and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

Unlock the best flavor and texture for your homemade chicken noodle soup recipe with these expert tips:

Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. Your taste buds are your best guide.
Do not overcook the noodles. Remove them from the heat when they are just al dente for the perfect texture.
Use fresh, quality ingredients for the most vibrant and delicious flavor profile.
Homemade chicken stock truly elevates the flavor of this soup; it makes a noticeable difference.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving for a bright, aromatic finish.

Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations

Make the most of your delicious chicken noodle soup recipe with these practical tips.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your steaming bowl of soup with some crusty artisan bread for dipping.
Enjoy it alongside warm, soft homemade rolls to complete a comforting meal.
Serve a simple green salad on the side for a fresh and balanced contrast.

Storage Instructions

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to storage containers.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instructions

For longer storage, freeze cooled soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
If you plan to freeze, undercook the noodles slightly so they don’t become mushy when reheated.
Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Variations

Boost the vegetable content by adding frozen peas, corn, or fresh spinach at the very end.
Instead of rotisserie, use raw chicken breast or thighs, cooking them directly in the broth until done.
Experiment with different spices like a pinch of ginger, a bay leaf, or a touch of smoked paprika.
For a dairy-free option, simply omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative.

Nutrition Information

Homemade chicken noodle soup offers a satisfying and nourishing meal. This chicken noodle soup recipe provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins from the vegetables. Making it yourself allows you to control the sodium and fat content, contributing to a healthier option compared to many store-bought varieties.

Research suggests that a hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup may help clear nasal congestion and ease cold symptoms, as well as providing tryptophan for mood enhancement. Learn more about the health benefits of chicken noodle soup.

Name	Value
Calories	206kcal
Carbohydrates	14g
Protein	23g
Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	2g
Polyunsaturated Fat	1g
Monounsaturated Fat	3g
Trans Fat	0.1g
Cholesterol	58mg
Sodium	934mg
Potassium	587mg
Fiber	1g
Sugar	6g
Vitamin A	4606IU
Vitamin C	3mg
Calcium	31mg
Iron	1mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is homemade chicken noodle soup healthy?
Yes, absolutely! This homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is packed with lean protein, vegetables, and nutrients, while allowing you to control sodium levels for a healthier meal.
Can I use raw chicken?
You certainly can! Add raw, diced chicken breast or thighs to the simmering broth and cook until it is no longer pink inside, usually about 10-15 minutes, before adding the noodles.
What type of noodles are best?
Classic egg noodles are traditional, but farfalle, elbow macaroni, or even orzo work wonderfully. Choose a bite-sized pasta that holds its shape well.
How do I prevent soggy noodles?
The key is to cook noodles until just al dente and remove them from the heat promptly. If making ahead, you can cook and store noodles separately, adding them to individual bowls of hot broth.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, easily! Swap chicken stock for vegetable broth and omit the chicken, adding chickpeas or cannellini beans for protein instead.

Conclusion

This homemade chicken noodle soup recipe truly embodies warmth and comfort in a bowl. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to become a cherished family favorite. Don’t hesitate to make this classic from scratch; you’ll love the fresh taste and the joy of a wholesome, homemade meal. We invite you to try this recipe and share your comforting experience! If you enjoyed this, explore our other quick and easy recipes for more culinary delights.

For optimal food safety, it’s crucial to understand how to store homemade soups properly. Learn more about safely storing soup leftovers.