The Ultimate Guide to Classic Chicken Noodle Soup: Ingredients, Directions, and Deliciousness Defined
Chicken noodle soup. It’s more than a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a steaming cup of memories, a comforting staple that’s been around for centuries. But have you ever wondered what makes the perfect chicken noodle soup?
This guide dives deep into the world of this classic recipe, exploring the essential ingredients, easy-to-follow directions, and the all-important nutritional breakdown.
Gathering Your Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
The beauty of chicken noodle soup lies in its simplicity. But within that simplicity lies a symphony of flavors waiting to be awakened. Here’s what you’ll need to create your masterpiece:
Chicken
Aromatics
1 yellow onion, chopped: Onions add a touch of sweetness and savory depth to the broth.
Vegetables
2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
Noodles
Broth and Seasonings
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth: This forms the base of your soup, providing a rich and savory foundation. You can use homemade chicken broth for an extra flavor boost.
Bringing it All Together: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have your ingredients assembled, it’s time to transform them into a steaming bowl of comforting goodness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your perfect chicken noodle soup:
1. Prep the Chicken: Rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. If using a whole chicken, remove any giblets from the cavity and discard them.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and then sauté the chopped onion until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Broth: Add the chicken, chicken broth, soy sauce, thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken meat using two forks or your fingers. Discard the bones and skin.
5. Welcome the Vegetables: While the chicken cools, add the chopped carrots and celery to the simmering broth. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Noodle Time!: Add the dried egg noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually for 5-7 minutes.
7. The Grand Finale: Stir in the shredded chicken and chopped greens. Cook for another minute or two, just until the greens are wilted. Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as desired.
