Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup

This Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup is sure to keep you warm and comforted throughout the cooler months of the year and you're guaranteed to be satisfied while highly nourished with the nutrients included in every bite. A great weeknight option or weekend addition, this soup boasts of it’s major flavor factor and comes loaded with shredded chicken, tender wide egg noodles, seasonings + herbs, chopped kale, hint of lemony flavor, and delicious veggies. Slow Cooker + Gluten-Free options.

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Whether you're feeling a bit under the weather or you just need a warm, comforting bowl of goodness on a chilly day, this Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup is just the thing you need! Most of us can remember this nostalgic flavored soup from our childhoods by Grandma which often made the worst of times feel a bit more bearable when it came to how comforting it was with every spoonful. The best part about this soup is that I've added additional nutrients to really boost the health benefit factor and it still remains SO DELISH!

Soup is Everything......

If you've been an avid reader of this blog, then you're probably already in love with a few other soup options that I've recently created, especially during Soup Week. While I do eat a lot of vegan and plant-based meals personally, I've never been one to project my own way of doing something unto others. Rather, I love to give people the option and create education around healthier options so that they can make the best choice for themselves.

To start, I’d recommend reading our latest article, How to Best Transition into a Plant-Based or Vegan Diet, which best explains how to keep your focus and continue on with eating healthy.

But in the meantime, much like this nourishing chicken soup, I've included my top 5 soup recipes below that are just as delicious and comforting as this one:

Loaded Vegan Veggie Soup

Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Fall Detox Sweet Potato Veggie Soup

Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup

Overall, this Chicken Noodle Soup is super easy to make, only uses a few staple ingredients, nourishing, perfect for meal prep, extremely kid-friendly, and flavorful. Plus, it comes with a slow cooker + gluten-free option.

The Best Type of Noodles For This Chicken Soup

When it comes to making this chicken noodle soup, I really love keeping things tradition with wide egg noodles---just like I'm used to eating it as a kid in Florida. However, there are so many other noodle/pasta options for the perfect soup and here are a few different types that you can include:

• Egg Noodles (This contains a higher egg-to-wheat ratio)
• Tiny Pasta (More traditional Italian ones made from Semolina and wheat are great such as pipettes, elbows, mini farfalle, orzo, etc.)
• Rotini pasta (This is a short, corkscrew-like pasta that is often referred to as "small wheels)
• Udon Noodles (This is a type of Japanese wheat noodle which is soft and chewy in texture)
• Ramen Noodles (Springy in texture and can be a great addition to chicken soup)
• Pappardelle Pasta (This is a long noodle-like pasta that works as a great replacement in chicken soup also)
• Gluten-Free Noodles (There are many great GF-friendly egg noodle options from brands like Bionaturae, Jovial, Manischewitz, etc.)

How to Make Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup

To make this chicken noodle soup, you'll start by baking and shredding your chicken, if you haven't already. Then to finish the soup, you'll need a pot on the stove to sauté the garlic, onions, carrots, and celery followed by the herbs and seasonings. The shredded chicken, noodles, and chopped kale, along with the remaining ingredients go into the pot for the soup. Let it simmer a bit more under the noodles and veggies are tender and wallah! Nice, aromatic results.

Adding Chicken Bone Broth: The Extra Nutrients

I truly love adding bone broth to many of my soups for that extra nourishment and it really does do the trick! Incase you aren't familiar, bone broth is the clear, protein-rich liquid obtained by simmering meaty joints (in this case chicken) and bones in water to pull the nutrients out. Much like regular stock, bone broth can be used as a great base for soups, stews, and risottos---although, I love drinking it warm in a mug whenever I'm sick or need some aid in my recovery. My fave brands are Bare & Bones as well as Kettle & Fire.

Breakdown of health benefits:

• Good for digestion and gut health
• May support immune function
• May support joint health
• May help promote sleep

What Gives Chicken Soup The Most Flavor?

Flavor in any dish, especially this chicken noodle soup definitely comes from herbs + spices used. In this recipe, I use salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, parsley, oregano, rosemary, turmeric, thyme, and bay leaves. You can also add coriander if desired. In addition, I love adding chicken stock and bone broth as opposed to just water, which gives your soup a bit more richness.

Ingredients for Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup

Here's what you need to make this Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup at home:

• Chicken Breasts. One of the stars of this dish. I decided to shred them after it being cooked for a nice bite; Can also be diced in chunks.
• Egg noodles. You can substitute with your favorite pasta like tiny pasta, rotini pasta, Udon noodles, ramen noodles, pappardelle, or Gluten-Free noodles.
• Chicken stock. Use store-bought low-sodium broth or make your own!
• Chicken bone broth. I love the added nutrients of bone broth which is great for immune support and digestion/gut health. I love brands like Bare & Bone and Kettle & Fire.
• Olive oil. You can also use Grapeseed oil, Avocado oil, or coconut oil as well.
• Red onion. Substitute with yellow or white if that’s what you have.
• Celery and carrot. These vegetables create the delicious, flavorful, aromatic base of the soup as well as great nutrients.
• Garlic. I prefer fresh, but you could substitute with ½ teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.
• Herbs + Seasonings. A great addition of flavor. Adds such savoriness from the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, parsley, rosemary, turmeric powder, thyme, and bay leaves.
• Lemon juice. I like to freshly-squeeze half a lemon.
• Fresh Greens. I use kale, but spinach, collard greens, or Bokchoy also works well to add some greens, Vitamins, and color in.

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR COOKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS SOUP!

Here, I’ve curated a list of cooking + baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods or cooked meals, especially with this Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup. Everything from my fave baking sheet, skillet, mixing bowls, cooking thongs, cooking utensils, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

What You’ll Love Most About This Chicken Noodle Soup

It’s super easy to make.

Simple set + forget it—-Simmer, Simmer, Simmer over the stovetop! There's even a slow-cooker option!

Only requires ONE pot.

Makes for a great weeknight meal with a gluten-free option.

Smooth, chunky, + comforting, all at the same times.

Super flavorful with the right amount of nutrients.

Perfect Fall + Winter vibes!

Did I mention, it’s just delicious?

Is Chicken Noodle Soup Healthy?

Absolutely! Homemade chicken noodle soup is much healthier than store-bought ones, which often include high-levels of sodium, preservatives, artificial flavors, etc. Plus, you have a lot more control over the ingredients used this recipe and you're able to purchase organic, healthier ingredients to make up your nourishing soup and provide you with loads of vitamins and nutrients.

Tips + Secret To Making Good Soup Every Time:

Now, if you're intimidated with making soup or are concerned that it won't turn out as delicious, no worries. In my experience with making many different types of soup and watching the adults around me make a TON of soup (it's a staple in the Jamaican culture), I've learned a few things along the way that can help you make really good soup, including this Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup:

• Chop your veggies and ingredients into bite-sized pieces for greater ease when eating.
• ALWAYS sauté your veggies, especially the garlic, onions, etc.
• Make your own stock if you can or use water as your base with seasonings + herbs for a great taste. If using store-bought stock/broth, always purchase high-quality ones.
• Let it simmer. While you might be tempted to cook your soup on high for a faster cook time, it's definitely BEST to let everything simmer and allow the flavors to "fuse" together slowly.
• If using meat, always sear your meat in the pot first prior to adding it to the soup to cook the rest of the way.
• If adding dairy or an alternative, always stir it in last or during the final few minutes.
• To thicken (if needed), always mix your thickener (flour, arrowroot, starch, etc.) in a small bowl with some of the hot broth from your soup before adding it to the entire pot of soup. This prevents lumps and gives you a nice creaminess.

How to Best Shred Chicken

When it comes to creating pulled or shredded chicken, there are two most effective ways to do so. Firstly, you would need to ensure that your chicken is fully cooked and cooled and then you shred the chicken in one of the following ways:

Forks: For this method you would need two forks. If using this method, place your cooked chicken breast onto a plate or cutting board and use both forks to separate the chicken meat and 'shred' as you separate. Continue doing this until all of your chicken is shredded.

Stand Mixer: If you're looking to avoid using arm strength, then the method of a stand mixer might be just for you. This is by far the fastest and easiest way to shred chicken and you simply place all of your cooked chicken breasts in the bowl of stand mixer. Add the paddle attachment and mix on low. In just 15-20 seconds you’ll have shredded chicken. That easy!

How To Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Into ore creamier soups? No worries! You can totally transform this recipe into a creamier base. Simply reduce the chicken stock/broth amount to 4 cups instead and replace the other cup with heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk/cream for a dairy-free option. Everything else stays the same! That easy! Also, feel free to add in a bit of grated cheese like parmesan, sharp cheddar, etc.

What Can Be Used in Place of Kale in this Chicken Soup?

Although, kale is the most common veggie used in this Chicken Noodle Soup, you can definitely use other greens such as spinach, collard greens, bokchoy, etc. for a nice twist! When it comes to vegetables, there are so many benefits as we all know. While some veggies pack a greater punch when it comes to nutrients, we’ve curated a special list of our Our Top 12 Favorite Healthy Green Leafy Vegetables! Most of these are super popular while others are under utilized in many dishes. Lettuce Eat, Shall We?

How to Store Leftover Chicken Soup

Leftovers can be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, for optimal freshness. Can also be frozen for 4-6 months. To defrost, simply place soup in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before re-heating on the stove top to serve.

Can I Make this Chicken Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! To make this soup in the slow cooker, simply sauté garlic, onions, carrots, and celery before adding everything (including shredded chicken) into your slow cooker and cooking on a low setting for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally.

Can I Make this Chicken Soup Entirely Gluten-Free?

Yes! Of course. To make this soup GF-friendly, simply substitute egg noddles with a gluten-free version (or similar pasta) and ensure that other ingredients are GF-friendly and you use GF bread or crackers on the side, if using.

More Childhood Fave Recipes to Try!

• Best Classic Glazed Doughnuts
• Easy Peanut Butter Chunky Monkey Milkshake
• Funfetti Oatmeal Vegan Waffles [Light + Fluffy]
• Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Weeknight Tomato Kale Ravioli Bake
• Stovetop Southern Mac and Cheese
• Dutch Apple Pie
• Apple Hand Pies
• Oreo Milkshake
• Classic Southern Banana Pudding

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you make this Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup, tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea!

Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup

February 21, 2023 •

By Shanika

5 from 4 votes

This Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup reminds you of that comforting, cozy bowl of goodness that Grandma used to make!

Prep Time: 15 minutes mins

Cook Time: 20 minutes mins

Total Time: 35 minutes mins

Serves: 6 servings

Units:

US Customary|Metric

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Ingredients

SOUP:

• 2-3 cups cooked + shredded organic chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
• ½ red onion, chopped
• 2 organic carrots, peeled + chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 celery sticks, thinly sliced
• 2 thyme sprigs
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ lemon, freshly-squeezed
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2-3 cups wide egg noodles (depending on how much noodles desired)
• ½ cup organic kale, chopped
• 5 cups organic chicken stock/broth
• 1 (16 oz.) package chicken bone broth (You can also sub with 2 cups of chicken stock, if preferred)

OPTIONAL GARNISH:

• Lemon slices, thin

Instructions

TO MAKE THE SOUP:

• In a medium-sized dutch oven pot over medium high-heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and chopped onions, and sauté until translucent + fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the chopped carrots and celery, stirring and sautéing for 1-2 minutes. Add in the seasonings: salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, parsley, oregano, rosemary, and turmeric, stirring to combine.
• Add in the kale, shredded chicken, egg noodles, lemon juice, bone broth, and veggie stock/broth, stirring everything together until combined. Lastly, add the thyme sprigs and bay leaves and stir to incorporate.
• Let everything boil for 1-2 minutes and then reduce heat to low to allow a simmer. Let it continue to simmer for another 10-12 minutes or so or until veggies and egg noodles have cooked through and are tender. Add additional salt, to taste.
• Remove from heat and serve immediately into prepared bowl(s), with lemon wedges and a side of bread or crackers, if desired.
• Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

• STORAGE: Leftovers can be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, for optimal freshness. Can also be frozen for 4-6 months. To defrost, simply place soup in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before re-heating on the stove top to serve.
• SLOW COOKER OPTION: To make this soup in the slow cooker, simply sauté garlic, onions, carrots, and celery before adding everything (including shredded chicken) into your slow cooker and cooking on a low setting for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. 
• SPICES/HERBS: If desired, you can reduce the amounts slightly. Please know that this recipe is bold in spice/herb flavor, so feel free to adjust based on your tastebuds.
• GLUTEN-FREE OPTION: To make this soup GF-friendly, simply substitute egg noddles with a gluten-free version (or similar pasta) and ensure that other ingredients are GF-friendly and you use GF bread or crackers on the side, if using.
• TURMERIC: While adding turmeric is optional, it definitely has benefits: powerful medicinal properties, natural anti-inflammatory ingredient, increases antioxidant activity in the body, and more.
• EQUIPMENT: Here, I’ve curated a list of cooking + baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods or cooked meals, especially with this Nourishing Chicken Noodle Soup. Everything from my fave baking sheet, dutch ovens, immersion hand-blender, mixing bowls, and more.SEE THEM HERE!

Nutrition

Calories: 191kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 443mg | Potassium: 294mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 4083IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 1mg

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