There’s a reason why chicken noodle soup is known as a “comfort food.” It’s warm, hearty, and comforting on even the coldest days. Plus, it’s easy to make and can use up leftovers in the fridge. Let's take a look at how to make this classic dish.
Making Your Own Noodles
If you want to make your own noodles for your soup, you will need flour, eggs, salt, and water. Start by combining 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a bowl or on your countertop. Make a well in the center of the mixture and add two eggs (you don't have to beat them first). Begin incorporating the ingredients together until you have a dough that holds its shape when formed into ball. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour; if it's too dry, add more water until it reaches the desired consistency. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes then cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes before rolling out into sheets. Cut into thin strips or other shapes as desired.
Preparing Your Soup
Once you have your noodles ready (or if you are using pre-made noodles), prepare your soup base by sautéing onions and garlic in butter or oil over medium heat in a large pot until fragrant (about 3 minutes). Then add chopped carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes until softened (optional). Pour in your broth - either homemade stock or store-bought - along with bay leaves and bring everything to a simmer. Add diced cooked chicken (leftover roasted chicken works best) or uncooked chicken breasts cut into cubes or strips; simmer for 15 minutes until cooked through. Finally, stir in your prepared noodles; season with salt & pepper to taste; then allow it all to simmer for another 15-20 minutes until everything is cooked through thoroughly before serving hot.
There are many variations of chicken noodle soup depending on what ingredients you have available at home! Whether you use store-bought broth and pre-made noodles or make everything from scratch - nothing beats homemade chicken noodle soup on those days when you just need something warm & comforting! So grab some ingredients from your kitchen cupboard; get creative with flavors; then enjoy this classic comfort food favorite!
Ingredients
2-1/2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs
1-1/4 teaspoons pepper, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
10 cups chicken broth
4 celery ribs, chopped
4 medium carrots, chopped
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
3 cups uncooked kluski or other egg noodles (about 8 ounces)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon lemon juice