Is chicken noodle soup actually healthy?

Absolutely. Homemade chicken noodle soup is packed with lean protein, vegetables, and hydrating broth, making it a great choice for those feeling under the weather or seeking a light yet nourishing meal. Compared to canned varieties (which are often high in sodium), making it from scratch gives you total control over ingredients and portion sizes. For a hearty but healthy pairing, try our Mandarin Orange Salad —it’s fresh, light, and complements the warmth of the soup.

What makes good chicken noodle soup?

The secret to excellent chicken noodle soup lies in balance: A rich, flavorful broth (use homemade stock if possible) Tender chicken (rotisserie for convenience or poached for purity) Al dente noodles (cook separately if storing leftovers) Seasoning layered carefully (taste as you go and adjust salt, herbs, and spices) Avoid overcooking the noodles or vegetables to preserve texture and freshness.

What’s a good secret ingredient for chicken noodle soup?

If you’re looking to elevate your chicken noodle soup , here are a few secret weapons: Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base : A concentrated flavor boost. A splash of soy sauce or fish sauce : Adds umami depth. Lemon juice or zest : Brightens and balances the richness. Fresh herbs at the end : Parsley, dill, or cilantro keep the flavors vibrant. These subtle enhancements transform a simple pot of soup into something truly crave-worthy.

What ingredients go in chicken noodle soup?

At its core, it is beautifully simple. The traditional version includes: Chicken (usually shredded rotisserie or poached breast) Chicken stock or broth Egg noodles or your favorite pasta Aromatic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion Herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley Garlic for a flavor punch Salt, pepper, and sometimes a pinch of red pepper flakes Each ingredient serves a purpose: the broth soothes, the chicken nourishes, and the vegetables provide vitamins and antioxidants. Many cooks also add their own twists. “People Also Search For” queries like can I add lemon to chicken noodle soup and what vegetables can I add to chicken noodle soup highlight how flexible this dish is.

Chicken Noodle Soup: The Best Homemade Recipe for Comfort and Health

Description

Take the time to make Chicken Noodle Soup from scratch and you’ll never want it any other way. This hearty, flavorful soup is made with fresh vegetables, rotisserie chicken, homemade stock, and tender egg noodles for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 Tablespoon butter
2 ribs celery, diced
3–4 large carrots, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
10 cups chicken stock or broth
1 teaspoon salt, to taste
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/8 teaspoon dried rosemary, or more to taste
1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 batch homemade egg noodles or 4 cups dry egg noodles, farfalle, or other bite-size pasta
3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor (or chicken bouillon granules), as needed

Instructions

Add butter, diced celery, and carrots to a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Sauté for 3 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken stock and season with rosemary, thyme, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning as needed. Add Better Than Bouillon or bouillon granules if desired.
Bring the broth to a boil. Add noodles (homemade or store-bought) and cook just until al dente.
If using store-bought noodles, be careful not to overcook. Remove pot from heat as soon as noodles are tender; they will continue cooking slightly from residual heat.
Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, simmer the broth longer before adding noodles.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 4–5 days in the refrigerator.
Freeze broth and vegetables separately from noodles for up to 3 months.
Add lemon juice at the end for a bright finish.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 820 mg
Fat: 8 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg

Keywords: Chicken Noodle Soup, homemade soup, comfort food, healthy soup recipe, easy chicken soup