Name: Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon butter; ½ cup chopped onion; ½ cup chopped celery; 4 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth; 1 (14.5 ounce) can vegetable broth; ½ pound chopped cooked chicken breast; 1 ½ cups egg noodles; 1 cup sliced carrots; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; salt and ground black pepper to taste

There’s something truly comforting about a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup, especially when it comes together quickly and easily. This Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is exactly what you want when you need something hearty, warm, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. I love how it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather but don’t want to compromise on flavor.

What makes this soup special for me is the simple yet flavorful combination of broths and herbs that elevate it beyond the usual canned stuff, and the tender egg noodles soak up all that goodness so well. Once you get the hang of this Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, you’ll find yourself turning to it again and again—whether it’s to brighten up a dreary day or to feed family and friends with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture, creating a soup that’s both nourishing and delicious. When you shop, look for fresh veggies and good-quality broths—they really make a difference here.

Butter: Adds richness and helps soften the veggies without overpowering the soup’s natural flavors.
Chopped onion: Offers sweetness and depth—you’ll want them finely chopped for even cooking.
Chopped celery: Gives a nice crunch and subtle earthiness that balances the soup.
Chicken broth: The main flavor base; using canned broth is fine, but homemade broth will boost flavor.
Vegetable broth: Adds complexity and rounds out the chicken broth’s taste.
Chopped cooked chicken breast: Keeps this soup quick—using pre-cooked chicken saves tons of time.
Egg noodles: Traditional in chicken noodle soup and cook up tender and satisfying.
Sliced carrots: Add sweetness and vibrant color—slice them evenly so they cook perfectly.
Dried basil: A delicate herb that adds a touch of aromatic flair.
Dried oregano: Brings warm, slightly peppery notes complementing the basil.
Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together—adjust to your taste.

Variations

This Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is so adaptable, and I’ve found it fun to mix things up depending on what I have in the fridge or pantry. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Use leftover roast chicken: I often toss in shredded bits from a Sunday roast—it adds extra flavor and reduces waste.
Swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta: Great if you’re serving someone with dietary restrictions—cooks just as well!
Add fresh herbs: When I have fresh parsley or thyme on hand, I like throwing them in at the end for brightness.
Make it vegetarian: Just replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead—still cozy and tasty.

How to Make Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by melting the butter over medium heat in a large pot. Toss in your chopped onion and celery, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant—about 4 to 5 minutes. This step is key for developing a rich base, so don’t rush it! If you notice your onions browning too quickly, turn the heat down slightly.

Step 2: Add Broths and Carrots

Pour in the chicken broth and vegetable broth, then add your sliced carrots. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. I like to keep it simmering for about 10 minutes here until the carrots start to soften but still have a bit of bite—perfect for texture in the finished soup.

Step 3: Season and Add Chicken

Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Stir in the chopped cooked chicken breast, letting it warm through while the flavors mingle. Using pre-cooked chicken means you’re mostly heating it gently, so it stays tender and juicy.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles directly to the soup pot, keeping the heat at a low boil. Cook according to the noodle package’s instructions—usually around 6 to 8 minutes—until just tender. Watch closely because noodles can turn mushy fast if left too long; you want them al dente for the best experience.

How to Serve Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I usually finish my bowls with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few cracked black peppercorns. Sometimes, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens things up beautifully, especially if you’re feeling fancy or want to add a little zing. And if you love a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes works wonders.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty bread or classic grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting, satisfying meal. I’m a sucker for a warm baguette slathered with butter, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the soup nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

When I want to impress guests, I serve the soup in mini bread bowls—it’s cozy and fun! For a casual family dinner, a big pot on the table with bowls passed around creates the perfect communal vibe. You can even add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for extra indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover chicken noodle soup in airtight containers in the fridge, and it keeps beautifully for up to 3 days. Pro tip: Keep the noodles separate if you can, as they tend to soak up too much broth and become mushy overnight. If separating isn’t possible, just add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen things up.

Freezing

Freezing this soup works really well, but I recommend omitting the noodles if you plan to freeze. They don’t freeze and reheat well, turning gummy or mushy. Instead, freeze the broth, veggies, and chicken together, then cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. If you stored noodles separately, add them in during the last minute of warming. Microwaving works too but be sure to stir halfway through to heat evenly without drying out the soup.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?

Absolutely! Just thaw the chicken first and shred or chop it before adding to the soup. To save time, leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken from the store works wonderfully without compromising on flavor.
How do I make this Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe gluten-free?

Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles. Just cook them separately and add at the end to avoid overcooking.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the veggies first, then add all ingredients except the noodles to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in egg noodles during the last 20-30 minutes to cook through.
What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

The best way is to cook noodles separately or add them to the soup just before serving. Overcooked noodles can absorb broth and become mushy, which dials down the texture.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Frozen peas, corn, or green beans work nicely and add extra color and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking times so everything stays tender-crisp.

Final Thoughts

This Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day or a soothing balm when life gets hectic. If you’re looking for a classic that’s straightforward to make and delivers so much comfort, I genuinely recommend you give this one a try. You’ll not only enjoy the process but also the cozy, satisfying bowls you’ll be serving up for family and friends—trust me, your kitchen will thank you for it!