As the first chill of autumn settles in, there’s a special joy in creating something warm and comforting in the kitchen. I found myself yearning for the nostalgic taste of homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, a dish that never fails to wrap me in its embrace. The soothing aroma of simmering chicken and fragrant herbs fills my home, reminding me of cozy afternoons spent sharing laughter and stories around the dinner table.

This Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup is not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt remedy for a long day, a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a savory broth brimming with fresh vegetables, it’s a recipe that invites creativity while celebrating wholesome ingredients. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how it can adapt to your taste preferences, making it a true staple for every home chef. So grab your pot, and let’s dive into this comforting classic together!

Why is Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup a favorite?

Comforting Warmth: This recipe envelops you in warmth with every spoonful—perfect for chilly evenings.
Easy Preparation: Just a few simple steps are all it takes to bring this hearty dish to life.
Savory Depth: The rich broth combined with fresh vegetables creates a flavor that dances on your palate.
Versatile Options: Customize with your favorite veggies or herbs to suit your tastes.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress.
For a delightful twist on a classic, try pairing this with our Delightful Chicken Apple salad for a meal everyone will love!

Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients

• Here’s what you need for a warm bowl of comfort!

For the Soup Base

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics; can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
Butter – Contributes to flavor depth; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
Yellow Onion – Provides a sweet, savory base flavor when cooked; make sure to dice it finely.
Celery – Adds crunch and enhances the flavor profile; slice it thinly.
Carrots – Provides natural sweetness and vibrant color; thinly sliced for even cooking.
Garlic – Aromatic and elevates overall flavor; mince it for maximum impact.
Low Sodium Chicken Broth – The hearty liquid base of the soup; adjust between 10 to 12 cups for your preferred brothiness.

For the Seasoning

Fresh Thyme – Brings a delightful herby note; dried thyme works in a pinch if fresh isn’t available.
Bay Leaves – An essential for adding depth of flavor during simmering.
Skinless, Bone-In Chicken Breasts – The protein powerhouse; use about 2 pounds for a satisfying heartiness.
Salt – Essential for enhancing flavor; start with 1¼ teaspoons and adjust to personal preference.
Black Pepper – Adds a mild kick and depth; begins with ½ teaspoon and adjust if desired.

For the Noodles

Carba-Nada Noodles – My go-to for this comforting dish; tends to hold up well in soup. Consider wide egg noodles as an alternative.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish with a pop of color and flavor; chop before sprinkling on top.
Lemon Wedges – Provides a zesty brightness when served; a squeeze directly into your bowl can elevate flavors beautifully.

Enjoy these Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup ingredients as you create a warm, nourishing bowl that will surely become a cherished favorite in your home!

How to Make Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup

Heat Oils: In a large pot, warm the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted, creating a rich base for our soup. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onions to the pot and sauté them for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds the sweet foundation of flavor.
Add Veggies: Toss in the thinly sliced celery and carrots. Cook these for an additional 5-7 minutes to soften slightly, allowing their natural sweetness to release.
Flavor It Up: Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for just 1 minute until it becomes fragrant and aromatic. This will elevate the entire soup, marrying the flavors beautifully.
Combine Broth & Chicken: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and add the fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Nestle the skinless, bone-in chicken breasts into the pot, seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender.
Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Shred or dice it, then return it to the pot, stirring to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cook Noodles: Add the Carba-Nada noodles to the boiling broth and cook according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they reach your desired tenderness.
Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing each with freshly chopped parsley and a lemon wedge for that zesty touch. Enjoy the warmth and nourishment of your creation!

Optional: Try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup Variations

Add your unique twist to this classic comfort dish with these delightful adjustments!

Vegetable Medley: Toss in peas, corn, or green beans for a pop of color and added nutrition. They’ll bring a lovely freshness to each bowl.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh rosemary or oregano to add new layers of flavor. A small tweak can make a big impact, evoking the fragrant essence of an inviting herb garden.
Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño. Feel the warmth spread throughout, turning this wholesome soup into a satisfying, fiery experience.
Whole Wheat Alternative: Substitute Carba-Nada noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for a healthier option. They still hold their shape while adding multifaceted flavors to your comforting creation.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for a richer soup. This luxurious addition will elevate the creamy consistency, turning your soup into a soul-soothing delight.
Zesty Spark: Add a squeeze of lime juice instead of lemon for a tangy twist on the classic finish. This refreshing touch will brighten the dish and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Rotisserie Shortcuts: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, adding it towards the end of cooking to save time. It’s an easy way to infuse extra flavor paired with the heartiness of your homemade broth.
Protein Boost: Incorporate some cooked chickpeas or white beans for added protein and heartiness. These substitutions will not only enrich the dish but also make it a little more filling!

How to Store and Freeze Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth for moisture.

Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, ensuring there’s room for expansion.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop until hot. Add fresh noodles if desired to maintain texture, as frozen noodles can become mushy.

Separation Tip: For best results, store noodles separately if you expect leftovers; this prevents them from soaking up too much broth.

What to Serve with Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup?

Create the perfect meal that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds with these delightful pairings.

Crusty Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping, soaking up every bit of that savory broth and adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a vibrant contrast, balancing the warmth of the soup.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm breadsticks or slices complements the soup beautifully, making for a delightful bite full of flavor.
Herb-Infused Rice: Pairing your soup with rice infused with herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a fragrant, hearty element that enhances the overall dining experience.
Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy, cheesy quesadillas serve as a fun and flavorful side that adds texture and pairs perfectly with the warm broth.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a citrus twist brightens the meal, providing a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling water with a splash of lemon revitalizes and enhances your dining experience, perfect for a cozy evening.
Mini Chicken Pot Pies: As a delightful twist, serving mini chicken pot pies alongside the soup makes for an engaging meal bursting with flavor, matching the comforting theme.

Each pairing brings unique textures and flavors, inviting you and your loved ones to savor this wholesome experience together.

Expert Tips for Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup

• Season to Taste: Always taste the broth after simmering to adjust the salt and spice levels. Your preference may vary, so this is essential for a flavorful soup.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of your vegetables can enhance the soup’s taste. Try to use fresh thyme and quality chicken broth for the best results.

• Noodle Advice: If making ahead, cook the noodles separately to prevent them from getting soggy. Add them to the soup just before serving for a perfect texture.

• Shortcuts Welcome: For a quicker soup, consider using rotisserie chicken. Add it in the last few minutes to warm through and keep it flavorful.

• Storage Tip: If you plan to store leftovers, it’s best to keep the noodles separate. They can absorb the broth and become mushy, so add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.

Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this soup?
I recommend using skinless, bone-in chicken breasts as they yield tender, flavorful meat that is perfect for simmering. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep—just add it at the end to warm it through!

How should I store leftovers?
Store your Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, I suggest adding a splash of broth to maintain the soup’s moisture and richness.

Can I freeze Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. For reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding freshly cooked noodles if you prefer.

What if my noodles become mushy in the soup?
If you anticipate leftovers, it’s best to cook the noodles separately. Storing them in the soup can cause them to absorb too much broth and become soggy. Just add them fresh when you’re ready to serve!

How can I adjust the seasoning in my soup?
Always taste your broth for seasoning after simmering. I suggest starting with 1¼ teaspoons of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper; then, adjust to your preference based on how well the flavors have melded. This way, you can achieve the perfect level of richness for your taste.

What ingredients can I swap for dietary considerations?
Feel free to modify this Stovetop Chicken Noodle Soup recipe to accommodate dietary needs. Use margarine instead of butter for dairy-free options, and swap in fresh or frozen vegetables based on what you have on hand!