During the cooler months, there's nothing like digging into a bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. The classic dish is both hearty and soothing, whether you're feeling under the weather or just craving a cozy meal.
What's more, chicken noodle soup is delightfully easy to customize. Just take a look at the following versions made with rotisserie chicken, chicken meatballs and plant-based chick'n. The basic steps for making each one are the same; it all comes down to the ingredients you use.
Video of the Day
Ready to make a healthy and comforting homemade meal? Read on to learn how to make chicken soup in three different ways.
Video: Chicken Noodle Soup 3 Ways
Chicken Noodle Soup With Rotisserie Chicken
Things You'll Need
1 Tbsp. butter or oil
1/2 yellow or white onion, diced
2 celery sticks, sliced
3 or 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
10 cups chicken broth
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
3 Tbsp. fresh thyme
3 Tbsp. fresh oregano
8 oz. (2 cups) uncooked pasta
2 to 3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
2 cups kale (optional)
Tip
Rotisserie chicken is a delicious shortcut, but you're welcome to use any type of cooked chicken.
1. Cook vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, warm the butter or oil. Add the onions, celery, carrots, salt, pepper, thyme and oregano. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add broth
Pour the broth into the pot. Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until the broth has slightly reduced.
Tip
If you don't have enough chicken broth, you can replace some of the listed amount with water.
3. Add pasta and chicken
Add the pasta and cook for the time listed on the packaging.
Follow with the shredded rotisserie chicken and kale (if using) and cook for 5 minutes or until the chicken is heated through.
Top with fresh herbs and then serve with crackers or your favorite crusty bread.
Chicken Noodle Soup With Meatballs
Instead of rotisserie chicken, add a batch of store-bought or homemade chicken meatballs for a cozy twist. Be sure to cook the meatballs thoroughly before adding them to the soup.
Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
For a vegan-friendly version, use egg-free pasta. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace the chicken with plant-based chick'n strips; Gardein and MorningStar are two popular brands.
Stay warm!