Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. That’s how Southern flavors settle and sing. Keep noodles separate until serving for best texture.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Absolutely. Bone-in will give a deeper stock. Simmer a little longer and strain the broth before adding meat back in.

How do I keep the broth clear?

Skim the surface during the first boil and strain if you like a clearer look. Simmer gently, not aggressively, to avoid clouding.

What is the best noodle to use?

Egg noodles are classic and tender. Choose medium-width so they hold up to a bowl without swallowing the broth.

Is there a slow cooker version?

Yes. Brown the veg first, then put everything in the crock pot on low for six to eight hours. Add noodles at the end for a fresh texture.

The Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup 2026

Name: The Best Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 medium yellow onion; 3 garlic cloves; 4 carrots; 2 ribs celery; 1 Tbsp fresh parsley; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried basil; ½ tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; ¼ tsp black pepper; 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 8 cups chicken broth; 6 oz. egg noodles

Description

A comforting chicken noodle soup that warms the heart and brings family together with its rich flavors and tender ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium yellow onion
3 garlic cloves
4 carrots
2 ribs celery
1 Tbsp fresh parsley
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
¼ tsp black pepper
2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
8 cups chicken broth
6 oz. egg noodles

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Instructions

Gather all ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
Dice the onion, mince garlic, peel and dice carrots and celery. Set the parsley aside.
In a large pot over medium heat, sauté olive oil, onion, carrots, and celery until softened (about 6 minutes).
Add garlic and seasonings; cook for another 5 minutes.
Place chicken breasts in the pot and cover with chicken broth.
Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for one hour.
Remove chicken to shred once cooled; return shredded chicken to the pot.
Add uncooked egg noodles; cook until tender (about 7 minutes).
Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Notes

Use room temperature chicken for even cooking. Keep noodles separate when storing for best texture. You can add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end for brightness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 400
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg