Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups egg noodles; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Vitality Kitchen

I always crave a warm bowl of soup, especially during the colder months, and this Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup never disappoints. Packed with flavorful vegetables, tender chicken, and wholesome noodles, it warms both body and soul. I find that using fresh herbs elevates the taste significantly, and it’s an easy recipe I can whip up on a busy weeknight. Making this soup from scratch allows me to control the ingredients, making it not only healthy but also a comforting choice for my family.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-02-28T08:50:35.917Z

When I first decided to make Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup at home, I was surprised by how simple and delicious it could be. I used a mix of fresh vegetables, like carrots and celery, which gave the soup a vibrant color and a natural sweetness that elevates every spoonful. Cooking the chicken in the broth adds depth to the flavor, making every bite incredibly satisfying.

One of my favorite tricks is to add a dash of lemon juice just before serving; it brightens the entire dish and enhances the taste of the herbs. I've shared it with friends and family, and they always ask for the recipe – a true testament to how comforting and nourishing this soup is!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A wholesome and nourishing dish that brings warmth to any meal.
Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein for a healthy boost.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh vegetables in this soup significantly enhances its flavor and nutritional value. For this recipe, I highly recommend using organic carrots and celery, as they tend to have a deeper taste compared to their conventional counterparts. Fresh herbs, like parsley, not only provide a burst of color but also brighten up the dish. If fresh herbs aren't available, you can use dried, but add them during the early cooking stages to release their flavors effectively.

The choice of chicken can also impact the soup's taste. I prefer using skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, though thighs can add more richness. If you're in a pinch, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut; simply shred it and add it to the broth. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning as store-bought chicken can often contain salt.

Perfecting the Broth

The base of this healthy chicken noodle soup lies in the chicken broth. Opting for low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the soup and layers of flavor. If time permits, you can make your own broth by simmering chicken bones with aromatic vegetables for a couple of hours, which yields a richer flavor. When adding the broth, observe the boiling point carefully—bringing it to a steady boil ensures the noodles cook properly without becoming mushy.

If you desire more depth, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of miso paste to the broth. This slight addition can elevate the umami flavor of the soup without overpowering the freshness of the vegetables and herbs. Adjust these ingredients based on your taste preference.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This chicken noodle soup is not only comforting on the day you make it but also gets better over time. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the noodles from becoming too soggy, it's best to store the soup and noodles separately if possible. You can always cook a fresh batch of noodles when reheating, which keeps the texture pleasant.

When reheating, do so on a medium heat until just steaming. Avoid boiling it as this can cause the noodles to break down and lose their texture. If the soup appears too thick, feel free to add a splash of water or additional broth to reach your desired consistency. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning again after reheating, as flavors can change with storage.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your soup delicious and nutritious:

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups egg noodles
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to chop your vegetables uniformly for even cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a hearty bowl of soup:

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, or until softened.

Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and oregano. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Build the Base

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and egg noodles.

Simmer and Season

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finish and Serve

Just before serving, stir in the lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your nourishing creation!

Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a delightful meal!

Pro Tips

For a gluten-free version, use whole grain or gluten-free noodles. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.

Creative Variations

While this recipe is delightful as is, feel free to play with the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a heartier option, you can add beans or lentils alongside the chicken for added protein and fiber. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, substitute the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or quinoa, which will provide a unique twist on the traditional dish.

For an extra kick, consider incorporating fresh ginger or a dash of chili flakes during the sautéing stage. This will impart warmth and spice, making the soup even more comforting on chilly days. Don't hesitate to experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand; green beans, peas, or bell peppers could all work well in this recipe.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making chicken noodle soup is ending up with overcooked noodles. To prevent this, keep an eye on the cooking time once the noodles are added; they generally take around 5–7 minutes to cook. If you notice them starting to become too soft, it's best to skip simmering time and serve right away to maintain that perfect al dente texture.

Another potential hurdle is the seasoning. If your soup tastes bland, it might just need a touch more salt or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. I always recommend tasting as you go, adjusting the salt, pepper, and acidity until the broth has a well-rounded flavor that sings with freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your healthy chicken noodle soup in deep bowls, topped with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with whole-grain bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. I love to enjoy mine with a slice of crusty baguette, perfect for dipping into the warm broth.

For those looking to elevate their soup experience, consider a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of pesto on top, which adds a savory richness. A sprinkle of chili oil or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can also bring another layer of flavor without too much extra effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers.

→ What noodles are best for this recipe?

Egg noodles work great, but feel free to use any kind of pasta you prefer, just adjust cooking times accordingly.