This cozy Garlic Herb Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender chicken, wholesome noodles, and loads of tasty herbs that make it super flavorful.
Whenever I’m feeling under the weather, this soup is my go-to. Plus, it’s quick to whip up on busy nights, and nothing beats that lovely smell wafting from the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great base for this soup, but you can swap it for butter or even vegetable oil if that’s what you have on hand. Personally, I think butter adds extra richness!
Onion: Use a yellow onion for sweetness. If you don’t have one, shallots or even leeks can be a fantastic alternative, bringing a different but delightful flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma. If fresh is tricky, try using garlic powder in a pinch. Just remember, one clove equals about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Chicken Broth: Low sodium broth helps control salt levels. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use water combined with bouillon cubes for quick flavor. Homemade stock can elevate this soup even further!
Pasta: I used rotini, but any short pasta like shell or fusilli works great. If gluten is a concern, feel free to use gluten-free pasta or even brown rice!
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Tender Vegetables?
Getting your veggies just right makes all the difference! To ensure they’re tender but not mushy, follow these tips:
- Sauté the veggies on medium heat first; it softens them and brings out the flavor.
- Add carrots and celery first, since they take longer to cook. Throw in the garlic towards the end to prevent burning.
- Keep an eye during the simmering stage; overcooking can turn them mushy. Aim for a nice, tender bite.
Garlic Herb Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Herb Chicken Noodle Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of comforting soup in about 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Begin with the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent. This step adds a great flavor base to your soup.
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, toss in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery into the pot. Cook this mixture for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. You’ll love the lovely aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, carefully pour in the chicken broth. Add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley. Stir everything together, then bring the soup to a boil. This is where the flavors really start to meld together!
4. Add the Chicken:
Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and let it simmer gently for a few minutes to heat through.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Add the rotini pasta to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta and vegetables are tender. Give it a stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6. Season to Taste:
Taste your soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Feel free to add more herbs here if you like it extra fragrant!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Garlic Herb Chicken Noodle Soup, perfect for warming you up from the inside out!
Warm and delightful, this soup is what comfort food dreams are made of!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor to the soup. Just shred the chicken from the bones and add it to the soup as directed.
Can I Freeze the Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Vegetables?
No worries! You can substitute the fresh vegetables with frozen mixed vegetables. Just toss them in the soup during the last few minutes of cooking until heated through. This keeps the prep quick and easy!
How Can I Make This Soup Creamier?
If you prefer a creamier version of this soup, stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. This will add a lovely richness to the broth!
