Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery ribs, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 6 oz wide egg noodles, about 3 cups
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Classic Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
- Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots and celery and cook, stirring now and then, until the onion is soft.
- Add the garlic and stir 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in the broth and add the whole chicken pieces, thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer, partly covered, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
- Lift out the chicken onto a cutting board and shred it with two forks. Remove the bay leaf.
- Bring the broth back to a boil, add the noodles and cook until tender.
- Stir the chicken back in with the parsley and lemon juice. Taste and add more salt if needed, then ladle into bowls.
- Cook to 165°F inside (check with a thermometer).