Chicken noodle soup – it’s like a warm hug in a bowl, isn’t it? A comfort food classic that’s been passed down for generations, a staple in almost every home, especially during the chilly months when we all crave something soothing. Now, imagine a recipe that takes this beloved dish to the next level, with just the right balance of flavors, textures, and richness. That’s exactly what Paula Deen’s Chicken Noodle Soup recipe brings to the table.
Paula Deen, known for her Southern hospitality and delicious, no-nonsense comfort food, has created a version of chicken noodle soup that combines simplicity with a burst of homey goodness. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd or just comforting yourself on a lazy day. Whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving something satisfying, this recipe is your go-to.
Chicken Noodle Soup Paula Deen Recipe
This recipe is more than just your basic chicken noodle soup. It’s made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a broth that’s rich and flavorful, but light enough to not overwhelm the senses. What makes this recipe special is how Paula Deen elevates it with her Southern touch. The soup has depth – from the seasonings to the fresh ingredients, every spoonful is comforting, filling, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients Needed
To recreate Paula Deen’s Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients that pack a punch in terms of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken (bone-in, skinless preferred) – This adds more flavor to the broth, and the bones contribute to a richer, more complex taste.
- Egg noodles – These are the traditional choice for chicken noodle soup, providing a perfect balance between texture and ease of use.
- Carrots (sliced) – They add sweetness and color to the soup.
- Celery (diced) – For a slight crunch and aromatic flavor.
- Yellow onion (diced) – Adds a savory base to the soup.
- Garlic (minced) – This aromatic ingredient adds depth and warmth.
- Chicken broth (low sodium) – This will be the heart of the soup’s flavor, so make sure it’s high-quality.
- Bay leaves – They infuse the broth with subtle earthiness.
- Thyme – Fresh thyme is a must to add a hint of herbal brightness.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, these seasonings will enhance all the flavors in the soup.
- Butter (optional) – Paula often uses butter to sauté the vegetables, giving the base of the soup extra richness.
- Parsley (optional) – For garnish, it brings freshness and a pop of color.
Cooking Instructions
Making Paula Deen’s chicken noodle soup is as easy as it is delicious. It’s all about layering flavors and giving each step time to shine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making it:
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Prepare The Chicken
- Start by placing the chicken in a large stockpot. Cover it with water, making sure the water level is about 2 inches above the chicken. Add a pinch of salt, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This is going to create your base broth, so don’t skip this step.
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Make The Soup Base
- While the chicken is cooking, heat some butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 7-10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
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Combine Broth And Vegetables
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred the meat. Discard the bones, and then add the shredded chicken back into the pot along with the sautéed vegetables.
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Simmer The Soup
- Pour in the chicken broth and add bay leaves and thyme. Bring everything to a simmer and cook for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add Noodles
- After the broth has simmered, toss in the egg noodles and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until tender. If the soup needs more liquid, feel free to add some more broth or water to get it to your desired consistency.
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Season And Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaves before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this soup plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. Here’s why these particular ingredients are so important:
- Chicken (bone-in, skinless): Using bone-in chicken is a game-changer because the bones release collagen into the broth, which results in a more flavorful, gelatinous texture that makes the soup feel heartier.
- Egg noodles: They’re the quintessential noodle for chicken noodle soup, absorbing just the right amount of broth and creating a satisfying bite.
- Carrots and celery: These vegetables provide a subtle sweetness and earthy flavor, balancing the savory notes from the chicken and broth.
- Thyme and bay leaves: These herbs are classic additions to chicken soup. Bay leaves offer a slightly floral, herbal undertone, while thyme adds a fresh, green flavor that brings everything together.
- Chicken broth (low sodium): The quality of the broth is crucial. A low-sodium version allows you to control the salt levels, ensuring your soup isn’t too salty. Plus, a flavorful broth is the backbone of the soup.
Expert Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, using a store-bought rotisserie chicken can be a real lifesaver. Just shred it and toss it into the broth-no need to simmer for hours!
- Make Your Own Broth: If you have the time and want to elevate the flavor, homemade chicken broth will take the soup to the next level. Simmer bones with some aromatics, and you’ll have a rich, flavorful base.
- Do Not Overcook the Noodles: Egg noodles can get mushy quickly, so it’s best to add them toward the end of the cooking process and keep an eye on them as they cook.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste is everything! If you find the soup needs more flavor, add a little extra thyme, bay leaf, or even a dash of garlic powder for that extra depth.
- Freeze the Soup: Chicken noodle soup freezes incredibly well. Make a double batch and store it in airtight containers for a rainy day.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: For a kick, add some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup. This will infuse a spicy warmth that gives a modern twist to the traditional recipe.
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: For a richer soup, stir in some heavy cream or a splash of half-and-half at the end of cooking. It adds a velvety smooth texture that’s just heavenly.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: For a meatless take, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with an assortment of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, peas, and spinach.
- Instant Pot Version: If you’re pressed for time, this recipe can easily be adapted to an Instant Pot. Just sauté the veggies, then cook the chicken on high pressure for about 10 minutes, shred it, and proceed as usual.
Final Words
This Chicken Noodle Soup recipe from Paula Deen is the epitome of comfort. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re an experienced cook or someone just starting out, this soup offers a foolproof way to create a meal that feels like home. The balance of ingredients, the depth of flavor, and the tender chicken all combine to make a soup that’s truly special.