Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup is an iconic comfort food that has been a staple in American kitchens for decades. It’s one of those dishes that evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia, whether you’re recovering from a cold, sitting down to a cozy dinner, or simply craving something hearty. While it’s easy to grab a can from the store, making your own homemade version offers a whole new level of flavor and satisfaction.
Homemade chicken noodle soup doesn’t just taste better, it also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to suit your preferences. The process might seem simple, but the end result is an irresistibly rich and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Campbell Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This recipe draws inspiration from the famous Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup but gives it a personal, homemade twist. We’ll keep things simple but flavorful, ensuring that the end product is as comforting as that classic canned version-only fresher and more robust.
Ingredients Needed
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a look at what you’ll need. These ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and many of them are pantry staples.
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Chicken
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great here).
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Broth
- 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought).
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Noodles
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any small, hearty pasta like rotini or ditalini).
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Vegetables
- 1 cup carrots (sliced thin or diced).
- 1 cup celery (diced).
- 1 medium onion (diced).
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Garlic
- 2 cloves garlic (minced).
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Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried thyme.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary.
- 2 bay leaves.
- Salt & pepper (to taste).
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Olive Oil
- For sautéing vegetables (optional, or you can use butter for a richer flavor).
These are the basic ingredients, but feel free to adapt based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making this delicious homemade chicken noodle soup. It’s easier than you think, and in about 45 minutes, you’ll have a steaming pot of soup ready to enjoy.
Step 1: Sauté The Vegetables
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or butter if you prefer a richer taste).
- Once the oil is heated, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Broth & Seasonings
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add in the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine, and taste the broth.
- Season with salt and pepper to your liking. This is your chance to adjust the flavor before the noodles are added.
Step 3: Add Noodles & Chicken
- Once the broth is boiling, stir in the egg noodles (or your chosen pasta).
- Reduce the heat to medium and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
- Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it into the soup. Let it cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
Step 4: Taste & Adjust
- Taste the soup one last time to check for seasoning. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with some fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad for a full meal.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s break down a few key ingredients to understand how they work together to create the perfect chicken noodle soup.
- Chicken: The heart of the soup! You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or if you have the time, cook your own chicken breasts or thighs for a deeper flavor. Shredding the chicken ensures that it distributes evenly throughout the soup, so every spoonful has that comforting bite of tender chicken.
- Chicken Broth: A good broth is crucial for a rich soup base. Homemade chicken broth is ideal, but if you’re using store-bought, opt for low-sodium versions so you can control the seasoning. Adding herbs like thyme and rosemary will give your broth that homemade depth of flavor.
- Egg Noodles: These are the quintessential noodles for chicken noodle soup. They’re light, soft, and perfect for absorbing the broth. However, you can substitute them with other small pasta like orzo, bowtie, or even rice if you prefer.
- Carrots, Celery, and Onion: The holy trinity of soup vegetables! Together, they provide sweetness, earthiness, and a bit of crunch. They also serve as the foundation for the soup’s flavor profile.
Expert Tips
- Flavor Base: Before adding the broth, you can add a splash of white wine or a dollop of tomato paste to the sautéed vegetables to create an even richer flavor base. It’s a simple trick that elevates the taste.
- Low and Slow: While the recipe works quickly, you can simmer the soup on low for longer to deepen the flavors. Just be sure to check the noodles occasionally so they don’t overcook and get mushy.
- Broth Thickness: If you like a thicker soup, you can whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour mixed with a bit of water toward the end of cooking to give the broth more body.
- Make It Ahead: Chicken noodle soup actually tastes better the next day. Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months (though the noodles might soften upon reheating).
Recipe Variations
Chicken noodle soup is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to experiment with the ingredients to suit your tastes.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a subtle kick of heat.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil to give the soup a fresh and aromatic twist. Fresh thyme is also great if you’re looking for something a bit different.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken entirely and substitute with tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully plant-based soup.
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for a creamier, more decadent version of the soup.
Final Words
This homemade version of Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup is everything you’ve loved about the classic, but with added depth and flavor. By using fresh ingredients and taking the time to prepare your own broth, you’re creating a soup that not only comforts, but also nourishes. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, or just in need of something familiar, this recipe delivers on every front.