If you’re someone who finds comfort in a warm, steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup, then you’re in for a treat with this special recipe. Chicken noodle soup has been a beloved dish for generations, cherished for its heartwarming qualities, its soothing nature when you’re under the weather, and its ability to bring a sense of nostalgia. But there’s something even better about homemade soup-it’s a canvas for creativity, allowing you to craft a version that is tailored exactly to your preferences. That’s where Chang’s Chicken Noodle Soup comes in.
This recipe brings together all the flavors we know and love from traditional chicken noodle soup, but with an extra layer of depth and complexity. Chang, known for his culinary flair, has perfected a version that strikes the perfect balance between savory, hearty, and fresh. Packed with tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and comforting noodles, this recipe will quickly become your go-to whenever you crave a warm and nourishing meal.
So, whether you’re familiar with making chicken noodle soup or this is your first time trying it, don’t worry. This recipe will walk you through every step, helping you create a dish that’s nothing short of spectacular. And, of course, we’ll cover all the little details-from the ingredients to expert tips-so you can make this soup as delicious as possible.
Chang’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Here’s how to make Chang’s Chicken Noodle Soup, step by step. We’ve included all the details you’ll need to know to create this dish perfectly.
Ingredients Needed
Before diving into cooking, let’s gather everything we’ll need. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Chicken breasts or thighs – 2 boneless, skinless (thighs add a richer flavor, but breasts work too!)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (to sauté)
- Carrots – 2 medium-sized, peeled and sliced
- Celery stalks – 2, chopped
- Yellow onion – 1 large, chopped
- Garlic cloves – 3, minced
- Chicken broth – 6 cups (low-sodium is ideal)
- Bay leaves – 2
- Thyme – 2 teaspoons (fresh or dried)
- Egg noodles – 1 ½ cups (you can substitute with other pasta types like fusilli or farfalle for a twist)
- Salt and pepper – to taste (I recommend using sea salt for a cleaner taste)
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon (optional, for a subtle zing)
- Parmesan cheese – grated, for topping (optional, but adds a wonderful umami kick)
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for the best chicken noodle soup you’ve ever made.
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Prepare The Chicken
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add your chicken breasts or thighs and cook them until they’re golden on both sides (about 4-5 minutes per side). Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked through, as they will finish cooking in the broth. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool.
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Sauté The Veggies
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Toss in the chopped carrots, celery, and onions. Sauté for about 6-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. You want to build up a nice base flavor here. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
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Build The Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth, and add the bay leaves and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This simmering process lets all the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Cook The Chicken & Noodles
- While the broth is simmering, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces (you can use two forks or your hands). After the soup has simmered for 20 minutes, add the chicken back to the pot along with the egg noodles. Continue to simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
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Season & Final Touches
- Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you want a little extra brightness, squeeze in the lemon juice to balance the flavors. Remove the bay leaves and thyme stems (if using fresh thyme). Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this chicken noodle soup plays a critical role in the overall flavor profile. Let’s break down a few key ones:
- Chicken: The chicken is the heart of the soup. Using chicken thighs instead of breasts imparts a richer, more savory flavor due to the higher fat content. However, chicken breasts are leaner and work just as well if you prefer a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions (often referred to as the ’holy trinity’ of soup-making) provide the aromatic base. These vegetables give the soup a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Thyme: Thyme’s earthy and slightly minty flavor is a classic herb in chicken soup recipes. It brings balance and an herbaceous layer that complements the richness of the chicken broth.
- Egg Noodles: Egg noodles have a soft, silky texture that makes them a perfect addition to chicken noodle soup. They absorb the flavors of the broth and hold up well during the cooking process.
Expert Tips
To elevate your chicken noodle soup and make it truly special, try incorporating these expert tips:
- Homemade Broth: If you have the time, consider using homemade chicken broth for a deeper, more authentic flavor. Simply simmer chicken bones with aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery for a few hours.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Noodles tend to get mushy if overcooked. To avoid this, cook them separately and add them to the soup right before serving, or reduce the cooking time to just tender.
- Flavor Boost: Adding a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce can enhance the umami flavors of the broth. Just use a teaspoon at first to avoid overpowering the taste.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and freeze individual portions. This way, you’ll always have comfort food ready when you need it.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can make several adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth as the base. You can add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to give your soup a bit of heat. This adds a nice contrast to the rich chicken broth.
- Different Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, you can experiment with other types of pasta like bowtie, penne, or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: For a richer, creamier version, add ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the soup after cooking, and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine.
Final Words
Chang’s Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with all the right ingredients that warm your soul with every spoonful. Whether you’re looking to nourish your body or simply indulge in a delicious meal, this recipe will do the trick.
By following the steps, paying attention to ingredient quality, and adding your personal touches, you’ll have a dish that’s every bit as satisfying as it is delicious.