Bavarian Inn Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

When it comes to comforting, soul-warming meals, few things hit the spot quite like a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. Now, picture this: a rich, flavorful broth brimming with tender chunks of chicken, soft noodles, and an array of vegetables that have simmered together to create a savory masterpiece. It’s the perfect meal to chase away the chill or lift your spirits on a cloudy day.

One version of this timeless dish that has garnered a loyal following is the Bavarian Inn Chicken Noodle Soup. Inspired by the hearty, rustic flavors of Bavaria, this soup brings a unique twist to a classic. It combines the cozy familiarity of chicken noodle soup with the depth of flavor typically found in German cuisine. What’s more, the recipe is simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients and straightforward cooking methods that yield impressive results.

So, let’s dive deep into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Bavarian Inn Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

This recipe delivers all the comforts of a traditional chicken noodle soup but with a Bavarian flair. Think of it as a culinary hug in a bowl, featuring savory chicken, aromatic herbs, and rich, satisfying noodles. You’ll have a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner gathering or simply enjoy a cozy, hearty meal at home.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make this Bavarian Inn Chicken Noodle Soup:

• Chicken – You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (either will work) to form the heart of the soup. I recommend going with thighs if you want a slightly richer flavor.
• Chicken Broth – A high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth is essential to getting a well-balanced, flavorful base for your soup.
• Noodles – Wide egg noodles are the traditional choice here. They soak up the broth beautifully and have a lovely texture that complements the soup’s richness.
• Carrots – For sweetness and color. Carrots add a subtle earthiness that contrasts with the savory chicken.
• Celery – Celery brings a refreshing crunch and slight bitterness that balances out the rich broth.
• Onion – Yellow onion adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the overall flavor of the soup.
• Garlic – A few cloves of garlic minced or crushed bring aromatic depth and fragrance to the base.
• Bay Leaves – Adds a subtle herbal note that infuses the broth with complexity.
• Thyme – A classic herb in German cooking, thyme adds an earthy, slightly floral flavor.
• Parsley – Fresh parsley is the finishing touch. It brightens the soup and adds a bit of color and freshness.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to balance out the soup’s flavor. You can always adjust these to taste.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s break down how to put everything together step-by-step. Follow these easy instructions to prepare your Bavarian Inn Chicken Noodle Soup:

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • Start by cooking your chicken. You can either poach it in the broth or sauté it in a skillet, depending on your preferred method. Poaching the chicken in the broth will give you a more flavorful result since it infuses the meat with the savory base of the soup. If you choose to sauté, cook the chicken until golden on both sides, then shred it once it’s cooked through.

2. Cook The Vegetables

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they soften and the onions become translucent.
   • Add the garlic and cook for another minute, just until it’s fragrant. This will infuse the oil with garlic’s delicious aroma.

3. Build The Soup

   • Pour in the chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring everything to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Add The Chicken & Noodles

   • If you haven’t already, shred the poached or sautéed chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken and noodles to the pot. Stir everything together, then cover and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through.

5. Season To Taste

   • Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. You may also want to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

6. Finish With Fresh Herbs

   • Stir in freshly chopped parsley just before serving to brighten up the flavor of the soup.

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken: Chicken breasts offer a leaner cut of meat, but thighs are often preferred for their moisture and richer flavor. Thighs, in particular, absorb more of the broth’s flavors, making them ideal for soups.
• Broth: Opt for a high-quality chicken broth-homemade if possible. Store-bought options often contain extra sodium, so low-sodium versions are your best bet.
• Herbs: The use of thyme and bay leaves in this soup really elevates the flavor profile. Thyme is earthy and slightly minty, while bay leaves add a gentle, aromatic backdrop that makes the broth more complex.

Expert Tips

• To make the broth even richer: Add a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking for a creamy variation of the soup. This can be particularly comforting when the weather turns colder.
• For extra flavor: Roast the chicken before adding it to the soup. Roasting the chicken gives it a caramelized, roasted flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Use rotisserie chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully. Just shred it and toss it in after the broth has been simmering.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: Noodles can become mushy quickly if cooked too long. Make sure to add them when you’re ready to simmer, and check them periodically to avoid overcooking.
• Make-ahead tip: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even better on the second day!

Recipe Variations

1. Herb variations: Swap out the thyme for rosemary or sage for a different herbal twist. These herbs pair especially well with the chicken and add a more woodsy flavor to the soup.
2. Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to create a creamy version of the soup. This variation gives it a rich, velvety texture.
3. Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth with additional vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms. You can also add a can of white beans for added protein.
4. Spicy version: Toss in some fresh chilies, red pepper flakes, or even a touch of cayenne pepper to spice things up a bit.
5. Add potatoes: For a heartier soup, add diced potatoes. These absorb the broth and give you an even more filling meal.

Final Words

This Bavarian Inn Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect blend of simple comfort and bold flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re craving something to warm you up on a cold day or you want to impress guests with a homemade dish, this recipe is sure to deliver.