Chicken Noodle Soup No Celery Recipe

When you’re feeling under the weather or simply need something comforting to soothe your soul, there’s nothing like a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. But not all chicken noodle soups are created equal. This version, without celery, is a crowd-pleasing twist on the classic. It’s perfect for those who aren’t fans of the vegetable’s flavor or texture but still want the heartiness and warmth of the traditional recipe. This version is light, flavorful, and packed with all the delicious ingredients that make chicken noodle soup so irresistible. Let’s dive into a recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Chicken Noodle Soup No Celery Recipe

This hearty, comforting, and flavorful chicken noodle soup is made without celery but still delivers all the flavors you’d expect. It’s a simple, wholesome dish that uses basic pantry ingredients but packs a punch of flavor with each spoonful. Whether you’re in the mood for something to cure a cold or simply want a cozy meal to unwind, this soup will check all the boxes.

Ingredients Needed

For a delicious, celery-free chicken noodle soup, here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for the soup base. Chicken thighs, in particular, bring an extra richness to the broth.
• Carrots: These will be your primary vegetable, giving the soup a sweet, slightly earthy flavor and a nice crunch when cooked just right.
• Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the broth.
• Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic will elevate the soup with its aromatic, savory essence.
• Chicken Broth: You’ll want a good-quality chicken broth or stock for the base. This is where the richness of the soup comes from, so it’s worth choosing a flavorful one.
• Egg Noodles: The quintessential choice for chicken noodle soup. They absorb the broth wonderfully and add texture without overpowering the flavor.
• Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves will give the soup a fresh, herbal flavor and help deepen the overall taste.
• Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme is a classic herb in chicken soup, adding a warm, earthy tone.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, adjust to taste.
• Lemon Juice: Just a squeeze of fresh lemon juice will brighten up the flavor and balance out the richness of the broth.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the vegetables and starting the soup off with a rich base.

Cooking Instructions

This soup comes together quickly, and the process is simple enough that you won’t need to be chained to the stove for long. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the Chicken: If you’re using chicken breasts or thighs, season them lightly with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes, until the onions become translucent and the carrots start to soften. You’ll smell that savory aroma filling the air-it’s the first sign that your soup is on the right track.
3. Add the Broth: Once the veggies have softened, pour in your chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to get any tasty bits stuck to the pan. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the broth to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, until the carrots are tender and the broth is nicely infused with the herbs and vegetables.
4. Shred the Chicken: While the soup is simmering, shred the cooled chicken using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken back into the pot once the vegetables are tender.
5. Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook them in the broth for about 8-10 minutes, or until tender. The noodles will soak up some of the broth, adding even more flavor to the soup.
6. Finish the Soup: Once the noodles are cooked, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice. Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with some fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot. It’s the kind of meal that just begs to be slurped up with a side of crusty bread.

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken: When it comes to chicken noodle soup, the chicken is the star of the show. Opting for chicken thighs instead of breasts can add more depth and richness to your broth, as thighs are naturally more flavorful due to their higher fat content. But chicken breasts will still work wonderfully, giving you a leaner option. Both cuts are packed with protein, which will leave you feeling satisfied.
• Carrots: The carrots in this recipe offer a natural sweetness that balances the savory broth. They also bring a delightful color to the soup, making it more appetizing. Carrots are a great source of vitamins A and C, which help boost your immune system-perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather.
• Garlic and Onion: These two ingredients are essential for the base of any good soup. Garlic offers antibacterial properties, which is just another reason why this soup is a go-to when you’re fighting off a cold. Onions, rich in antioxidants, help to add a gentle depth of flavor that melds perfectly with the chicken and carrots.
• Egg Noodles: Their unique texture makes them a standout in chicken noodle soup. They are delicate yet absorbent, soaking up the rich, flavorful broth without becoming mushy.

Expert Tips

• Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, using homemade chicken broth will elevate the flavor of your soup. You can make a large batch ahead of time and store it for future meals.
• Season Gradually: When adding salt and pepper, it’s always best to taste and adjust as you go. Broths vary in sodium content, so it’s easier to add a little more salt later than to try and fix a soup that’s too salty.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles while they cook. They can go from perfectly tender to mushy in a matter of minutes, so be sure to check them regularly as the soup simmers.
• Save the Chicken Skin: If you’ve used bone-in chicken with skin, don’t throw that skin away! You can crisp it up in a skillet and serve it on top of the soup for extra texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Add Other Vegetables: While this recipe is intentionally without celery, you can always add other vegetables to suit your preferences. Try adding peas, corn, or even some green beans for more color and texture.
• Spicy Twist: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth. This will add an unexpected kick that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and noodles.
• Creamy Version: If you’re craving a richer, creamier soup, consider stirring in a bit of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking. This will make the broth more indulgent and velvety, perfect for a cozy, comfort-filled meal.
• Herb Variations: Instead of thyme, try using rosemary for a more robust herbal flavor, or even a little sage for a seasonal twist. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top right before serving can add a fresh, vibrant finish to your soup.

Final Words

This chicken noodle soup without celery is a simple, customizable recipe that offers comfort, warmth, and nourishment in every spoonful. It’s a great option for anyone who doesn’t enjoy celery but still craves the classic flavors of this beloved soup. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re under the weather or just looking for a cozy meal to enjoy.