Classic chicken noodle soup

Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It's the perfect comfort food to warm you up on a chilly day or when you're feeling under the weather. This recipe is simple to make, but it packs a flavor punch that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

2. Add the chicken and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until browned on all sides.

3. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are just starting to soften.

4. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.

6. Add the uncooked egg noodles and continue to simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked.

7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Variations:

- To make this soup even heartier, add diced potatoes or replace the noodles with rice or dumplings.
- For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the broth.

Tips:

- To save time, use pre-chopped frozen vegetables.
- Shred the chicken instead of cutting it into bite-sized pieces for a different texture.
- This soup can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion:

Chicken noodle soup is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make, hearty, and delicious. This recipe will warm you up on a chilly day and make you feel better when you're under the weather. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!