There are few things more comforting than a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup. This classic dish warms you from the inside out and is exactly what you crave on chilly evenings or when you need a little TLC. Made with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked egg noodles, it brings together simple ingredients to create something deeply satisfying.

The best part is, it doesn’t require anything fancy to make. In fact, it’s often the humble recipes that leave the biggest impression. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply want a wholesome meal the whole family will love, this chicken noodle soup will hit the spot every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

This soup is more than just a comfort food favorite—it’s also a nourishing, budget-friendly option for busy weeknights. You can prep it ahead of time, freeze it for later, or make a big batch to feed a crowd. It’s loaded with flavor, thanks to the rich broth and aromatic vegetables, and comes together in one pot.

Another reason to love it? It’s endlessly customizable. Add more herbs, toss in extra veggies, or use your preferred type of noodles. The versatility is what makes this soup a timeless staple.

What Kind of Noodles Should I Use?

Egg noodles are the traditional go-to for chicken noodle soup. They hold up well in broth without getting mushy too quickly and their soft texture complements the tender chicken beautifully. That said, you can swap them for other noodles like rotini, ditalini, or even orzo if you have them on hand. Just keep in mind that thinner or smaller noodles may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Ingredients for the Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Making this soup at home means you get to control every ingredient that goes into your pot. No preservatives, no artificial flavors—just honest, real food that tastes amazing. Each ingredient plays a special role in building layers of comforting flavor.

Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless, skinless cuts are perfect for easy shredding.
Carrots: Add sweetness and color to the broth.
Celery: Brings in that classic aromatic base and mild crunch.
Yellow onion: Deepens the flavor of the broth.
Garlic: Adds a savory, rich aroma.
Egg noodles: These are tender, cozy, and traditional for a reason.
Chicken broth: Go for low-sodium to better control seasoning.
Olive oil: For sautéing and building depth.
Bay leaves: Subtly enhance the broth with herbal tones.
Fresh parsley: For a clean, herby finish.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing everything together.

How To Make the Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the veggies begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth, then add the raw chicken pieces and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard the bay leaves.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles directly into the pot and cook according to the package instructions. They should be tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in chopped fresh parsley and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Let everything simmer for a couple of minutes before serving.

Storing and Serving Chicken Noodle Soup

This recipe feeds about 6 people, making it ideal for families or meal prepping. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The noodles will continue to absorb broth, so you might want to store them separately or add a splash of broth when reheating.

If freezing, skip the noodles and add them fresh when you’re ready to eat. The soup base freezes beautifully and can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.