Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup: A Recipe for Comfort

There's something undeniably comforting about a bowl of chicken noodle soup. It's not just a meal; it's a warm embrace, a remedy for the soul, especially on those days when you or your loved ones need a little extra care. Growing up, the taste of Campbell's chicken noodle soup served with a slice of whole wheat bread and butter was my comfort when I was under the weather. Inspired by those memories, I sought to recreate that comforting experience for my family, but with a wholesome twist. A great way for using fresh, homegrown ingredients from our homestead, I've crafted a chicken noodle soup that's not only comforting but also packed with nutrition. Its simplicity and versatility make it a staple in our home, easily adaptable with ingredients commonly found in a homesteader's pantry.

The Versatility of Chicken

• Chicken Breast: Lean and healthy, chicken breast cooks quickly, making it a great option for a speedy soup.

• Rotisserie Chicken: For a shortcut without sacrificing flavor, a grocery store rotisserie chicken can be a time-saver. Plus, it adds a rich depth to the broth.

• Whole Chicken: Cooking a whole chicken in a slow cooker or a Dutch oven not only provides tender meat but also enriches the stock with flavors.

Building the Base - The Foundation of Flavor

1. Olive Oil & Aromatics: Start with a large pot or Dutch oven, heating olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions (or use garlic powder for convenience) to build a flavorful base.

2. Homemade Chicken Stock: If you have it, homemade stock made with fresh herbs and bay leaves adds incomparable richness. Otherwise, a good quality low sodium chicken broth from the store is a great substitute.

3. Cream of Chicken Soup: For a creamier texture, stir in a can of cream of chicken soup. It thickens the broth and adds a silky consistency.

Soup Ingredients and Seasonings - Simple Ingredients for a Hearty Meal

• Noodles: Wide egg noodles are classic, but any kind of pasta or even rice can add a delightful texture.

• Vegetables: Fresh vegetables like carrots and celery add color and nutrition. A bay leaf enhances the broth with its subtle aroma. I love a little Thyme in my soup.

• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and a dash of herbs like tarragon or basil tailor the soup to your taste.

Cooking Your Soup - Easy Steps for Making a Good Soup, Great!

1. Sauté: In your pot, sauté onions (or add garlic powder) in olive oil until translucent. You can even let them caramelize a little bit. This is where the magic starts.

2. Simmer: Add your chicken, broth, vegetables, and seasonings. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

3. Noodles: Add the noodles towards the end, cooking until tender. For a gluten-free option, rice or gluten free noodle can be just as comforting. 

Alternative Options - Customizing Your Soup

• Creamy: To make your soup creamy, add a little cream and a few tbsp of four mixed with water.

• Vegetarian Variations: A vegetable broth and an array of fresh vegetables instead of chicken can turn this into a nourishing vegetarian soup.

• Canning Potential: While this soup is best enjoyed fresh, those interested in canning can adapt the recipe for pressure canning! By omitting the noodles, using dried instead of fresh herbs and pressure canning at 70 min for pints and 90 minutes for quarts at the recommended pressure for your elevation you’ll have a shelf stable soup.

• Roasted Chicken: You can used canned chicken, but a freshly roasted chicken will elevate this recipe and give your soup a rich flavour that can’t be beat. 

Conclusion

This homemade chicken noodle soup recipe is more than just food; it's a bowl of comfort, tradition, and love. It's a great recipe that showcases the versatility and joy of cooking, inviting you to customize this easy recipe to your family's taste. Even now, as an adult nothing makes me feel more cared for when I’m sick than a warm mug of Chicken Noodle Soup.

We'd love to see your chicken noodle soup creations and hear how this delicious recipe warmed your home. Share your experiences and any variations you tried in the comments, or tag us on social media. Don't forget to subscribe for more heartwarming recipes and homesteading tips.