Easy American Style Chicken Noodle Soup

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the heartwarming charm of an easy American style chicken noodle soup. This classic dish is not just a favorite remedy for cold days or during illness, but it's also a delightful meal that captures the essence of home cooking. With its aromatic broth, tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a blend of vegetables, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying.

The History of American Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup has been a staple in American households for generations. The origins of chicken soup date back to ancient times, with iterations found in numerous cultures worldwide. However, the American version likely took hold during the colonial era, influenced by various European settlers. Over time, what we now cherish as the easy American style chicken noodle soup evolved, adapting new ingredients and techniques but retaining its simple, comforting nature.

Key Ingredients in Easy American Style Chicken Noodle Soup

Creating a delicious bowl of chicken noodle soup doesn't require a long list of fancy ingredients. What makes it stand out is the quality and balance of these staples:

Chicken: Typically, bone-in chicken pieces or a whole chicken are used to create a rich, flavorful broth. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be substituted for a quicker cook.
Noodles: Egg noodles are a traditional choice in American chicken noodle soups, offering a soft, chewy texture that holds up well in broth.
Vegetables: Classic versions include onions, carrots, and celery, often referred to as the "holy trinity" in soup making. These vegetables build the flavor foundation of the soup.
Broth: A good broth is the soul of the soup. Homemade broth from simmering chicken, vegetables, and spices provides deep flavor but store-bought can be used for convenience.
Seasonings: Basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme and bay leaves enhance the natural flavors without overwhelming them.

Benefits of a Homemade Easy American Style Chicken Noodle Soup

Making chicken noodle soup at home is not only cost-effective but also provides numerous health benefits. Homemade soup allows for control over the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome dish free from preservatives or excessive sodium often found in canned soups. This soup can also be tailored to nutritional needs, making it lower in fat or adding more vegetables for increased fiber.

Additionally, chicken noodle soup is known for its healing properties. The hot broth is soothing for a sore throat, while steam can help clear nasal passages. The soup boosts hydration, replenishes lost nutrients, and has natural anti-inflammatory benefits due to its ingredients, making it a go-to remedy during flu season.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy American Style Chicken Noodle Soup

Prepare the Ingredients: Gather your chicken (about 1.5 pounds of chicken breast or thighs), 2 cups of egg noodles, 1 large onion diced, 3 carrots sliced, 3 stalks of celery sliced, 2 cloves of garlic minced, salt, pepper, and herbs like fresh thyme (or a teaspoon of dried thyme) and a couple of bay leaves.
Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken pieces and cover them with water or chicken stock. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Set it aside for later.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little olive oil. Once hot, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until the onions are translucent and the vegetables start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in about 8 cups of chicken broth, adding the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a gentle boil and then lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.
Add Noodles and Chicken: Stir in the egg noodles and the shredded chicken. Continue to cook for another 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Final Touches: Check the seasoning and adjust if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Serve: Ladle your easy American style chicken noodle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy.

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze easy American style chicken noodle soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken noodle soup. Store it in airtight containers, but consider cooking the noodles fresh when serving, as they can become mushy after freezing.

Q: How can I make this soup gluten-free?
A: Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles, and ensure that your broth is gluten-free.

Q: What can I add for more flavor?
A: Add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce for a hint of zest or spice.