Homemade chicken noodle soup

Chicken soup with homemade noodles

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Chicken soup with homemade noodles is a classic dish, full of warmth and comfort, reminiscent of family Sunday meals. This simple yet delicious recipe revives childhood memories when the aroma of boiled chicken and fresh vegetables filled the house. Here’s how to prepare this comforting soup step by step.

Ingredients:

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 2 large carrots
- 200 g homemade noodles (or store-bought)
- 4 l cold water
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 small onion, 1-2 garlic cloves

Ingredient details:

Chicken breast: Choose a fresh, skinless chicken breast for a clearer and easier-to-digest soup. You can also use chicken with bones for a richer flavor.

Carrots: Buy fresh carrots with vibrant color, which will add natural sweetness to the soup.

Homemade noodles: Making homemade noodles may seem challenging, but it is a pleasant and satisfying activity. If you prefer, you can use store-bought noodles to save time.

Parsley: This ingredient not only improves the soup's appearance but also adds freshness and nutrients.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the soup:
- Wash the chicken breast well under cold water to remove any impurities.
- In a large pot, add the 4 liters of cold water and the chicken breast. Bring to a simmer over low heat, adding a teaspoon of salt. It’s important to start with cold water to extract the flavors from the chicken.
- As the water begins to boil, you will notice the formation of foam. Use a slotted spoon to remove the foam, ensuring that the soup will be clear and appetizing.

2. Cooking the chicken:
- Let the chicken breast simmer for about 20-25 minutes. When cooked, remove it from the soup and let it cool slightly. You can lightly fry it in a pan to give it a golden crust and intense flavor, or use it directly boiled.

3. Adding the vegetables:
- In the water where the chicken breast was boiled, add the peeled and diced or sliced carrots, depending on your preference. These will add a note of sweetness to the soup.
- Let the carrots simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until they become tender.

4. Adding the noodles:
- After the carrots are cooked, add the homemade noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions (usually between 5-7 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking.

5. Finalizing the soup:
- Once the noodles are ready, add salt and pepper to taste. You can also add dried parsley for an extra flavor boost.
- If you opt for the onion and garlic version, you can add them during the vegetable boiling to enhance the soup's aroma.

6. Serving:
- Slice the chicken breast and serve it alongside the soup, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. This will not only add a vibrant appearance but also a fresh aroma.

Practical tips:

- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or bell pepper, to diversify the soup's flavor.
- Noodles: If you want to make homemade noodles, mix 2 eggs with 200 g of flour and a pinch of salt, knead until you get an elastic dough, then roll it thin and cut it into strips.
- Storing the soup: The soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be frozen for later consumption.

Nutritional information:

A serving of chicken soup with homemade noodles has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. It is an excellent source of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, benefiting the immune system and digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw it before adding it to the water to avoid uneven cooking.

- Can I make the soup without noodles?
Absolutely, the soup is delicious even without noodles, served only with vegetables.

- What drinks pair well with chicken soup?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade can perfectly complement this meal.

Chicken soup with homemade noodles is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or an ordinary day, this dish will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!