Homemade chicken soup with noodles

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup – A Recipe Full of Memories

If you grew up in the countryside or had grandparents who cooked with love, you surely remember the unmistakable aroma of homemade chicken soup. This classic recipe, passed down from generation to generation, is not only a remedy for chilly days but also brings a hearty dose of nostalgia. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this chicken noodle soup will surely become one of your favorites.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 - 2 kg) - breast and thighs
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 slice of celery
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 1 medium onion
- Salt, to taste
- A few black peppercorns
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Homemade noodles (or store-bought noodles, if preferred)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any leftover feathers or excess fat. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces to help it cook evenly.

2. Initial boiling: Place the chicken pieces in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a little salt to enhance the flavor. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This step helps eliminate impurities from the meat.

3. Changing the water: After 20 minutes, remove the chicken from the water and discard the broth. This may seem unusual, but it is an important step to achieve a clear and tasty soup. Place the chicken back in clean water, add the well-cleaned and chopped vegetables: carrots, celery, parsley root, parsnip, and the whole onion for added flavor. Make sure the vegetables are fresh, as they significantly contribute to the final taste of the soup.

4. Slow boiling: Add salt again and a few black peppercorns. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. It is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear and appetizing soup.

5. Final cooking: Once the chicken and vegetables are well cooked, remove them from the soup. You can let them cool to make deboning easier. Strain the soup through a fine sieve to eliminate vegetable and spice residues. Place the strained soup back on the heat.

6. Adding the noodles: When the soup starts to boil, add the homemade noodles. If you chose to use store-bought noodles, make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. Cook the noodles according to the indicated time, usually 3-5 minutes, then adjust the salt to your taste.

7. Serving: Finally, you can add a few pieces of boiled carrots to the bowls for an attractive appearance and an extra boost of nutrients. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of freshness and flavor.

Helpful tips:
- Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to diversify the soup's flavor.
- Chicken meat: After removing the meat from the soup, you can debone it and prepare it breaded. Beat a few eggs, add salt and pepper, then dip the pieces of meat in the egg and breadcrumbs before frying them. It’s a delicacy that perfectly complements the soup.

Nutritional benefits:
This chicken soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Parsley is a good source of antioxidants and vitamins, being a healthy ingredient that improves digestion.

Calories:
A serving of chicken noodle soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of meat and noodles used, making it a healthy and nourishing choice.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken?: Yes, but it is recommended to thaw it completely before cooking to achieve an even flavor.
- How can I make noodles at home?: Mix flour with eggs and a pinch of salt, then knead until you obtain a smooth dough. Let it rest, then roll it out and cut it into strips.
- Can I make the soup with turkey meat?: Of course! The soup will have a different taste but will be just as delicious.

Serving suggestions:
This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or seasoned croutons. A warm drink, such as green tea or dry white wine, perfectly complements the meal.

Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones, as chicken noodle soup is not just a dish but also a family story, a way to bring people together around the table and create unforgettable memories. Cook with love and joy, and every spoonful will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones!

 Ingredients: chicken breast and thighs, 2 carrots, 1 slice of celery, 1 parsley root, 1 parsnip root, 1 onion, salt, a few peppercorns, 1 bunch of fresh parsley

 Tags:  soup chicken meat noodles