Name: Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 Tablespoons salted butter; ½ onion, chopped; 2 cups chopped carrots; 2 cups chopped celery (about 6 ribs); 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken; 1½ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon; ½ teaspoon ground pepper; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 4 cups chicken broth; 3 cups water; 2 cups egg noodles

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 9 reviews

I absolutely love cozying up with a big bowl of homemade soup, and this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. It’s one of those meals that tastes like a warm hug with every spoonful. The combination of tender carrots, celery, juicy rotisserie chicken, and perfectly cooked egg noodles comes together so effortlessly, making it an excellent go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you just need a little comfort food magic in your life. I’m excited to share this simple, delicious dish with you!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

What truly sets this soup apart for me is how the flavors are so perfectly balanced and comforting. The sweetness of sautéed carrots and celery melds beautifully with the savory depth of the chicken broth and the subtle herbal notes from thyme and black pepper. The garlic powder adds a gentle punch without overwhelming the delicate chicken flavor, and the egg noodles soak up all this goodness to create a hearty, satisfying bite every time. I never get tired of it because every spoonful is just bursting with that classic chicken noodle soup charm, but elevated with fresh, real ingredients.

Another thing I adore about this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is how super straightforward it is to prepare. With just a handful of simple pantry staples and rotisserie chicken, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes. For those busy days or even last-minute guests, it’s a lifesaver. Plus, this soup is incredibly versatile – perfect for cozy family dinners, a nourishing lunch on a chilly day, or even as a thoughtful dish to bring to someone feeling under the weather. It’s just one of those recipes I’m always thrilled to have in my arsenal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pot filled with clear yellow broth containing flat, wide noodle strips that are soft and slightly curled, with small chunks of white chicken meat scattered throughout. Orange carrot cubes and green herb leaves float in the broth, adding pops of color. The broth has tiny green herb flecks spread all over, giving a fresh look. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface, and in the top right corner, there is a white bowl with chopped green herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this soup comes from a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own unique texture and flavor. From the tender vegetables to the perfectly seasoned broth and those soft, comforting egg noodles, every component plays an essential role in creating a delicious bowl of goodness.

Pro Tip ✨

Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Butter: Using salted butter adds richness and helps to soften the veggies perfectly while adding a subtle layer of flavor.
Onion: Chopped onion brings a slightly sweet and aromatic base that deepens the soup’s flavor.
Carrots: These add natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color alongside their tender texture.
Celery: Celery’s crisp, fresh flavor balances sweetness and adds savory depth to the broth.
Rotisserie chicken: Pre-cooked chicken saves time and keeps the meat juicy and tender without fuss.
Garlic powder: Brings warmth and a subtle earthiness without overpowering the delicate broth.
Chicken bouillon: Intensifies the broth flavors for that classic soup taste in every bite.
Ground pepper: Adds a little gentle heat and complexity to the soup’s seasoning.
Dried thyme: This herb infuses the broth with a comforting, fragrant note that complements the chicken perfectly.
Chicken broth: The base of the soup, providing that hearty, full-bodied chicken essence.
Water: Combined with broth to balance the soup’s richness and keep it light yet flavorful.
Egg noodles: These tender, silky noodles soak up the broth beautifully and make every spoonful satisfyingly hearty.

Directions

Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the salted butter until it’s shimmering. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, then sauté for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the onion has softened and become translucent.

Step 2: Stir in the chopped rotisserie chicken, garlic powder, chicken bouillon, ground pepper, and dried thyme. Pour in the chicken broth and water, mixing everything well so the flavors combine evenly.

Step 3: Bring the soup mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender but still hold their shape, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Once the noodles are cooked through, remove the pot from heat. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot in bowls and enjoy that comforting, homemade warmth.

Servings and Timing

This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe serves approximately 6 people, making it perfect for a family meal or to have leftovers for lunches during the week. Prep time is just about 10 minutes since most of the ingredients just need chopping or measuring. The cooking time takes around 20 minutes, so the total time from start to finish is roughly 30 minutes. There is no resting time required, so you can enjoy it fresh and steaming hot right after cooking. It’s quick, nourishing, and perfect for those nights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with chicken noodle soup sits on a white marbled surface. The soup has a golden-yellow broth with three main layers seen from the top: soft wide egg noodles with a pale yellow color and slightly curled edges, chunks of bright orange carrot pieces, and tender bits of white chicken meat. Scattered throughout are translucent white onion pieces and small green parsley leaves adding freshness and color contrast. The broth has a light oily shine reflecting the light, showing a warm and comforting texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this soup piping hot in large, shallow bowls so the noodles and veggies have room to spread out slightly and cool just enough to eat immediately. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like finely chopped parsley or a touch of dill, really brightens the presentation and adds a fresh, vibrant note to each bite. Sometimes I even add a few dashes of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the table to enhance the flavors.

For sides, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls are my top pick—they’re perfect for dipping into the broth and soaking up all that delicious soup. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the meal beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch. When I’m serving to guests, I also like to offer a cheese board or some roasted veggies alongside to keep things interesting and complete the meal effortlessly.

As for beverages, this chicken noodle soup pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy sparkling water for those wanting a non-alcoholic option. This dish is an absolute hit at family dinners, weeknight meals, and especially comforting when served during cold weather or whenever someone in the family is feeling a bit under the weather. Serving it warm ensures the flavors shine and the comforting effect is just right.

Variations

I often customize this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe depending on what I have on hand or my mood. For example, swapping out egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini noodles makes it suitable for gluten-free diets without sacrificing texture. If you want a vegan version, you can replace the rotisserie chicken with hearty mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth — the soup still turns out incredibly flavorful and satisfying.

To mix up the flavor profile, I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika or a bit of fresh ginger for warmth and spice. Fresh herbs like thyme can be swapped for rosemary or oregano to create a different aromatic experience. For an even richer flavor, roasting the vegetables before adding them to the soup is a technique I occasionally use; it deepens the sweetness and adds a subtle caramelized note.

Another fun variation is to use shredded cooked turkey or leftover roast chicken instead of rotisserie chicken. You could also experiment with different types of noodles such as rice noodles or even small shells if you want to change the mouthfeel. Cooking the soup in a slow cooker is another option—I just add all the ingredients except the noodles and let it simmer on low for a few hours, then stir in the noodles at the end and cook until tender.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Once the soup cools to room temperature, I transfer it into airtight containers to keep the flavors fresh. I use glass or BPA-free plastic containers that seal tightly to avoid any leaking odors in the fridge. This soup stays good for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, which makes it convenient for meal prep and easy lunches. I always give it a good stir before reheating, as the noodles tend to settle at the bottom.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully, which is a real lifesaver on busy weeks. To freeze, I let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If freezing in bags, I lay them flat to save space and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that the noodles may become softer after freezing, so I sometimes prefer to cook noodles fresh when possible and freeze the rest of the soup without them.

Reheating

Reheating on the stove is my preferred method to preserve the soup’s texture and flavor. I gently warm it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Reheating in the microwave works fine, but I like to add a splash of water or broth beforehand so it doesn’t dry out. Avoid boiling the soup again, as high heat can make the noodles mushy and cause the chicken to dry. Adding a touch of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon after reheating can help revive the soup’s fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I make this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe from scratch without rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! You can cook raw chicken breasts or thighs in the broth until tender, then shred them for the soup. Using rotisserie chicken simply speeds up the process, but homemade cooked chicken works just as well and adds a rich flavor.

What kind of noodles work best in this soup?

Egg noodles are classic because they have a soft, tender texture that absorbs the broth beautifully. However, you can substitute with any small to medium pasta shapes like shells, or even rice noodles if you prefer gluten-free options.

Is it okay to use chicken bouillon instead of fresh broth?

Yes, using chicken bouillon enhances the flavor of your broth without needing to simmer homemade stock. Just be sure to taste for saltiness since bouillon can be quite salty, and adjust seasoning accordingly.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in frozen peas, corn, green beans, or even spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. Adding more veggies increases nutrients and gives you even more texture and color.

How can I make this soup more filling?

To make the soup heartier, add diced potatoes, cooked beans, or extra chicken. You could also serve it alongside a grain salad, warm bread, or a side of roasted vegetables to round out the meal nicely.

Conclusion

I really hope you give this Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe a try because it’s truly one of those comforting dishes that instantly makes your day better. It’s simple, delicious, and packed with all those cozy flavors we crave. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a warming meal after a long day, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home too. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!