Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. Its warm and savory broth combined with tender noodles and chunks of flavorful chicken is the perfect meal to lift your spirits and soothe your soul. While canned soups are widely available, nothing compares to the homemade version made from scratch. In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe for roasted chicken noodle soup that is both nutritious and delicious.
Why Roasting the Chicken is Key
Roasting the chicken is a crucial step in this recipe. Not only does it add depth and richness to the soup, but it also makes the chicken meat more tender and flavorful. Roasting also allows you to utilize the entire chicken, including the bones, to make a rich and nutritious broth.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 cups of water
- 8 oz egg noodles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425┬░F (218┬░C).
- Remove the giblets and excess fat from the chicken cavity, rinse the chicken inside and out, and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper all over the skin.
- Place the chicken on a roasting pan and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165┬░F (74┬░C).
- Let the chicken cool for a few minutes, then remove the meat from the bones and set it aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, celery, carrots, and garlic until softened.
- Add the bay leaves, thyme, and roasted chicken bones to the pot.
- Pour in 8 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 1-2 hours.
- Strain the broth and discard the solids.
- Add the cooked egg noodles and roasted chicken meat to the broth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and let simmer for another 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Tips for Success
- Be sure to use a whole chicken with skin-on for the best flavor.
- Don’t forget to rub the chicken with olive oil and season it generously with salt and pepper before roasting.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before removing the meat from the bones.
- Use homemade broth for the best flavor and nutrition, but if you’re short on time, store-bought broth can be substituted.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste preference.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is roasted chicken noodle soup delicious, but it also provides several nutritional benefits. Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It is also rich in B vitamins, which are important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails, and supporting the nervous system. Carrots and celery are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, that support immune function and promote healthy skin. The egg noodles in the soup provide carbohydrates, which are the primary source of energy for the body.
Conclusion
Roasted chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that is easy to make and packed with
