Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

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 Chicken noodle soup. The quintessential comfort food. But let's face it, sometimes the classic version can feel a bit… predictable. This recipe aims to elevate that comforting classic with a few modern twists, adding depth of flavor and a touch of sophistication.

Ingredients:

  • For the Broth:
    • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), rinsed
    • 1 large onion, halved
    • 2 carrots, peeled and cut in half
    • 2 celery stalks, cut in half
    • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
    • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
    • 2 bay leaves
    • 8 cups water
  • For the Soup:
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
    • 2 celery stalks, diced
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 8 cups rich chicken broth (from the first step)
    • 1/2 cup egg noodles
    • 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
    • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as thyme, parsley, and chives), chopped
    • Zest of 1 lemon
    • Salt and black pepper to taste
    • Crumbled feta cheese (for garnish)
    • Freshly ground black pepper (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Craft the Broth: Place the whole chicken, onion halves, carrot halves, celery stalks, garlic cloves, peppercorns, and bay leaves in a large stockpot. Add 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 1-1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.

    • Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, roast the chicken lightly before simmering.

  2. Build the Flavor Base: In a separate pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

  3. Combine and Simmer: Pour the rich chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Bring to a simmer. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, stirring occasionally.

  4. Elevate the Taste: Stir in the shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and lemon zest. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

  5. Serve with Flair: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled feta cheese and a generous grind of black pepper.

Modern Touches:

  • Roast the Chicken: Roasting the chicken before simmering adds a depth of flavor that elevates the broth.
  • Herb Infusion: The addition of fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, and chives brings a vibrant freshness to the soup.
  • Citrus Brighten: A touch of lemon zest adds a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness of the broth.
  • Feta Finish: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, tangy bite that complements the flavors perfectly.

This recipe reimagines a classic with subtle yet impactful changes, resulting in a bowl of chicken noodle soup that is both comforting and sophisticated. Enjoy!