Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch – Cozy Homemade Bowl

When it comes to classic comfort food, nothing satisfies like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup made entirely from scratch. This version uses a whole chicken to build a rich, hearty broth that’s deeply nourishing and full of body.

Combined with tender noodles, vibrant vegetables, and fresh herbs, every spoonful delivers flavor and wellness in one. This guide walks you through every step to make your own batch at home using real ingredients you can feel good about.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or stocking your freezer, this recipe is easy, customizable, and built for comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch

This recipe transforms basic ingredients into something special. Using a whole chicken enhances the broth and keeps the meat juicy, while vegetables add color and nutrients.

• Rich and homemade taste from real ingredients
• Ideal for meal prep or freezing in portions
• Naturally comforting with no processed ingredients
• Made in one pot for easy cleanup
• Customizable for your dietary preferences

Whole chicken adds depth that pre-cooked pieces can’t match. Simmering bones, skin, and meat releases nutrients and collagen, creating a full-bodied soup naturally. For another hearty and healthy option, try the Chicken Poblano Soup for a gentle kick of warmth.

This recipe is easy to scale up or down depending on how many you’re feeding. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or preparing ahead, this method gives you a solid base every time.

Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch Ingredients

Fresh, vibrant ingredients bring this soup to life. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds), cleaned and rinsed
• 12 cups water for boiling the chicken and building broth
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into coins
• 3 celery stalks, chopped for a satisfying crunch
• 1 large onion, halved (leave the peel for richer color)
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed for bold flavor
• 2 bay leaves to build aroma
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh sprigs
• 1 teaspoon peppercorns or ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 cups egg noodles or your favorite noodle type
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Use organic vegetables when possible to bring extra brightness and taste. Add a squeeze of lemon at the end if you like a touch of acidity. The better your ingredients, the better your soup. If you enjoy cozy bowls like this, check out the Chicken Tortilla Soup Stove Top for a quick and zesty weeknight dinner.

How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch

Making soup from scratch sounds hard, but this process is simple and repeatable.

1. Boil the chicken: In a large stockpot, add the whole chicken, onion, garlic, bay leaves, pepper, and thyme. Cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 1 hour.
2. Strain and shred: Remove the chicken. Strain broth through a mesh sieve. Let chicken cool, then remove skin and bones. Shred meat into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook vegetables: In the same pot, add a bit of oil if needed, then sauté carrots and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add broth and chicken: Pour the strained broth back in, add shredded chicken, and bring everything back to a simmer.
5. Add noodles and finish: Add noodles and cook according to package instructions. Taste for salt and pepper. Add fresh parsley before serving.

That’s it. You’ve just made a full pot of flavorful, whole-chicken soup with nothing artificial.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch

This soup is flexible and pairs well with many classic sides.

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping
• Simple green salad to add freshness
• Garlic toast for a crisp bite
• Cornbread for Southern flair
• Grated Parmesan for a savory boost

Make it the center of a cozy dinner or serve it in mugs for a casual lunch. Serve hot with a swirl of olive oil or an extra grind of pepper. If you love warming meals with layered flavor, give the Taco Soup Stove Top a try as your next weeknight go-to.

This chicken noodle soup also works well for get-well packages or meal trains for friends. It travels well and reheats beautifully.

Chicken Noodle Soup With Whole Chicken – Variations and Customization

This soup adapts to what you have in the fridge or your dietary needs. Try these easy customizations:

• Use gluten-free noodles like rice noodles or quinoa pasta
• Add more veggies such as zucchini, green beans, or corn
• Boost protein with chickpeas or extra chicken
• Go low carb by skipping noodles and adding cauliflower florets
• Add spice with a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne

The base is versatile and forgiving. Use what you like and adjust the flavors to your taste. Swap egg noodles with spiral pasta, fusilli, or even orzo.

Bone In Chicken Noodle Soup – Storage and Reheating

Homemade soup keeps well and is easy to reheat.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in quart-sized bags or containers. Label with date. Good for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. If the noodles soaked up too much liquid, add a splash of broth or water. You can also microwave individual bowls in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

If freezing, consider storing noodles separately. This helps prevent them from getting mushy when reheated later.

Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Homemade – Pro Tips

These tips help make your soup truly outstanding:

• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling too hard to keep the broth clear and full-flavored.
• Skim often: Use a ladle to remove foam and fat from the surface while it simmers.
• Use fresh herbs: Add chopped parsley, dill, or thyme at the end for brightness.
• Cook noodles separately: For better texture in leftovers, boil noodles separately and add per serving.
• Add lemon juice: A small splash brightens the final taste without overpowering.

A good soup is all about balance. Salt to taste as you go. Use a high-quality chicken for best results. For more richness, add a spoon of olive oil when serving.

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup With Whole Chicken – Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these missteps for the best results:

• Adding noodles too early: They can overcook and turn mushy.
• Using low-quality chicken: You won’t get the deep flavor from lean cuts or boneless pieces.
• Boiling too hard: This makes the broth cloudy and can toughen meat.
• Not seasoning enough: Salt matters, taste as you cook and adjust gradually.
• Skipping the strain: Straining the broth removes grit and gives a clean finish.

Don’t rush the simmering time. It’s essential for extracting nutrients and flavor. Patience is key for a rewarding result.

Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch – Final Thoughts

This chicken noodle soup is simple, clean, and packed with flavor from real ingredients. It’s easy to customize, easy to freeze, and always hits the spot.

Whether you’re new to homemade soups or a seasoned cook, this version delivers everything you need in one big pot of comfort.

Pin this recipe to save it for later and share it with someone who could use a warm, nourishing meal today.

FAQs About Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch

Can I make chicken noodle soup with a whole chicken?

Yes. Using a whole chicken gives your broth rich flavor and body. It also ensures tender meat and lets you control the ingredients from the start.

How long does it take to boil a whole chicken for soup?

It takes about 1 hour to fully cook a 4-pound chicken in simmering water. Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F before shredding.

What noodles are best for homemade chicken soup?

Egg noodles are traditional, but rotini, bowties, or even orzo work well. Choose sturdy noodles that hold up in broth and resist getting soggy.

Can I freeze chicken noodle soup with noodles?

Yes, but it’s better to freeze the broth and chicken without noodles. Add fresh-cooked noodles when reheating for best texture.

Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch – Cozy Homemade Bowl

Author: Ellie Courses: Soups