This Dutch Oven Chicken Noodle Soup is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly days! It features tender chicken, tasty veggies, and hearty noodles simmered together in a rich broth.
I love making this soup because it’s like a big hug in a bowl! Plus, it cooks all in one pot, so there’s less cleanup. What could be better than that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but thighs offer more flavor and moisture. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut.
Broth: I recommend low sodium chicken broth for better control over the soup’s saltiness. You can also use homemade broth for the freshest flavor or vegetable broth for a lighter version.
Vegetables: Carrots and celery add flavor and texture, but you can swap in other veggies like peas or green beans. If you’re looking to cut carbs, consider zucchini noodles as a replacement for egg noodles.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is lovely, but dried thyme works well too. For a different flavor, you could use rosemary or dill. I love adding a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness!
How Do You Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken can be a bit messy, but it doesn’t have to be! After cooking, let it rest for a couple of minutes to cool slightly. Then follow these tips:
- Use two forks: Hold one fork in each hand and drag the tines against the chicken to pull apart the meat.
- Try a stand mixer: Place the cooked chicken breasts in the bowl and use the paddle attachment on low speed for about 30 seconds—it shreds the chicken perfectly!
Just be careful not to overdo it, as you want the pieces to be bite-sized and not shredded too fine.
Dutch Oven Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced (optional)
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 6 ounces egg noodles (about 2 cups)
- Fresh parsley or additional thyme for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting chicken noodle soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to cook. You’ll end up with a delicious, heartwarming meal that’s perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery if you’re using it. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until they soften and the onions become translucent. This step really builds the flavor!
2. Add Garlic and Broth:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves and thyme. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. The aroma will be fantastic!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the whole chicken breasts to the pot, bringing the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
4. Shred the Chicken:
After the chicken is cooked, take it out of the soup and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This is a great way to make it easier to eat in the soup!
5. Cook the Noodles:
While you’re shredding the chicken, you can add the egg noodles to the simmering soup. Cook them according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes, until they’re tender and just perfect.
6. Combine and Serve:
Once the noodles are ready, return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir everything together. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and give it a final touch with fresh parsley or thyme if you like. It’s great with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping!
This cozy and hearty soup featuring tender chicken, lively veggies, and comforting noodles makes for a delightful meal. Enjoy every warm, flavorful spoon!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly. Simply add it to the pot in step 5, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked. It’s best to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems thick. This soup also freezes well—store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth and replace the chicken with diced tofu or chickpeas. You may also consider adding more veggies to enhance the flavor and texture!
What Other Herbs Can I Use Besides Thyme?
If you’re out of thyme or want to switch things up, you can use rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill also add a nice touch at the end! Just remember, herbs can be to taste, so feel free to adjust based on your preference!
