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Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional, adds color and flavor)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 2 cups egg noodles or spaghetti, broken into smaller pieces
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Instructions:
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1. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper (if using). Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add Broth and Chicken:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the shredded or diced chicken, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
3. Cook the Noodles:
- Add the egg noodles or broken spaghetti to the boiling soup.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking.
4. Season the Soup:
- Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
5. Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve hot, with crusty bread or crackers on the side if desired.
Tips:
- Make it heartier: Add diced potatoes or other vegetables like zucchini or peas.
- Chicken Variations: If you prefer, you can start with raw chicken breasts or thighs, simmer them in the broth until cooked through, then remove, shred, and return to the pot.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
This Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly day or whenever you need a warming, nourishing meal. Enjoy!