Spring Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Spring Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup egg noodles; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Classic Recipes

I always find joy in a bowl of homemade soup, especially when the weather starts to warm up in spring. This Spring Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles that bring a burst of flavor and nourishment. I love how the vibrant colors of the seasonal veggies elevate the dish, making it feel light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftovers, ensuring no ingredients go to waste while delivering a delicious meal the whole family can enjoy.

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:53:36.039Z

When creating this Spring Chicken Noodle Soup, I drew inspiration from the fresh produce available in my local market. I love experimenting with seasonal ingredients, and this soup captures the essence of springtime. The blend of herbs not only enhances the flavor but also promotes a healthy spirit. One tip I discovered is to simmer the chicken separately before adding to the soup; it helps retain all the juicy goodness!

The flavors develop beautifully as the soup cooks, and by the end, you're left with a fragrant dish that invites everyone to the table. Don't rush the cooking process; let everything meld together for maximum flavor payoff. It's truly the perfect recipe for those cozy family nights!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A fresh and vibrant way to enjoy chicken soup
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
Perfect for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner

      

Selecting the Best Ingredients

Choosing high-quality ingredients can significantly enhance the flavor of your Spring Chicken Noodle Soup. Opt for fresh, organic vegetables whenever possible, as they provide a richer taste and better texture. For instance, vibrant, firm carrots and crisp celery not only add color but also a satisfying crunch to your soup. If you can’t find fresh peas, frozen ones are a great substitute. They are often frozen at peak freshness, preserving their sweetness and nutritional value.

When it comes to chicken, using leftover rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, saving cooking time while still delivering a depth of flavor. If you prefer to cook your own chicken, consider simmering bone-in thighs or breasts in the broth for added richness. Make sure to remove the skin and bones before shredding to keep the soup light while still maximizing flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Flavorful Soup

The method of sautéing vegetables at the start is crucial for building a flavor base for your soup. Cook the onions, carrots, and celery until the onions are translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. This process, known as sweating, helps release natural sugars and essential oils, creating a complex broth when combined with the garlic and chicken stock.

After adding the egg noodles, keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. They should be al dente, with just a hint of bite. If overcooked, noodles can become mushy and absorb too much broth. I like to check them a minute or two before the suggested cooking time on the package to ensure perfect texture.

Serving and Storing Your Soup

Once your soup is ready, serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra touch. Pairing it with crusty bread or a light salad can make for a balanced meal. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added creaminess and flavor, elevating the dish further.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can easily reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat. However, if you’ve added noodles, they may absorb more broth during storage, so consider adding extra chicken broth when reheating. For longer storage, this soup freezes well; just make sure to leave out the noodles before freezing and add them fresh when reheating.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup egg noodles
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Add Garlic and Broth

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Cook the Noodles

Once the broth is boiling, add the egg noodles and let them cook according to package directions (usually about 7-8 minutes).

Combine and Season

Add the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the peas and lemon juice before serving.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables. Additionally, you can substitute the egg noodles with whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.

Customizing Your Soup

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste. Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or spinach, which blend well with this soup's bright flavors. Chopped kale can also be a hearty addition, providing a nutritious boost. You can also switch the herbs; if you have fresh thyme or parsley, using about a tablespoon of each can enhance the freshness of the soup.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. Alternatively, experimenting with spices like cumin or coriander can introduce a warm, earthy flavor profile that complements the chicken beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, soups can turn out either too salty or bland. If you find your soup too salty after adding broth, you can dilute it with extra water or low-sodium broth and adjust the seasoning as necessary. On the other hand, if it lacks flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or more herbs to boost the taste without overwhelming it.

Another common issue is the soup appearing too thick after refrigeration. This can happen as the noodles absorb the broth. To fix this, you can simply add more chicken broth when reheating, stirring until the desired consistency is achieved. Keeping your soup on the lighter side during cooking also helps maintain its texture later.

Meal Prep Tips

Preparing this soup ahead of time is a great way to save time during a busy week. You can chop your vegetables and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, they will be ready to sauté when you are. You could even cook the chicken and noodles ahead, storing each in separate containers to maintain their texture until you’re ready to combine everything.

When meal prepping, consider portioning out the soup into freezer-safe containers so that you can easily grab a warm, comforting meal anytime you need it. Just be sure to leave space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen. This soup will stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds immense flavor to your soup.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, green beans, or even kale for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for about 2-3 months.