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comforting homemade soup recipe

Chicken Noodle Soup

This comforting chicken noodle soup combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and fresh vegetables in a rich, savory broth. The unexpected addition of Monterey Jack cheese creates a subtle creaminess that transforms this classic dish into something truly special.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups chicken broth or water, but broth provides richer flavor
  • 1 bay leaf large
  • 2-3 chicken breasts
  • 6 ounces Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 1 pound egg noodles dried
  • 1/2 cup onion chopped
  • 2-3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 cups celery chopped
  • 1 cup carrots chopped
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, combine chicken breasts, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer until chicken is tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 20 minutes.
  3. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly.
  4. Add chopped celery and carrots to the simmering broth.
  5. Once chicken is cool enough to handle, shred or cut it into bite-sized pieces and return to the pot.
  6. Continue simmering until vegetables are almost tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  7. Add dried egg noodles to the pot and cook until both noodles and vegetables reach desired tenderness, following package directions for the noodles.
  8. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top and stir gently until melted into the broth.
  10. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

For a time-saving variation, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken breasts. Simply shred the meat and add it when you would normally return the cooked chicken to the pot.
This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The noodles will continue to absorb broth, so you may need to add more broth when reheating.
For a heartier meal, serve with buttery garlic bread for dunking and a simple side salad with vinaigrette.