Chicken Noodle and Veg Recipe for a Healthy Dinner Idea

When it comes to comfort food that is both nourishing and satisfying, few dishes can match the cozy charm of a classic chicken noodle and vegetable soup. This recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, wholesome noodles, and vibrant vegetables all simmered together in a flavorful broth.

Perfect for chilly evenings, post-work dinners, or whenever you need a warm hug in a bowl, this dish offers a wonderful balance of protein, fiber, and wholesome goodness.

What makes this chicken noodle and veg recipe especially appealing is its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or noodles.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in extra nutrients for picky eaters. Ready to learn how to make this heartwarming soup that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen?

Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken noodle and vegetable soup is a timeless classic that ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

The broth is rich and flavorful, thanks to slow simmering with herbs and chicken, resulting in a deeply comforting base. The combination of tender chicken pieces, al dente noodles, and a colorful medley of vegetables creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.

Moreover, this dish is highly adaptable. You can swap in different veggies based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge.

It’s also a fantastic one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this soup satisfies cravings and nourishes the body.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 6 ounces egg noodles or your favorite pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander (for draining noodles)
• Ladle for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and a balanced texture throughout the soup.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the flavor base for your broth.
3. Add vegetables and chicken: Stir in the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the vegetables. Season everything with dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in the broth: Carefully add the chicken broth and toss in the bay leaf. Increase heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
5. Simmer and cook chicken: Allow the soup to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. This slow simmering extracts flavors and tenderizes the ingredients perfectly.
6. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup to distribute evenly.
7. Cook the noodles: Add the egg noodles directly to the pot. Cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still slightly firm (al dente).
8. Adjust seasoning and finish: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Stir in fresh lemon juice for a bright, fresh finish if desired.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy hot for the ultimate comfort meal.

Tips & Variations

“For a creamier variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.”

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as peas, green beans, or spinach. If you prefer a gluten-free dish, substitute the egg noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.

You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Add fresh herbs like dill or basil for a different flavor profile.

For a heartier soup, toss in some cooked beans or lentils. If you want to give it a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

This recipe is perfect for batch cooking and freezes beautifully for later meals.

Nutrition Facts

*Sodium content can be reduced by using low-sodium broth or homemade stock.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken noodle and vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll for dipping. A light side salad tossed with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.

For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a simple grilled cheese sandwich or roasted vegetables.

To complement dessert, consider something light and fruity like a lemon sorbet or a batch of homemade cookies. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for another vegetable-forward dish, or try the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe when you want a comforting protein-packed option.

For a little tangy side, the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe adds a zesty kick to any meal.

Conclusion

This chicken noodle and vegetable soup is a classic for good reason — it’s warm, wholesome, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles in a savory broth creates a nourishing meal that’s perfect any day of the week.

Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving some homemade comfort, this recipe delivers on both taste and nutrition.

With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles while still offering a home-cooked touch. Remember, cooking is all about making dishes your own, so don’t hesitate to personalize this soup with your favorite veggies or herbs.

Enjoy the process and the delicious results — happy cooking!

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