Elevate Your Chicken Noodle Soup This Season With This Quick and Healthy Recipe
Jan 16, 2025Bone Broth Bliss:
When winter chills settle in, nothing warms the soul like a hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup! Packed with nutrients, this recipe combines comfort and health in every bite. Whether you're recovering from a cold or just looking for a cozy dinner, this soup delivers flavor and nourishment.
Chicken noodle soup is more than just a classic comfort food; it’s scientifically backed to provide numerous health benefits. According to research published in Chest Journal, chicken soup may have mild anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate respiratory infections. The warmth and hydration it provides are also excellent for soothing sore throats and replenishing electrolytes. Using bone-in chicken enhances these benefits by releasing collagen and minerals into the broth, promoting joint and skin health.
Let’s dive into one of my favorite recipes and explore why this dish is a must-add to your meal prep rotation!
Ingredients:
- Olive Oil & Butter: For sautéing. Olive oil brings heart-healthy fats, while butter adds depth of flavor.
- Onion: A yellow onion works best, but any variety is fine. Onions contain antioxidants like quercetin that support immune health.
- Celery & Carrots: These provide fiber and essential vitamins like A and K. You’ll need 3 celery stalks and 2 medium carrots.
- Fresh Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic is the underrated star of this dish. You’ll need six cloves of garlic, minced or pressed. You can also substitute with garlic powder–1 to 1.5 teaspoons.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium options to control salt levels without sacrificing flavor. The amount you use will depend on how much you’re wanting to make.
- Thyme & Bay Leaves: These herbs enhance flavor and provide antioxidants. Use 1 sprig of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. A good rule of thumb is 1 bay leaf for every 4-5 cups of broth.
- Bone-In Chicken: A powerhouse of nutrients, releasing collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin into the soup.
- Noodles: Opt for gluten-free or whole-grain noodles for lower-carb, higher-fiber options.
- Parsley & Lemon Wedges: Fresh parsley adds brightness, while lemon juice enhances iron absorption from vegetables. Again, you can leave these out or add to your preference.
Directions:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Start with olive oil and butter in a Dutch oven. Sauté onions, celery, and carrots until tender. Adding garlic last and cook for no more than 30 seconds to preserve its allicin, the compound responsible for its immune-boosting effects.
- Simmer the Broth and Chicken: Deglaze the pot with broth, adding thyme and bay leaves. Simmer the bone-in chicken for 30 minutes, allowing its nutrients to infuse the broth.
- Cook Noodles & Shred Chicken: After removing the chicken, add noodles to the pot. Shred the chicken while the noodles cook, then return the meat to the soup for a final simmer, 2-3 minutes.
- Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaves, season with salt and pepper to your liking, and garnish with parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for a tangy, refreshing twist.
Broth-based soups help maintain hydration, especially during winter months when we often drink less water. Garlic and onions contain antimicrobial compounds that boost your immune defenses, while the bone broth contains gelatin, which supports a healthy gut lining! The protein in chicken aids in muscle repair, making this not only the perfect meal for when you’re feeling down, but also a great post-workout meal. Enjoy!
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Xo,
Coach Tatiana
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