Spring Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Spring Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup egg noodles; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup peas, frozen; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of half a lemon

Highlighted under: Fresh Meals

I couldn’t resist making a pot of this Spring Chicken Noodle Soup as the weather turns warmer. There's something about the combination of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and flavorful broth that just screams comfort to me. The best part? It comes together in no time! With vibrant ingredients and satisfying noodles, this soup is perfect for a light, nutritious meal that brings a touch of spring to my kitchen. I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping!

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:55:35.428Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen, I decided to combine the flavors of spring into one comforting dish. The crunch of fresh vegetables like carrots and peas really elevate the soup, while the egg noodles give it that classic hearty feel. I love using rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut; it adds depth without spending hours in the kitchen. The key is to sauté the vegetables until they're just tender before adding the broth!

On a particularly sunny afternoon, I served this soup at a small gathering. Everyone raved about how light yet fulfilling it was. I usually add a squeeze of lemon at the end, which brightens the flavors and makes the entire dish come alive! Trust me, you’ll want to make this recipe whenever spring rolls around.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm and comforting with fresh spring flavors.
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Uses rotisserie chicken for easy meal prep.

Perfecting the Broth

The success of any great chicken noodle soup lies in its broth. For this recipe, using high-quality chicken broth enhances the overall flavor. If you prefer homemade, simmer chicken bones with carrots, celery, and herbs for a minimum of two hours. This results in a deeply flavorful base that sets your soup apart. If you’re in a pinch, low-sodium store-bought broth works well, but always taste and adjust seasoning as needed to maintain the soup's balance.

A quick tip for boosting the broth's flavor is to add a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of soy sauce. This adds depth and a slight umami that elevates the taste profile. Just allow it to simmer a few minutes after adding before proceeding to the next steps, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.

Noodle Mastery

Choosing the right type of noodle can significantly affect the texture of your soup. Egg noodles are a popular choice due to their ability to absorb flavors without becoming mushy. Cook them al dente according to package instructions, allowing them to remain slightly firm. They’ll continue to soften when mixed with the hot broth, ensuring they don't become overly soft by the time you serve the soup.

If you need a gluten-free option, swap the egg noodles for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Be mindful of cooking times, as they may vary. Additionally, adding noodles towards the end prevents them from soaking up too much broth, keeping your soup just the right consistency.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Spring Chicken Noodle Soup can be prepared in advance and stored effectively. If you plan on making a big batch, consider storing the noodles separately. This prevents them from becoming soggy in the broth when reheated. Place the cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; just ensure it's completely cooled before sealing.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Microwaving leftovers works too but can lead to uneven heating. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice once reheated to revitalize the flavors, giving the soup that bright, spring touch!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a hearty pot of soup!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup egg noodles
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup peas, frozen
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of half a lemon

Make sure you have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious homemade soup!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes.

Add Chicken and Peas

Once the noodles are tender, stir in the shredded chicken and frozen peas. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Spring Chicken Noodle Soup!

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers, but remember to remove it before serving.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful texture contrast, consider serving this soup alongside thick slices of crusty bread or buttered crackers. The bread not only acts as a perfect vehicle for the broth but also offers a pleasing crunch that complements the soft noodles. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving brings both a pop of color and a fresh aroma that enhances the dish's overall presentation.

Another great option is to top the soup with a dollop of pesto. The herbal richness acts as a beautiful counterpoint to the sweetness of the vegetables, rounding out flavors and providing a gourmet twist on this comforting classic. If you want to elevate it even further, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can also add a nutty depth to the dish.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables or herbs to customize your Spring Chicken Noodle Soup. Green beans, asparagus, or leafy greens like spinach can be great additions; simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and add during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enriches the flavor but also increases the nutritional value of your soup.

For those looking to spice things up, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup a bit of heat. Alternatively, adding a teaspoon of fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary while cooking can evoke different flavor profiles to suit your palate as the seasons change.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spring vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers.

→ What can I use if I don't have chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or even water can work in a pinch. Just adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta options available in stores.

→ Can I store leftovers and how long do they last?

Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove with a little added broth.