Fall Chicken Noodle Soup with Thyme & Carrots
There’s nothing more comforting on a crisp autumn evening than a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. This recipe combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, sweet carrots, and aromatic thyme in a savory broth that’s both nourishing and full of flavor. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or any time you need a classic comfort meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is a hearty and flavorful twist on a classic favorite, with seasonal vegetables and fresh thyme adding warmth and depth. It’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for enjoying on a chilly fall day. Each spoonful is comforting, satisfying, and full of homey flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a soup that’s both wholesome and delicious. Fresh vegetables, tender chicken, hearty noodles, and aromatic herbs combine to create a dish that’s flavorful, filling, and perfect for family dinners or casual weeknight meals.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Egg noodles or pasta of choice
- Carrots, sliced
- Celery, chopped
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth or stock
- Fresh thyme
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and black pepper
How to Make – Step by Step
This soup is easy to prepare, with a simple sequence of sautéing, simmering, and combining ingredients. Following these steps ensures a flavorful broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles every time. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality soup at home.
- Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil or butter until softened.
- Add chicken and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in noodles and fresh thyme, cooking until noodles are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
This soup is highly versatile, so you can adjust it to your taste or dietary needs. Swapping vegetables, herbs, or noodles can give it a new twist each time while keeping it comforting and satisfying. These variations make it easy to adapt for any occasion.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
- Swap egg noodles for gluten-free or whole wheat pasta.
- Add seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or parsnips.
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with simple sides to make a complete meal. Its hearty broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles are excellent on their own or paired with complementary dishes for a cozy fall dinner.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread on the side.
- A fresh side salad for a lighter option.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan or extra herbs before serving.
Storing Tips
Proper storage ensures that your soup stays flavorful and fresh for later enjoyment. By following a few simple steps, you can maintain the rich broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles whether refrigerating or freezing portions for future meals.
- Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve texture and flavor.
Chef’s Tips
Small techniques make a big difference in this classic soup. Properly cooking the chicken, adding noodles at the right time, and balancing herbs and seasoning ensures that every spoonful is comforting, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.
- Shred chicken finely to distribute flavor evenly.
- Add noodles near the end to prevent overcooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning gradually for depth of flavor.
- Use homemade chicken broth for richer taste whenever possible.
Conclusion
This Fall Chicken Noodle Soup with Thyme & Carrots is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful dish perfect for any chilly evening. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic thyme, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Make a batch today and enjoy the warmth and comfort of fall in every spoonful.