Chicken noodle soup

Chicken noodle soup – a classic, comforting recipe perfect for those moments when you crave a warm and tasty hug. This soup not only offers a delicious flavor but is also packed with essential nutrients, making it ideal for the whole family.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 65 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 500 g chicken (preferably thighs or breast, depending on preference)
- 1 small celery
- 3-4 carrots (one grated, the rest diced)
- 1 bell pepper (any color, for added flavor)
- 1 tomato (optional, for a hint of acidity)
- 1 onion
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- Fresh parsley leaves (for garnish and flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- 200 g thin noodles (for a delicate texture)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Cut the meat into smaller pieces so it cooks evenly. Clean and wash the vegetables, then chop the celery and bell pepper into cubes, and cut the carrots, except for one which you will grate, into larger pieces. The tomato can be quartered or left whole, depending on preference. The onion and garlic will remain whole to add flavor to the soup.

2. Boiling the chicken: Place the chicken in a large pot with cold water (about 2 liters) and bring to a boil. During the first boiling phase, you will notice foam forming on top. It is important to remove it with a skimmer to achieve a clear and clean broth.

3. Adding the vegetables: After about 5-10 minutes of boiling, add the vegetables (except for the garlic and onion) and salt. These will add flavor and nutrients to your soup. Simmer on low heat for 40-50 minutes until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked. In the meantime, you can use a wooden spoon to gently stir to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.

4. Finishing the soup: About 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the noodles to the pot, stirring gently to avoid clumping. Once the noodles are cooked, finely chop the parsley leaves and add them to the soup for an extra splash of color and flavor.

5. Serving: Once the soup is ready, remove the chicken, debone it, and cut it into small pieces, which you can add back to the soup or serve separately. Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, you can add a few fresh parsley leaves for a more appealing look.

Serving suggestions: You can serve chicken noodle soup alongside a slice of fresh bread or with crunchy croutons. A squeeze of lemon on top can provide a delicious contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.

Possible variations: If you want to customize your recipe, you can add other seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, peas, or even mushrooms. Also, if you prefer a spicier soup, you can add a bit of chili pepper or spices like cayenne pepper.

Nutritional benefits: Chicken noodle soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken is rich in lean protein, and the vegetables contribute fiber and antioxidants, aiding in healthy digestion and strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey can be a healthy and delicious alternative.
2. How can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. What type of noodles is best? Thin noodles are preferred for their texture, but you can experiment with other types of pasta depending on your preferences.

Calories: A serving of chicken noodle soup contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used.

This chicken noodle soup is not just a delicious dish but also a recipe that brings back memories and family stories, being a true symbol of warmth and comfort. Try this simple and quick recipe, and your loved ones will surely appreciate your effort. Enjoy!