Spring Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Spring Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup egg noodles; 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen); 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Recipes

I love making Spring Chicken Noodle Soup during the transitional months when fresh vegetables are abundant. The broth is light yet flavorful, and it perfectly complements the tender chicken and vibrant greens. This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the essence of spring in a warm bowl, and it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. I enjoy customizing it with my favorite seasonal vegetables, which adds a personal touch and makes each pot unique!

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:57:38.109Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to create something that celebrated the freshness of spring. I focused on incorporating seasonal vegetables like asparagus and peas, which provide a wonderful crunch and vibrancy. Using homemade or quality store-bought chicken broth made all the difference in enhancing the flavor. This soup has become a family favorite!

One tip I discovered is to not overcook the noodles; they should remain firm to the bite to avoid getting mushy. Adding fresh herbs like parsley and dill just before serving adds a burst of flavor that brightens the entire dish. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Light and refreshing, perfect for springtime meals
A customizable dish that allows for seasonal vegetable swaps
Comforting and nourishing, making it ideal for family gatherings

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients in your Spring Chicken Noodle Soup positively impacts the taste and nutrient profile of your dish. Fresh vegetables like asparagus and peas, when in season, are vibrant and packed with flavor. Aim for firm, brightly colored vegetables to ensure the best taste. The quality of your chicken will also play a crucial role; opt for free-range or organic chicken for superior flavor and ethical assurance.

Fresh herbs, particularly parsley, not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a fragrant note. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to further brighten the flavors; the acidity from the lemon balances the richness of the broth beautifully.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the best aspects of making Spring Chicken Noodle Soup is its versatility. Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you love. For a twist, try adding green beans, zucchini, or even spinach; they can be added during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain their texture and color. This adaptability allows you to keep the recipe exciting and new each time you make it.

If you're looking for additional protein or a heartier meal, consider incorporating chickpeas or white beans. Just be mindful to adjust cooking times so that these ingredients don’t dominate the flavor of the broth, which should remain the star of the dish.

Storing and Reheating Your Soup

This soup is perfect for batch cooking! If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency, as noodles tend to absorb liquid while stored.

When reheating chicken noodle soup, do so gently to prevent the chicken from becoming tough. A good rule of thumb is to heat until just bubbling throughout. If you find the noodles have become too soft, feel free to add fresh cooked noodles when serving to rejuvenate the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup egg noodles
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 cup asparagus, trimmed and chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all your ingredients are prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and reduce to a simmer.

Cook the Noodles and Vegetables

Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions. In the last few minutes of cooking, add the peas and asparagus. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your vibrant and hearty Spring Chicken Noodle Soup!

Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite spring vegetables!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This brightens the taste and complements the chicken beautifully.

Expert Tips for Perfect Broth

To achieve a deeply flavorful broth, consider simmering your chicken bones or carcass for a few hours prior to starting the soup. You can strain this rich stock and use it as the base for your soup. This technique results in a more robust flavor profile, elevating your dish to new heights.

Be sure to skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface after adding the chicken to the broth; this will ensure a cleaner taste and help prevent any cloudiness in your soup.

Enhancing Flavor with Spices

While the simple combination of salt and pepper is a classic seasoning choice, consider adding bay leaves, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes during the broth’s simmering phase to infuse more complexity. These spices complement the fresh vegetables wonderfully and can bring an unexpectedly delightful twist to the traditional recipe.

As you are seasoning the soup, taste along the way. Each ingredient can vary in intensity, and adjusting spices gradually gives you control over the final flavor. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s difficult to take flavor out once it’s in!

Serving Suggestions

For a more substantial meal, consider pairing your soup with a crunchy side salad or crusty bread. A light vinaigrette salad can enhance the fresh flavors of the soup, while bread adds a satisfying texture that contrasts perfectly with the broth’s warmth.

Garnishing your soup with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a dollop of Greek yogurt can elevate your presentation and add interesting flavor notes. For a garnish option, try serving with a few toasted croutons for added crunch and visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe and saves you time.

→ What if I don’t have egg noodles?

You can substitute with any pasta you have on hand, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ Is this soup freezable?

Yes, but it's best to freeze without the noodles and add them fresh when you reheat.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add spinach, kale, or any seasonal greens to enhance the nutritional value of the soup.