This Chicken Rice Noodle Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any day! With tender chicken and soft rice noodles in a flavorful broth, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
I love how easy it is to whip up, and my whole family enjoys it. You can toss in your favorite veggies too! Who knew feeling cozy could be so tasty? 🥣😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is my top choice for rich flavor, but low-sodium store-bought works too. You can even use vegetable broth for a lighter option!
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness, but breasts are leaner. Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep!
Rice Noodles: Thin rice noodles add a nice texture, but if you can’t find them, glass noodles or even udon work well. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Vegetables: I like adding mushrooms or bok choy for more depth. You can also replace carrots with bell peppers or snow peas if you prefer. Get creative!
How Do I Get the Broth Just Right?
The broth is key to this soup’s flavor. Sautéing the garlic, ginger, and white parts of green onion first builds a flavorful base. Be sure to simmer the chicken gently to keep it juicy. A gentle boil ensures you get a clear broth without cloudiness.
- Heat oil in the pot and sauté aromatics for a few minutes.
- Add broth and chicken, then cook on low to avoid overcooking the meat.
- Adjust seasonings after you return the chicken to get that perfect taste!
How to Make Chicken Rice Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 6 oz rice noodles (thin or medium thickness)
- 1 small carrot, finely diced
- 3 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, chili flakes or chili oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting Chicken Rice Noodle Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delightful dish that’s ready in about 35 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant and delightful.
2. Prepare the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. This will create a comforting base for your soup!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the whole chicken breasts or thighs into the pot. Lower the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. This step makes sure it stays juicy!
4. Handle the Noodles:
While the chicken is cooking, soak or boil the rice noodles following the package instructions until they’re soft. Once done, drain them and set aside for later.
5. Shred the Chicken:
When the chicken is cooked, carefully take it out of the broth. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It’s going to be tender and flaky!
6. Add the Carrots:
Introduce the diced carrots and soy sauce to the broth. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the carrots soften a bit. This adds both color and flavor!
7. Combine & Adjust:
Return the shredded chicken back into the pot, stirring to combine everything nicely. Taste your broth and adjust with salt and black pepper if needed. Yum!
8. Serve It Up:
Now, it’s time to serve! Place a portion of the cooked rice noodles in each bowl, then ladle the hot broth with chicken and carrots over the top. The mix of textures is just wonderful!
9. Garnish & Enjoy:
Generously sprinkle chopped green onions (the green parts) on top, and if you like, add cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or some chili oil for a little kick. Enjoy your warm and comforting Chicken Rice Noodle Soup!
This recipe promises a clear, flavorful broth filled with tender chicken and soft rice noodles, all beautifully complemented by fresh green onions and carrots, just like in the picture!
Can I Use Different Noodles for This Soup?
Absolutely! While rice noodles are traditional, you can substitute with glass noodles or even udon noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the type of noodle you choose!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. You can also add extra vegetables like bok choy or mushrooms for more flavor!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, the noodles may soak up broth and get soft. To refresh, reheat the soup on the stove, adding a bit more broth as needed.
What’s a Good Side Dish to Serve with This?
This soup can be a meal on its own, but pairing it with a light salad or some spring rolls makes for a delightful, complete dinner. Enjoy the refreshing contrast!