Chicken Noodle Soup

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 8 ounces (225g) egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried parsley, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the soup and stir to warm it through.
7. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup back to a boil.
8. Add the egg noodles to the boiling soup and cook them according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes or until tender).
9. Once the noodles are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaf.
10. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
11. Ladle the warm and comforting Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
12. Serve hot and enjoy!

History:

Chicken Noodle Soup has a long history of being a nourishing and comforting dish. The exact origins of the soup are not well-documented, but variations of it have been found in cuisines from different cultures throughout history.

In the United States, Chicken Noodle Soup gained popularity as a go-to remedy for colds and flu due to its soothing and restorative properties. It is often regarded as "comfort food" and is commonly associated with feelings of warmth and healing.

Today, Chicken Noodle Soup remains a beloved classic that brings comfort and solace during times of illness or simply as a delightful and satisfying meal on any occasion.

Interesting Facts:

- Chicken Noodle Soup is known for its soothing properties, and many believe it can help alleviate cold and flu symptoms due to its warm and hydrating nature.

- The combination of chicken, vegetables, and noodles makes Chicken Noodle Soup a balanced and complete meal.

- In some cultures, variations of Chicken Noodle Soup are prepared with additional ingredients such as ginger, lemongrass, or chili, adding unique flavors and health benefits.

- Canned and pre-packaged versions of Chicken Noodle Soup are widely available, but making it from scratch allows you to customize the flavors and ingredients to your liking.

Note: Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.