Why Chicken Noodle Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food and Natural Remedy
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup when you need a little comfort. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, looking for a wholesome meal, or just fancy something warming, this classic dish ticks all the boxes. In this post, we’ll explore why chicken noodle soup is so good for you, how it can help with common ailments, and provide a tasty recipe you can easily whip up at home.
Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery sticks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 litres chicken stock
- 300g cooked chicken, shredded (leftover roast chicken is perfect!)
- 150g egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley to garnish (optional)
Method:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the crushed garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Add the thyme and parsley.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
- In a separate pot, cook the noodles according to the packet instructions. This stops them from becoming too soft in the soup later on.
- Drain the noodles and add them to the soup. Stir everything together, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve immediately.
Your Chicken Noodle Soup Questions Answered
Is Chicken Noodle Soup Healthy?
Absolutely! Chicken noodle soup can be a nourishing and low-calorie meal. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and fibre. By using a light chicken stock, it’s also a low-fat option. If you’re looking to boost the health factor even more, swap egg noodles for whole wheat pasta or add more veg, like spinach or kale, for extra nutrients.
Why Do Doctors Recommend Chicken Noodle Soup?
Doctors often suggest chicken noodle soup when you’re feeling poorly because it’s light, easy to digest, and helps keep you hydrated. The warm broth is soothing for sore throats, and the nutrients from the chicken and veg give your immune system a little boost. Plus, when you’re under the weather, a bowl of soup can just feel like a big warm hug!
Do You Cook Noodles Before Adding to Chicken Soup?
It’s a good idea to cook the noodles separately before adding them to the soup. This prevents them from becoming mushy by absorbing too much liquid while cooking in the soup. Cooking them separately also helps ensure the broth stays clear, rather than becoming cloudy from the starch in the pasta.
What Does Chicken Noodle Soup Do for the Flu?
Chicken noodle soup can be a real lifesaver when you’ve got the flu. The warm broth helps loosen congestion, the salt can ease a sore throat, and the steam can open up your nasal passages. The chicken and veg provide nutrients that help keep your body strong while it fights off the virus, and the broth keeps you hydrated, which is key when you’re unwell.
Is It Okay to Eat Chicken Noodle Soup Every Day?
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying chicken noodle soup regularly, especially if you make it at home where you control the ingredients. It’s light, hydrating, and nutritious. However, like any food, it’s important to maintain variety in your diet to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients. If you do make it often, try switching up the vegetables or using different herbs and spices to keep things interesting.
Why Does Chicken Noodle Soup Help an Upset Stomach?
Chicken noodle soup is gentle on the stomach, which makes it great if you’re feeling queasy. The broth is easy to digest, and the warmth can soothe an upset stomach. Plus, the soup contains fluids and electrolytes that help rehydrate you, especially if you’ve been feeling unwell or have lost fluids through sickness.
The Perfect Remedy: Simple, Wholesome Chicken Noodle Soup at Home
Chicken noodle soup isn’t just a tasty meal – it’s also a go-to remedy for colds, flu, and upset stomachs. And the best part? You can easily make it at home with simple, wholesome ingredients.
If you’re on the lookout for more comforting recipes, check out our soup dumplings recipe for more inspiration.
For an interesting read on the cultural history of chicken noodle soup, take a look at this chicken noodle soup history guide
Make a batch today and enjoy the comforting warmth this classic dish offers!