Chicken Chicken Noodle Soup with Bone Broth

Chicken noodle soup is a timeless comfort food, a culinary hug on a chilly day. But elevating it with bone broth takes it to a whole new level, enhancing both the flavor and the nutritional benefits. This recipe explores the art of crafting a rich, flavorful chicken noodle soup using homemade or high-quality store-bought bone broth, offering a nourishing and deeply satisfying meal.

The Magic of Bone Broth in Chicken Noodle Soup

Bone broth, unlike regular broth or stock, is simmered for a prolonged period, often 12-24 hours or even longer. This extended simmering process extracts collagen, gelatin, and vital minerals from the bones, resulting in a broth that is exceptionally rich in nutrients and flavor.

Why Bone Broth Matters

• Enhanced Flavor: Bone broth lends a deeper, more complex flavor profile to your soup. The long simmering process allows the flavors of the bones and vegetables to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory base.
• Nutritional Powerhouse: Bone broth is packed with collagen, which is beneficial for skin health, joint health, and gut health. It also contains amino acids, minerals like calcium and phosphorus, and gelatin, which can aid in digestion.
• Improved Texture: The gelatin in bone broth adds a silky, luxurious texture to the soup, making it even more comforting and satisfying.

Bone Broth vs. Stock and Broth

Understanding the difference between bone broth, stock, and regular broth is key. Broth is typically made with meat and vegetables and simmered for a shorter period. Stock is made with bones and vegetables, simmered for a longer period than broth but shorter than bone broth. Bone broth is exclusively bones and vegetables simmered for many hours. This extended simmering unlocks its unique health and flavor properties.

Crafting the Perfect Bone Broth

While you can use store-bought bone broth, making your own is a rewarding experience that allows you to control the ingredients and flavor.

Homemade Bone Broth Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2-3 pounds chicken bones (carcasses, backs, necks, and wings work well)
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals)
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 12-16 cups water
• Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme

Instructions:

1. Roast the Bones (Optional): Roasting the chicken bones before simmering adds depth and richness to the flavor of the broth. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

2. Combine Ingredients: Place the roasted (or raw) chicken bones, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, apple cider vinegar, and peppercorns in a large stockpot or slow cooker.

3. Add Water: Pour in enough water to cover the bones and vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

4. Simmer: Simmer for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor and the more nutrients will be extracted.

5. Strain: Once the broth is done simmering, let it cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth to remove the solids.

6. Store: Store the bone broth in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips for a Flavorful Bone Broth

• Roast the Bones: Roasting the bones beforehand intensifies the flavor.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose organic, pasture-raised chicken bones and fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition.
• Don’t Skimp on the Simmer Time: The longer the broth simmers, the more flavorful and nutrient-rich it will be.
• Add Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar helps to extract minerals from the bones.
• Skim the Foam: Skimming off the foam that rises to the surface during simmering will result in a clearer broth.

Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe with Bone Broth

Now that you have your bone broth ready, it’s time to create the ultimate chicken noodle soup.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups bone broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 8 ounces egg noodles (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and sear until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from pot and set aside.

2. Sauté Vegetables: Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, and rosemary and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add Bone Broth and Chicken: Pour in bone broth and bring to a boil. Return chicken to the pot. If using a bay leaf, add it now. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.

4. Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot. Remove and discard bay leaf.

5. Cook the Noodles: Add egg noodles to the pot and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes.

6. Finish and Serve: Stir in fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations and Additions

• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, spinach, or zucchini.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill, oregano, or sage.
• Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor of the soup.
• Rice or Grains: Substitute rice, quinoa, or barley for the noodles.

Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup

Creating the perfect chicken noodle soup is a simple process, but keeping a few tips in mind will help you take it to the next level.

Achieving Optimal Flavor

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy and detract from the overall texture of the soup. Cook them al dente, or slightly undercooked, as they will continue to cook in the hot broth.
• Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season your soup generously with salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor and aroma to the soup. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can substitute dried herbs, but use about half the amount.
• Brown the Chicken and Vegetables: Browning the chicken and vegetables before adding the bone broth adds depth of flavor to the soup.

Storing and Reheating

• Store: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Freezing: Chicken noodle soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed above.

Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup with Bone Broth

Beyond its comforting taste, chicken noodle soup with bone broth offers a range of health benefits.

Immune-Boosting Properties

The combination of chicken, vegetables, and bone broth provides essential nutrients that can help boost your immune system.

• Chicken: Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. It also contains zinc, which is important for immune function.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune health.
• Bone Broth: Bone broth is rich in collagen, gelatin, and amino acids that can help reduce inflammation and support gut health, which is crucial for a strong immune system.

Soothing Sore Throats and Colds

Chicken noodle soup is a classic remedy for sore throats and colds, and for good reason.

• Hydration: The broth helps to keep you hydrated, which is important when you’re sick.
• Electrolytes: Bone broth contains electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which can help replenish those lost through sweating and illness.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The amino acids in bone broth, such as glycine and proline, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract.

Gut Health Support

The gelatin and collagen in bone broth can help support gut health by lining the digestive tract and reducing inflammation. A healthy gut is essential for overall well-being and a strong immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is chicken noodle soup with bone broth good for you?

Yes! The combination of bone broth, chicken, vegetables, and noodles provides essential nutrients, including protein, vitamins, minerals, and collagen, making it a nourishing and beneficial meal.

• What is the difference between chicken broth and chicken bone broth?

Chicken broth is typically made from simmering chicken meat and vegetables for a short period. Chicken bone broth is made from simmering chicken bones and vegetables for a much longer period (12-24 hours or more). This longer simmering process extracts more collagen, gelatin, and minerals from the bones, resulting in a richer flavor and more nutritional benefits.

• How do you thicken chicken noodle soup with bone broth?

There are several ways to thicken chicken noodle soup. You can mash some of the cooked vegetables with a fork before adding them back to the soup. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering soup. Letting the soup simmer uncovered for a longer period will also allow it to reduce and thicken naturally.

• Can I make chicken noodle soup with bone broth in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Follow the recipe instructions, but instead of cooking on the stovetop, transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through. Shred the chicken and return it to the slow cooker. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking time, or cook them separately and add them to the soup before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.

• Can I freeze chicken noodle soup with bone broth?

Yes, chicken noodle soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be aware that the noodles may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing.