This comforting gluten-free chicken noodle soup is packed with tender chicken, veggies, and noodles that are safe for everyone to enjoy. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
On a chilly day, there’s nothing better than a steaming bowl of this soup. I love how quick it comes together, and leftovers? They disappear faster than you can say “second serving!” 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil adds a nice flavor to the base. If you’re out of olive oil, try coconut oil or avocado oil for a different but tasty twist.
Chicken Broth: Using gluten-free chicken broth is essential. You can also make your own by simmering chicken bones with vegetables and herbs. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth works well, although the flavor profile will change.
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for moistness. If you prefer, you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
Noodles: Gluten-free rotini or egg noodles are perfect here. If you have difficulty finding gluten-free options, rice noodles or even quinoa can be a healthy substitute—just adjust cooking times according to the package directions.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor in My Soup?
Building flavor is important for a delicious soup. First, ensure you cook your veggies until they’re soft, as this enhances the taste. When adding garlic, don’t let it burn—just a minute is enough! Season as you go, tasting the broth to adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning your onions and garlic.
- Shredding the chicken after cooking lets it absorb the broth’s flavor.
- Don’t forget to taste before serving; little tweaks can make a big difference!
How to Make Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (gluten-free)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 6 ounces gluten-free rotini or egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting chicken noodle soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes while stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften a bit.
2. Add Garlic for Flavor:
Now it’s time to stir in the minced garlic. Cook for just 1 minute until you can smell that lovely aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Bring in the Broth and Chicken:
Pour in the chicken broth and carefully add the chicken breasts or thighs whole. Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the pot and shred it using two forks. Set it aside for now while we get the noodles ready.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the gluten-free noodles, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook according to the noodle package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until they’re tender.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and heat everything together for another 2-3 minutes. Take a moment to enjoy the wonderful smells wafting through your kitchen!
7. Season and Serve:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
8. Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy your comforting, gluten-free chicken noodle soup! It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day or whenever you need a little comfort in a bowl.
There you have it! A delicious gluten-free chicken noodle soup recipe that’s easy to follow, perfect for everyone!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. If you place it directly in the pot while frozen, you’ll need to cook it for a longer time until it’s fully cooked through.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add chickpeas or tofu for protein, and throw in extra vegetables of your choice to make it hearty and filling.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much when refrigerated.
What Noodles Work Best in This Recipe?
Gluten-free rotini or egg noodles are great choices for this soup. If you’re avoiding gluten entirely, make sure to check the packages for certified gluten-free labels. You can also experiment with rice noodles or quinoa if you prefer a different texture.