Spring Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Spring Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups egg noodles; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Inspiration

I absolutely love making my Spring Chicken Noodle Soup, especially when the weather starts to warm up. The combination of fresh vegetables and tender chicken gives this soup a vibrant flavor that evokes the essence of spring. I take great pleasure in selecting seasonal ingredients, which really makes a difference in taste. Plus, it’s the perfect dish to cozy up with on a chilly evening, providing comfort and nourishment in every bowl. This recipe is one I’m excited to share with friends and family, and I hope it brings you as much joy as it does me.

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:35:35.393Z

When I first made Spring Chicken Noodle Soup, I was inspired by the crisp flavors of spring vegetables. As soon as I took my first sip, the delightful taste came together in a symphony of fresh herbs and tender noodles. It was a simple method, just letting the chicken simmer to release its flavors, but the end result proved far greater than the sum of its parts. It always amazes me how a few quality ingredients can create such a comforting, hearty dish.

One specific tip I found helpful is to add the vegetables gradually, depending on their cook time. For instance, I add carrots first, followed by peas and spinach. This ensures that every ingredient retains its texture and flavor, making the soup truly vibrant. I love whipping this up on a Saturday afternoon when I have a little extra time to let the flavors meld together.

Reasons You'll Love This Soup
Fresh, vibrant flavors that signal the arrival of spring
Hearty noodles and tender chicken provide comforting satisfaction
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Choosing Quality Ingredients

When making Spring Chicken Noodle Soup, the quality of your ingredients greatly impacts the flavor. I recommend using fresh, organic vegetables when available; the vibrant colors and flavors complement the dish beautifully. For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts tend to work best due to their tenderness, but thighs can be used for a richer taste. Just remember that thighs have a slightly different cooking time as they may need a couple of extra minutes to cook through.

Egg noodles add a hearty texture to this soup, but if you're looking for variations, consider alternatives like whole wheat noodles or even gluten-free options. Just keep an eye on the cooking times since these can vary significantly. Fresh spinach brings a light, earthy flavor that truly embodies spring, while frozen peas are a reliable option that retain sweetness without the need for prep.

Perfecting the Technique

Sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery properly at the beginning lays a flavor foundation known as the 'mirepoix.' Aim for a light golden color, which indicates they are softened and releasing their natural sugars. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce your heat to medium-low to avoid any burnt flavors seeping into your soup.

When adding the chicken, ensure it's cut into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. You want those chicken cubes to be just cooked through and no longer pink, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently, and watch for the chicken to lose its raw look and turn white—the texture should be tender and moist.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started with your Spring Chicken Noodle Soup:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound chicken breast, diced
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups egg noodles
1 cup frozen peas
2 cups fresh spinach
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have gathered all these ingredients, you are ready to create a delightful and heartwarming soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Spring Chicken Noodle Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Cook the Chicken

Stir in the minced garlic and diced chicken breast. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Broth and Seasoning

Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Add Noodles and Vegetables

Once boiling, add egg noodles and reduce heat. Simmer for 10 minutes, then add peas and spinach, cooking for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your warm bowl of Spring Chicken Noodle Soup!

Now that your soup is ready, serve it hot and enjoy the delightful, cozy flavors!

Pro Tips

Using homemade chicken broth can elevate the flavor of this dish significantly. If time permits, consider simmering chicken bones for a richer broth.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This soup is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the soup up until the point of adding the noodles and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warm, then add the noodles and continue cooking as directed for fresh texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup without the noodles. It can be stored in airtight containers for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Add fresh noodles once heated to avoid a mushy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Spring Chicken Noodle Soup with a crusty bread or a side salad to complete the meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful richness that complements the broth perfectly. You might also consider adding a dash of lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish that enhances the springtime flavors.

If you're feeling adventurous, customize your soup by including other seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking. They add vibrant colors and fresh textures that elevate each bowl. Don't hesitate to adjust seasonings as well—testing for salt and pepper before serving can make a big difference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Shredded leftover rotisserie chicken works great and can save time.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?

Yes! You can replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well! Just leave the noodles out and add them when reheating.