Spring Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Spring Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup egg noodles; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 cups fresh spinach; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Inspiration

I love making this Spring Chicken Noodle Soup during the first warm days of the season. It’s a refreshing twist on the classic comfort food that warms my heart. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and vibrant herbs makes it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. I often find myself experimenting with different vegetables based on what I have on hand, and it always turns out deliciously. This soup not only satisfies my cravings but also brightens up my kitchen with its colorful presentation.

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:33:36.604Z

When I first made this Spring Chicken Noodle Soup, I wanted to create something that captures the essence of springtime in every bowl. The result was more than I hoped for—a delightful balance of flavors and textures that truly celebrates the season. Each spoonful is filled with tender chicken, vibrant greens, and a hint of lemon that brings everything together beautifully.

To enhance the flavor, I always add a splash of white wine during the sautéing process, which adds depth and richness without overpowering the dish. This little trick transforms a simple soup into something truly special and makes the whole kitchen smell divine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A light yet hearty dish perfect for spring days
Packed with fresh veggies and herbs for a nutritious boost
Quick to make, making it an easy weeknight dinner option

Choosing the Right Chicken

When it comes to making Spring Chicken Noodle Soup, the type of chicken you choose can greatly affect the flavor and texture of your dish. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time and ability to absorb the flavors of the broth. However, boneless thighs can also be a great choice if you prefer a richer taste. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time slightly, as thighs usually need an additional 5-10 minutes to become tender.

If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can also work as a convenient shortcut. Simply shred it and add it towards the end of the cooking process. It’s important to incorporate it along with the spinach so it warms through without overcooking. This keeps your soup flavorful and saves time during busy weeknights.

Making the Most of Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs give this soup its vibrant flavor. Thyme is used in this recipe for a warm, earthy note, which pairs beautifully with chicken. However, don't be afraid to experiment with fresh dill or basil to add an extra layer of freshness. These herbs can be added towards the end of cooking to maintain their flavor and aroma. I love using a combination of herbs, which provides a fuller taste profile, enhancing the overall freshness of the soup.

If you’re unavailable to get fresh herbs, dried alternatives can be used, although the flavors may not be as robust. In that case, consider using half the amount of dried herbs as they are more concentrated. Remember to add dried herbs at the beginning of cooking to allow them to rehydrate and release their flavors.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the beauties of Spring Chicken Noodle Soup is that it stores tremendously well, making it perfect for meal prep. Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If you freeze it, I recommend omitting the noodles at first, as they can become mushy when reheated. Instead, cook fresh noodles just before serving.

To reheat the soup, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to achieve your desired consistency. If you're starting with frozen soup, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This ensures that the soup's texture and flavors remain intact during the reheating process.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup egg noodles
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 cups fresh spinach
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the pot and season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Add Noodles and Spinach

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the shredded chicken and fresh spinach. Stir in lemon juice before serving.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your warm and comforting Spring Chicken Noodle Soup!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a splash of white wine to the pot while sautéing the vegetables. This adds depth and a hint of acidity that brightens the overall flavor of the soup.

Ingredient Variations

You can customize this soup based on seasonal vegetables you have on hand or prefer. Possible additions include peas, green beans, or even kale for a different texture. If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables. This not only adds a pleasant warmth but also enhances the overall depth of the soup.

For a heartier dish, consider adding potatoes or whole grains like quinoa in place of the egg noodles. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the ingredient, so be sure to monitor them closely. This allows for a nourishing twist that retains the light feel of the original recipe while adding extra fiber and nutrition.

Tips for Perfecting the Broth

To elevate the flavor of your chicken broth, consider simmering it with aromatics such as bay leaves or peppercorns. This simple enhancement adds complexity to your soup without much effort. Just remember to remove these ingredients before serving to ensure a smooth texture. Also, using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level, especially beneficial if you're watching your sodium intake.

If you have leftover roasted veggies or herbs, their addition to the broth during simmering can impart a deep, roasted flavor. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pot; too many ingredients can dilute the broth's richness. Aim for balance, ensuring that the chicken remains the star of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

To turn your soup into a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. This adds texture and rounds out the meal beautifully. Consider making a simple garlic bread to dip into the soup, enhancing the experience with extra flavor.

Another delightful way to serve this soup is to add a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. These garnishes not only add a visual appeal but also enhance the flavor, making each bowl of soup a little more special. Don't be shy about experimenting with toppings; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors even more!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken can save time! Just add it towards the end of cooking to heat through.

→ What can I substitute for egg noodles?

You can substitute with any pasta you have on hand, or use zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option!

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Stored in an airtight container, leftovers can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just be sure to leave out the noodles until you’re ready to eat it, as they can become mushy when frozen.