Summer Chicken Noodle Soup
This Summer Chicken Noodle Soup is a light and refreshing take on the classic, featuring vibrant vegetables and tender chicken in a flavorful broth. Perfect for those warm days when you want something comforting yet not too heavy!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the garlic, thyme, and oregano, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Cook the Noodles:
- Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually about 7-9 minutes) until al dente.
4. Add Chicken and Vegetables:
- Stir in the cooked chicken, corn, green beans, and zucchini.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and heated through.
5. Season and Serve:
- Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the lemon juice for brightness.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips:
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the soup base in advance and add the noodles just before serving to keep them from getting mushy.
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to add any summer veggies you have on hand, such as bell peppers or squash.
- Add a twist: For a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Enjoy this Summer Chicken Noodle Soup as a light and nourishing meal that captures the essence of summer!