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: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups egg noodles; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup celery, chopped; 1 cup snap peas, trimmed; 1 cup asparagus, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Inspiration

I love making Spring Chicken Noodle Soup when the weather starts to warm up, and fresh ingredients are plentiful. The vibrant colors of the vegetables remind me that spring is finally here. This soup is a comforting yet refreshing dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and hearty noodles. Every spoonful brings a nostalgic warmth that makes me feel at home. It's perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:05:35.717Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of using fresh spring vegetables in my chicken noodle soup, I was worried about losing the classic comforting flavor. However, after experimenting with various herbs and bright veggies like snap peas and asparagus, I discovered a balance that perfectly complements the tender chicken. The freshness truly elevates this classic dish, making it feel light yet hearty for any meal.

I also learned that the right noodle makes a significant difference; I love using egg noodles for this soup because they absorb the flavors beautifully. Cooking them directly in the broth enhances the texture and creates a soul-soothing experience with every bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant ingredients that celebrate spring
A comforting tradition with a delightful twist
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables

Ingredient Highlights

The beauty of Spring Chicken Noodle Soup lies in its fresh ingredients. The tender chicken breast not only provides protein but also a rich flavor base when simmered. The chicken broth amplifies this, giving the soup depth and heartiness that warms you from the inside. As the chicken cooks, it infuses the broth with subtle chicken flavor, which harmonizes beautifully with the crisp vegetables.

Vegetables like snap peas and asparagus are crucial not just for their vibrant color but for their crisp textures which contrast wonderfully with the soft noodles. Their quick cooking time helps preserve the nutrients and crunch, ensuring that each spoonful is as refreshing as it is soothing. I love how each bite combines the texture of tender chicken, firm noodles, and crunchy veggies!

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding the broth builds a flavorful foundation for the soup. It's essential to do this over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step prevents bitterness and ensures a sweet, savory base that elevates the overall dish. Overcooked garlic can be bitter, so keep an eye on it during this process.

When cooking the chicken, aim for a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil. This way, the chicken remains juicy and tender rather than tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken's doneness – it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After cooking, shred it while it's still warm for easier handling; this makes for tender shreds that reheat nicely in the soup.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spring Chicken Noodle Soup

Soup Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups egg noodles
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup snap peas, trimmed
1 cup asparagus, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add any of your favorite spring vegetables!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breast to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Add Vegetables and Noodles

Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Stir in the carrots, celery, snap peas, asparagus, thyme, and egg noodles. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until the noodles are tender.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of spring in every bowl!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock or adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This soup is a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare the entire recipe, then cool it to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a great choice for leftovers. Just reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if necessary.

If you plan to store it longer, consider freezing portions. Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it into freezer bags or containers, leaving some room for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for a quick, hearty meal.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize your Spring Chicken Noodle Soup based on seasonal vegetables or personal preferences. For a more hearty version, you could add potatoes or swap in whole grain noodles for extra fiber. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, replace the chicken with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth – this creates a different yet equally satisfying soup.

For a spicy twist, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while the soup simmers. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also be incorporated at the end of cooking to introduce bright, fresh notes. I often add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a delightful pop of acidity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Just add it in with the vegetables in the last stage of cooking.

→ What can I substitute for egg noodles?

You can use whole wheat noodles, rice noodles, or even skip the noodles for a low-carb option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can refrigerate the soup for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to omit the noodles, as they can become mushy upon reheating.