This Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup is warm, comforting, and perfect for cozy days. It has tender chicken, fresh veggies, and gluten-free noodles that make it hearty and filling!
Whenever I whip up this soup, it feels like a big hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s super easy to make on a busy night. I just toss everything in and let it simmer—simple comfort at its best!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Olive oil is a great base for sautéing veggies. If you’re low on it, feel free to use avocado oil or coconut oil. They work nicely too!
Chicken Broth: Always check that it’s labeled gluten-free. You can also use vegetable broth for a different flavor, or even homemade broth if you have it on hand.
Gluten-Free Noodles: I love using brown rice noodles, but you can substitute with zucchini noodles or even cooked quinoa for a lighter version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Vegetables: Carrots and celery add flavor and nutrition. If you’re out, try using frozen mixed vegetables. They’re a great time-saver!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Soup?
The key to a flavorful soup lies in properly sautéing the vegetables at the beginning. Cooking them in olive oil over medium heat releases their natural flavors and sweetness.
- Start with the onion, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t rush the garlic; just a minute after adding it is perfect to avoid burning.
- Season with herbs early on to infuse the flavors into the broth as it simmers.
These few steps make a big difference in taste! Enjoy your warm bowl of goodness!
Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (gluten-free)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts)
- 6 ounces gluten-free noodles (like spaghetti or fettuccine, broken into shorter pieces)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup comes together in about 35 minutes. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep your ingredients and another 25 minutes to cook everything to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften. This step builds the flavor base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; we want it to add flavor, not bitterness!
3. Create the Soup Base:
Pour in the gluten-free chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme and parsley. If you’re using a bay leaf, add that too! Bring the soup to a gentle boil over high heat.
4. Simmer Away:
Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes. This will let the vegetables become tender and absorb the delicious flavors.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the gluten-free noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually around 6-8 minutes) until they’re al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
6. Add Chicken:
Now, stir in the shredded chicken and let it heat through for about 2-3 minutes. This is where your soup gets its heartiness!
7. Season and Serve:
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the bay leaf if you added one. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot, and enjoy this comforting gluten-free classic. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up!
Can I Use Other Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! If you can’t find gluten-free noodles, quinoa, or even spiralized zucchini can be great substitutes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, omit the chicken, and consider adding extra vegetables or beans for protein instead.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It should stay good for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
