Ultimate Chicken Noodle Soup

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Soup Base:**
– Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
– Add the garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 4-5 minutes. This step allows the vegetables to release their natural sweetness, enhancing the soup’s flavor.

2. **Build the Broth:**
– Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the dried thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
– Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and the vegetables to soften.

3. **Cook the Noodles:**
– Add the egg noodles to the simmering soup. You can also use other types of pasta, such as rotini or shells, if you prefer. Let the noodles cook for about 8-10 minutes, or according to package instructions, until al dente. Make sure not to overcook the noodles, as they will continue to cook a bit more in the hot broth after you turn off the heat.

4. **Add the Chicken:**
– Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the shredded chicken. If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken, this is a perfect way to incorporate the flavors without spending too much time on preparation. Let the chicken heat through, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

5. **Optional Add-ins:**
– If you want to add a pop of color and extra nutrients, you can toss in some frozen peas or corn. These ingredients are optional but they brighten up the soup and add a subtle sweetness. Let them cook for an additional 2 minutes.

6. **Taste and Adjust:**
– Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it tastes too bland, a pinch more salt and pepper can make all the difference. If you like a bit more flavor depth, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce.

7. **Serve:**
– Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a fresh, herbaceous touch.

### Why This Is the Ultimate Chicken Noodle Soup:

1. **Rich Broth:** Homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth provides the foundation for an unforgettable flavor. The long simmering time allows the broth to absorb all the flavors from the vegetables and spices, giving it a deep, satisfying taste.

2. **Tender Chicken:** Using rotisserie chicken or cooking your own ensures that the chicken is moist, tender, and flavorful. It adds the perfect protein to complement the broth and vegetables.

3. **Perfect Noodles:** The egg noodles add a comforting texture and soak up the flavors of the soup without becoming mushy. Their soft, chewy texture balances perfectly with the crisp vegetables and tender chicken.

4. **Customizable:** This recipe allows for plenty of customization. You can add peas, corn, or even a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness. Want a little heat? Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

5. **Healthful & Nutritious:** The combination of vegetables, lean chicken, and nourishing broth makes this soup not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s perfect for boosting your immune system on those days when you need a little extra comfort.

### Tips for the Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup:

– **Use Homemade Broth:** If you have the time, making your own chicken broth is a game changer. It’s easy to do, and the flavors will be richer and more complex than store-bought versions.
– **Don’t Overcook the Noodles:** If you plan to have leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to the soup just before serving. This prevents them from becoming overly soft and absorbing too much broth over time.
– **Chicken Options:** If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, simply cook chicken breasts or thighs in the broth before adding the vegetables. Shred or chop the cooked chicken and add it back into the soup.
– **Freeze for Later:** This soup freezes wonderfully! Make a big batch and store individual portions in freezer-safe containers for easy meals later.

### Conclusion:

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Ultimate Chicken Noodle Soup to make you feel cozy and cared for. Whether you’re nursing a cold, winding down after a busy day, or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this soup is the answer. Its balance of tender chicken, savory broth, and comforting noodles makes it the ideal dish for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, make a pot, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this ultimate chicken noodle soup with your loved ones.

Bon Appétit!