Growing up, my mom’s gluten free chicken noodle soup was the ultimate comfort food. Whenever I was feeling under the weather or just needed a little extra warmth and care, she’d whip up a big batch and bring it to me, simmering with homemade broth, tender chicken, and perfectly al dente gluten free noodles. The aroma alone was enough to lift my spirits and make me feel better. To this day, that comforting flavor profile takes me right back to those cozy moments curled up on the couch, sipping on a steaming bowl.
That’s why I’m so excited to share my own tried-and-true recipe for the best gluten free chicken noodle soup. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I know it will become a go-to for you too. With a few simple tricks, you can achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures, all while keeping it 100% gluten free.
Why This Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup
The key to making an exceptional gluten free chicken noodle soup lies in the broth. By simmering the chicken bones for hours, you’ll extract maximum flavor and create a rich, velvety base that’s the foundation for the entire dish. I also like to add in a few aromatic veggies like onions, carrots, and celery to really amp up the savory notes. And of course, using premium gluten free noodles ensures the perfect al dente texture that holds up beautifully in the soup.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken – I prefer to use a whole chicken or a mix of dark and white meat. This gives you the most flavorful broth and tender, juicy chicken throughout.
- Onion – Yellow or white onions work great, diced up nice and small.
- Carrots – Peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Celery – Chopped finely to blend seamlessly into the soup.
- Garlic – Minced fresh garlic adds an essential savory note.
- Gluten Free Noodles – Look for a high-quality brand that holds its shape and texture well.
- Herbs – Fresh parsley, thyme, and bay leaves lend aromatic depth.
- Salt and Pepper – Season to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.
Step-by-Step Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup
This gluten free chicken noodle soup recipe is easy to make, with just a handful of straightforward steps. It does require a bit of time to simmer the broth, but the end result is so worth it. You’ll need a large stockpot or Dutch oven, plus a few essential kitchen tools. The total hands-on time is about 30 minutes, with an additional 2-3 hours of simmering.
1- Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot and cover with 8 cups of cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Let the chicken cook for 1-2 hours, skimming any foam or fat that rises to the surface.
2- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the simmering broth. Let this mixture continue to cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the vegetables are very tender.
3- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, use your hands to remove all the meat from the bones. Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4- Add the shredded chicken back to the pot, along with the gluten free noodles. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the noodles are cooked through.
5- Stir in the fresh parsley, thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6- Ladle the hot gluten free chicken noodle soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to great gluten free chicken noodle soup is in the broth – the longer you simmer it, the more flavorful it will be. I like to let mine go for at least 2-3 hours to really extract that rich, savory essence from the chicken bones.
Be sure to use high-quality gluten free noodles that can hold up well in the hot broth without getting too soft or mushy. Brands like Tinkyada and Jovial are my go-to’s.
And don’t be afraid to season generously with salt and pepper. Tasting and adjusting the seasoning as you go is crucial for balancing the flavors.
Serving and Storing Your Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup
Perfect Pairings for Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup
This classic gluten free chicken noodle soup is a crowd-pleasing dish that pairs beautifully with all sorts of sides and accompaniments. I love serving it with a fresh green salad, crusty gluten free bread, or even a simple cheese and cracker plate. It also makes a lovely starter course before a heartier main dish.
For beverages, I’d recommend a crisp white wine, a light beer, or even a warm mug of herbal tea. The soup’s comforting flavors really shine when complemented by refreshing drinks.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover gluten free chicken noodle soup keeps very well in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
You can also make the soup in advance and freeze it without the noodles. Then when you’re ready to serve, simply thaw it out, reheat, and add the gluten free noodles. This is a great way to meal prep and have a comforting, homemade soup on hand whenever the craving strikes.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup
Creative Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
While the classic version is always a winner, you can easily switch up the flavors of this gluten free chicken noodle soup to suit your tastes. Try adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness, or subbing in wild rice or quinoa instead of noodles.
You can also play with the herbs and spices, swapping the thyme for rosemary or adding a pinch of turmeric or paprika. And for a zestier kick, stir in a bit of lemon juice or crushed red pepper flakes.
Making Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this gluten free chicken noodle soup suitable for other dietary needs, it’s easy to make a few simple swaps. For a low-carb version, skip the noodles and add extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, or kale. You can also use a grain-free pasta alternative like chickpea or almond flour noodles.
To make it vegan or vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use a plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or beans. Swap the chicken broth for a rich, savory veggie broth, and you’ve got a hearty, meat-free soup that’s just as comforting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
A: Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just fine. You may need to adjust the simmering time down a bit since they cook faster than a whole bird.
Q: How can I make this soup extra thick and creamy?
A: For a thicker, more velvety texture, you can blend a cup or two of the cooked vegetables and broth before adding the chicken and noodles back in.
Q: Can I make this soup in the slow cooker or Instant Pot?
A: Yes, both methods work great! For the slow cooker, just add all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours. In the Instant Pot, use the soup or broth setting and cook for 30-45 minutes.
Q: How do I know when the gluten free noodles are cooked through?
A: Check the package instructions, but generally the noodles will be al dente and have a slight bite to them when they’re done. Taste a few to make sure they’re not overcooked.
Q: Can I freeze leftover gluten free chicken noodle soup?
A: Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Just be sure to store it in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to thin it out a bit.
Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6
Description
Indulge in a warm, comforting bowl of homemade Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup. This classic dish is made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 cups gluten-free chicken broth
– 2 cups gluten-free egg noodles
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. 1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over high heat.
2. 2. Add the chicken breasts and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
3. 3. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred or dice it.
4. 4. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the gluten-free noodles, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
5. 5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the noodles and vegetables are tender.
6. 6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a heartier soup, you can add diced potatoes or a can of diced tomatoes. To make it even more comforting, top with crumbled gluten-free crackers or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a big, steaming bowl of homemade gluten free chicken noodle soup to warm you up and nourish the soul. With this recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a comforting batch anytime the craving strikes. The rich, flavorful broth, tender chicken, and perfectly al dente noodles make for a truly satisfying meal.
I hope you’ll give this gluten free chicken noodle soup a try and let me know what you think. Be sure to share your photos and tag me on social media – I’d love to see how your version turns out! Enjoy.
