This Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup is warm, zesty, and packed with flavor! Tender chicken, comfy noodles, and a kick of heat make it perfect for chilly days.
When I’m feeling under the weather, this soup always lifts my spirits. I love to top it with fresh herbs for a punch—plus, it’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is the best choice for rich flavor, but store-bought works well too. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter version, or add miso paste for depth.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient and adds great flavor. If you don’t have it, boiled chicken works too—just season it well. For a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or tofu instead.
Noodles: Egg noodles or ramen bring a comforting texture. If you want gluten-free, try rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a fresh twist!
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika are key for depth; don’t skip them! If you want a different profile, you can substitute with curry powder or chili powder.
How Do You Perfectly Sauté Vegetables for Soup?
Sautéing vegetables is essential to build flavor. Here’s how you do it right:
- Start with medium heat and add olive oil to your pot, letting it heat up.
- Add onions first, as they take longer to soften. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent.
- Next, add celery and carrots. Cook them together for another 5-7 minutes until they soften a bit.
- Lastly, add garlic and spices. Cook them for about a minute, so they release their aroma but don’t burn.
This technique ensures a flavorful base for your soup. Happy cooking! 😊
How to Make Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 4 ounces dried egg noodles or ramen noodles
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: additional crushed red pepper flakes or chili oil for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-30 minutes to cook, making it ready in about 45 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal that warms you up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Sauté for around 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. This helps develop a nice flavor base for your soup.
2. Adding the Flavor:
Now, add the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir it all around and cook for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant—this makes your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Mixing in the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. It should start bubbling slightly, which means we’re on the right track!
4. Noodles and Chicken Time:
Add the shredded chicken and noodles to the pot. Cook according to the noodle package instructions, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to make sure everything is combined well!
5. Seasoning the Soup:
Once the noodles are cooked, taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. This is where you can adjust the seasoning to your liking!
6. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the lemon juice. This adds a lovely brightness to your soup that really makes the flavors pop!
7. Serving It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. If you like it spicy, sprinkle a bit more crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle some chili oil on top!
8. Enjoying Your Creation:
Serve the soup hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing! Enjoy your tasty, spicy chicken noodle soup that’s sure to warm both your heart and your belly. 😊
Can I Use Different Noodles for This Soup?
Absolutely! While egg noodles or ramen work well, you can substitute with rice noodles, zoodles (zucchini noodles), or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on your noodle choice.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies for more substance!
Can I Prep This Soup in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare and cook the soup ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove, and add a little extra broth or water if needed to freshen it up.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.