Chicken Noodle Soup with Basil and Rosemary

Chicken Noodle Soup with Basil and Rosemary Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chicken Noodle Soup with Basil and Rosemary

Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a cozy night in or when you're feeling under the weather. This recipe adds a twist with the addition of basil and rosemary, giving the soup a fragrant and herbaceous flavor.

History

Chicken noodle soup has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Asia, where noodles and chicken were readily available ingredients. The addition of herbs like basil and rosemary likely came later as people began experimenting with different flavor combinations.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) of chicken pieces
6 cups of hot water, divided
2 large stalks of celery, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
0.5 tsp of dried basil
0.25 tsp of rosemary
0.25 tsp of pepper
1 tsp of salt (optional)
0.5 cup of thin egg noodles

How to prepare

In a 5 qt (4.73 liter) casserole, combine the chicken, 4 cups of hot water, celery, carrots, basil, rosemary, pepper, and salt.
Microwave on high for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken easily falls from the bone, stirring twice during cooking.
Remove the chicken from the bones, discard the bones and skin, and dice the meat. Return the diced meat to the casserole.
Add 2 cups of hot water and noodles. Cover the casserole.
Microwave on high for 8-10 minutes, or until the water boils. Then, microwave on high for 7-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Per serving: 111 calories, 274 mg sodium, 6 mg cholesterol.

Variations

Use different herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Add a splash of lemon juice for a bright and citrusy kick.
Use rice or quinoa instead of noodles for a gluten-free option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use bone-in chicken pieces for the most flavorful broth.

- Feel free to add other vegetables like onions, garlic, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences, adding more or less herbs and spices as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken noodle soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses the microwave for a quick and easy cooking method. You can also make this soup on the stovetop or in a slow cooker for a longer cooking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish this chicken noodle soup with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer like a pilsner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this chicken noodle soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this chicken noodle soup contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this chicken noodle soup contains approximately 3 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this chicken noodle soup contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the noodles. It may also contain allergens from the chicken, depending on individual sensitivities.

Summary

This chicken noodle soup is a nutritious and comforting meal that is rich in protein and vitamins. It is a great option for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.

Summary

This Chicken Noodle Soup with Basil and Rosemary is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a recipe that you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a cold winter day, and my friend Martha invited me over for lunch. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, a delicious aroma filled the air. Martha was busy chopping vegetables and stirring a pot of bubbling broth on the stove.

"What are you making?" I asked, my stomach rumbling at the delicious smell.

"Chicken noodle soup with basil and rosemary," Martha replied with a smile. "It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I eagerly nodded, excited to learn the secrets behind this comforting dish. Martha handed me a knife and a cutting board, and we worked side by side, chopping carrots, celery, and onions. She explained that the key to a flavorful broth was to sauté the vegetables until they were soft and fragrant before adding the chicken.

As the soup simmered on the stove, Martha pulled out a bundle of fresh herbs – basil and rosemary. She carefully stripped the leaves from the stems and added them to the pot. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, a mix of savory herbs and rich chicken broth.

While the soup cooked, Martha shared the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. Each generation had added their own twist to the dish, making it their own. Martha had added the basil and rosemary to give the soup a fresh, herby flavor that was unique to her family.

After a few hours of simmering, the soup was ready. We ladled it into bowls and garnished it with freshly chopped parsley. The first spoonful was pure comfort – tender chunks of chicken, hearty noodles, and a fragrant broth that warmed me to my core.

As I savored each bite, I knew that I had to make this soup for my own family. I asked Martha for the recipe, and she gladly shared it with me. Over the years, I have made this soup countless times, each batch a little different as I added my own touch to the recipe.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it down to the next generation. It has become a staple in our household, especially during the long winter months when nothing else will do but a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup with basil and rosemary.

The memories of that day in Martha's kitchen are still vivid in my mind. The laughter, the warmth, and the delicious aroma of simmering soup. It was a moment of connection and tradition, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

Now, as I stir a pot of chicken noodle soup on my own stove, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that has been passed down through the generations. It is a reminder of the love and care that went into each batch, a taste of history and tradition that will always hold a special place in my heart. And as I take my first spoonful, I am transported back to that day in Martha's kitchen, surrounded by good friends and even better food.