This warm and comforting Chinese Chicken Noodle Soup is packed with tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft noodles. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Whenever I make it, I can’t help but smile. The smell fills my kitchen, and I never have leftovers! It’s perfect when I need a little cozy cheer. 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein. If you’re looking for something different, shredded rotisserie chicken works great, too! It saves time and adds a nice flavor.
Chicken Broth: Low sodium chicken broth is best for controlling the saltiness. You could use vegetable broth if you want a lighter soup, or homemade broth for a richer taste.
Bok Choy: This leafy green adds freshness and nutrition. If you can’t find bok choy, try spinach or kale instead. Both will bring a nice color and texture.
Noodles: Chinese egg noodles or ramen are perfect choices. In a pinch, spaghetti can work, but it won’t have the same texture. Cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked but Tender?
The key to juicy chicken in your soup is cooking it just until it’s no longer pink. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Heat the oil on medium and sauté the garlic, ginger, and onion until fragrant.
- Add chicken slices and stir regularly. Cook for about 3-5 minutes.
- Look for the chicken to lose its pink color and no longer be shiny before adding the broth.
Tip: Let the chicken rest a bit after cooking – it helps keep it juicy when you add it to the soup!
How to Make Chinese Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili oil (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Noodles:
- 6 ounces fresh or dried Chinese egg noodles or ramen noodles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup will take about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes until you can enjoy a warm bowl of homemade Chinese Chicken Noodle Soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing Aromatics:
Start by heating the sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced onion. Sauté these ingredients for about 3-4 minutes until they become fragrant, and the onions turn translucent. It’s the perfect way to begin your soup!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Next, add the sliced chicken breast to the pot. Cook it for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to be just no longer pink in the center. This gives you tender, juicy pieces of chicken for your soup!
3. Adding the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This will allow all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.
4. Cooking the Noodles:
While your soup is simmering, it’s time to cook the noodles. Check the package instructions for cooking time—fresh noodles will usually take only a couple of minutes, while dried noodles might take a bit longer. Drain them and set aside when done!
5. Adding Bok Choy:
After the soup has simmered for 10 minutes, add the chopped bok choy directly into the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are tender yet still vibrant. This keeps your soup colorful and nutritious!
6. Adjusting the Seasoning:
Give the broth a taste and feel free to adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and more soy sauce as needed. If you like some heat, this is the moment to sprinkle in the chili flakes or drizzle some chili oil!
7. Serving the Soup:
Now you’re ready to serve! Place a portion of the cooked noodles in each bowl, and ladle the hot soup with chicken and vegetables over the noodles.
8. Garnishing:
Don’t forget the finishing touch! Sprinkle a generous amount of chopped green onions on top of your soup for a burst of flavor and color.
Enjoy your nourishing bowl of homemade Chinese Chicken Noodle Soup! It’s perfect for a cozy night in or whenever you need a little warmth. 🥢❤️
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While Chinese egg noodles or ramen are great choices, you can also use rice noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time based on the noodle type you choose!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, you can add more vegetables like carrots and mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop to preserve the noodles’ texture, as microwaving can make them soggy!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles. Noodles can become mushy when frozen. Store the broth and chicken mixture in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months, then cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to enjoy the soup again!
