This Golden Turmeric Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal, perfect for a healthy chicken noodle soup recipes rotation. You’ll love its vibrant flavor and warming spices, making it a delicious way to nourish your body.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs. A cooked rotisserie chicken works well for speed.
- Noodles: Egg noodles are classic, but whole wheat pasta or gluten-free noodles are great alternatives.
- Turmeric: Fresh grated turmeric offers the best flavor and benefits, but ground turmeric is a convenient substitute.
- Ginger & Garlic: Fresh is always best for maximum flavor in this healthy chicken noodle soup.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onion are standard. Add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth, low sodium
- 4 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh turmeric, grated (or 2 teaspoons ground turmeric)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, knife, grater.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Chicken and Spices
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Stir in the grated ginger, minced garlic, and grated turmeric. Cook for another 2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through. This creates a rich base for your healthy chicken noodle soup.
4. Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions, usually 5-7 minutes, until tender. Ensure they are fully submerged.
5. Finish and Serve
Remove the soup from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to your taste. Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped parsley before serving your delicious, healthy chicken noodle soup.
Variation Ideas
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Substitute sweet potato for carrots for a different flavor profile.
- Garnish with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra creaminess.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Golden Turmeric Chicken Noodle Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through. You might need to add a splash of broth if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you use ground turmeric instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use ground turmeric. Use 2 teaspoons of ground turmeric for every 2 tablespoons of fresh grated turmeric.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic healthy chicken noodle soup recipe for meal prepping. The flavors often deepen overnight.
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can significantly cut down on your preparation time.
Can you make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta or rice noodles.
How can you make this soup vegetarian?
Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add chickpeas or white beans for protein, making it a hearty vegetarian soup.
What other vegetables can you add?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor in your healthy chicken noodle soup.