2024.10.18 01:15

How to Make Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch

If you’re craving a comforting yet flavorful meal, spicy chicken noodle soup is the perfect choice. This soup is not only warming and delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients, making it an ideal dish to enjoy any time of year. Best of all, it’s easy to make from scratch, ensuring you have full control over the ingredients and spice level. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating a homemade spicy chicken noodle soup that’s loaded with fresh herbs, tender chicken, and flavorful broth.

Why Make Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch?

1. Control the Ingredients

When you make soup from scratch, you get to choose every ingredient. This means no preservatives, less sodium, and the freedom to adjust the flavors according to your personal preferences.

2. Healthier Option

Spicy chicken noodle soup made at home can be far healthier than store-bought options, which are often loaded with sodium and additives. By using fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and whole grains, you create a balanced and nutritious meal.

3. Perfect Comfort Food

The combination of tender chicken, soothing broth, and the warming heat of chili makes this soup the perfect comfort food, whether you’re battling a cold or just looking for a cozy dinner.

Essential Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to create your spicy chicken noodle soup from scratch:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work well. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts provide a leaner option.

Noodles: Egg noodles are classic, but feel free to use rice noodles, soba, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option.

Chicken Broth: A homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth serves as the base for your soup.

Vegetables: Carrots, celery, onions, and garlic provide the base of flavor. You can also add leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients.

Spices: Chili flakes, fresh chilies, or sriracha will add the desired level of heat.

Fresh Herbs: Cilantro, parsley, and basil add brightness and enhance the overall flavor.

Aromatics: Garlic and ginger create depth in the broth, bringing warmth and flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe: Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup from Scratch

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon ginger, grated

2 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, chopped

1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (or fresh chilies for more heat)

1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for extra umami)

6 oz egg noodles (or noodles of your choice)

1 cup spinach or kale (optional)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Lime wedges, for serving

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked through and lightly browned.

Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger for about 3 minutes until fragrant.

Add the carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.

Add the shredded chicken back into the pot, along with the chili flakes (adjust based on your spice tolerance).

Stir in the soy sauce (if using), and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

While the soup simmers, cook your noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions.

Drain and set the noodles aside.

Step 5: Add Greens and Herbs

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the spinach or kale to the soup, allowing the greens to wilt.

Stir in the fresh herbs (cilantro and basil), reserving some for garnish.

Step 6: Serve the Soup

Divide the cooked noodles into bowls, then ladle the spicy chicken soup over the top.

Serve with lime wedges on the side for a tangy finish, and garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added kick.

Tips for Perfecting Your Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of chili flakes or omit the fresh chilies. For more heat, add a splash of hot sauce or extra chilies.

Enhance the Flavor: Adding a dash of soy sauce or fish sauce to the broth can deepen the umami flavor, giving the soup a richer taste.

Cooking the Noodles Separately: This prevents the noodles from becoming too soft or absorbing too much broth. Always cook them separately and add them just before serving.

Make It Low-Carb: Swap traditional noodles for shirataki noodles or zoodles to make a keto-friendly version.

Variations of Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

Thai-Inspired Spicy Chicken Soup: Add coconut milk, lemongrass, and lime leaves for a Thai twist. Garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh mint.

Mexican Spicy Chicken Soup: Incorporate corn, black beans, and jalapeños, and top with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Why Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup is Great for Your Health

Boosts Immunity: The combination of garlic, ginger, and chili peppers is known to help boost the immune system, making this soup a perfect remedy during cold and flu season.

Rich in Protein: The chicken provides a hearty source of protein, which helps with muscle recovery and keeps you full for longer.

Packed with Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and greens offer a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to overall health.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Chili peppers and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote digestive health.

Storing and Reheating Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

Storing:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles separate from the soup to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

Reheating:

Reheat the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, and add the noodles just before serving. You may need to add a little extra broth, as the soup thickens when stored.

Freezing:

If you plan to freeze the soup, omit the noodles and greens, as they don’t freeze well. Store the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat and add freshly cooked noodles and greens.

Conclusion

Making spicy chicken noodle soup from scratch is simple, rewarding, and incredibly delicious. The balance of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, spicy broth, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting and nourishing meal that you can enjoy any time. Plus, with the ability to customize the ingredients and spice level, this soup is perfect for any palate.

Business Information

Business Name: Happy Sashimi

Address: 2714 Pinole Valley Road, Pinole, CA 94564

Phone: (510) 758-8881

E-mail: info@eathappysashimi.com

Owner: Chris Wong

Hastag: #happysashimi #Sashimi #JapaneseCuisine

Source: Happy Sashimi

Website: www.eathappysashimi.com

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