This spicy chicken noodle soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tender chicken, curly noodles, and a kick of heat, it’s perfect for cozy nights.
I love how the spices just dance in the broth. It warms me right up! Plus, it’s easy to whip up—just throw everything in one pot, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great choice for sautéing due to its flavor and health benefits. You can replace it with any other cooking oil like avocado or canola if needed, or even melt some butter for a richer taste.
Onion: Yellow onions are perfect for this soup since they give a nice sweetness. If you don’t have yellow onions, you can use shallots or even green onions as substitutes.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is always best! If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger works, but use less. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, too. Adjust the amounts to your taste!
Chicken Broth: Homemade is fantastic, but store-bought works just as well. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter version, or add a bit of water with seasoning if you run out.
Noodles: Ramen is traditional, but any pasta will do. If avoiding wheat, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is super convenient. If you prefer to cook your own, poached chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly too! You can even use tofu for a vegetarian option.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is the Perfect Spicy Level?
Finding the right spice level can be tricky! Start with a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes, and taste as you cook. You can always add more for heat.
- Use 1 teaspoon of crushed pepper flakes to begin with.
- After adding chicken, let it simmer before tasting. You might find it’s just the right level!
- For those who want a ton of heat, the soy sauce and chili paste or Sriracha can be adjusted – add a little, stir, and taste again.
Remember, you can always serve extra chili sauce on the side for anyone who wants more heat!
What’s the Trick to Soft Boiled Eggs?
This optional topping elevates your soup! To get that lovely soft-boiled egg:
- Bring a small pot of water to a boil.
- Gently add the eggs and cook for 6–7 minutes for a slightly runny yolk.
- Remove and place in an ice water bath to stop cooking.
- Once cool, peel and slice in half.
They add a creamy texture that complements your spicy soup beautifully!
Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as shiitake or cremini)
Spices and Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
Broth and Chicken:
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached chicken breast)
Noodles and Extras:
- 6 oz fresh or dried noodles (ramen, egg noodles, or linguine)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste or Sriracha (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- 2 soft boiled eggs, halved (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious bowl of spicy chicken noodle soup ready in about 45 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, which should take about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the Veggies and Spices:
Next, stir in the sliced carrots and mushrooms, along with the crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 3–4 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften a bit and release their flavors.
3. Build the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it all to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps deepen the flavors.
4. Add Chicken and Seasoning:
After simmering, add the shredded chicken, soy sauce, and chili paste or Sriracha if you’re looking for extra spice. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes. The soup is coming together nicely!
5. Cook the Noodles:
While the soup is simmering, cook the noodles separately according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once done, drain and set aside for now.
6. Combine and Finish:
Add the cooked noodles to the soup, gently stirring to combine the flavors. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the noodles to soak up some of that delicious broth. Now it’s time to taste and season it with salt and extra chili flakes if needed.
7. Serve it Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish generously with chopped parsley or cilantro. For an extra touch, you can add a half of a soft boiled egg on top of each bowl. Don’t forget those lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh squeeze of citrus!
Now, sit back and enjoy your bowl of spicy, satisfying chicken noodle soup, brimming with flavor and the perfect amount of heat!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While ramen or egg noodles work great, you can use any type of noodle you prefer, including linguine or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option. Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the soup.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes! Start with a smaller amount of crushed red pepper flakes and taste as you go. You can add more if you want it spicier. The chili paste or Sriracha is also optional for an extra kick!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may soak up some of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore the soup’s consistency.
Is It Possible to Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and leave out the chicken. You can add tofu or extra vegetables for protein and bulk!
