This Dairy-Free Chicken Noodle Soup is warm and cozy, perfect for chilly days! It features tender chicken, hearty noodles, and lots of veggies, all swimming in a tasty broth.
Honestly, it hits the spot whenever I need comfort food. It’s so easy to whip up, even on busy nights. I love slurping those noodles while enjoying every bowl! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds great richness to the soup. If you’re allergic or looking for alternatives, you can use avocado oil or even coconut oil for a subtle flavor twist.
Chicken Broth: Make sure it’s labeled dairy-free! Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter taste without the chicken flavor, or bone broth adds extra nutrients.
Shredded Chicken: I often use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken works well. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for protein.
Noodles: I prefer wide egg-free noodles, but you can use gluten-free pasta or spiralized veggies like zucchini or carrots for a healthier version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
How Do I Get the Perfect Flavor Balance in My Soup?
To achieve the best flavor, focus on building layers. Start by sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery until they soften — this is known as the “mirepoix” base and is crucial for a flavorful broth.
- Be generous with seasonings like thyme and rosemary; they add a comforting aroma.
- Don’t skip tasting before serving! Adjust the salt and pepper as needed to really enhance the flavors.
Also, add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a bright finish; it really lifts the flavors in the soup!
Dairy-Free Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (ensure dairy-free)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled chicken breast)
- 2 cups wide egg-free noodles or any favorite dairy-free noodles
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes for cooking time. In total, set aside about 35 minutes to whip up this delicious and comforting soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes until they begin to soften. This creates a flavorful base for your soup!
2. Add Aromatics:
Once your vegetables are softened, add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute, stirring until the garlic is aromatic. This step is crucial as it adds an incredible depth of flavor to your soup.
3. Add Broth and Spices:
Now, pour in the chicken broth. Add the thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Mix in Chicken and Noodles:
As soon as the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the shredded chicken and the noodles to the pot. Cook the soup uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Keep an eye on the noodles as cooking times can vary based on the type you used!
5. Final Touches:
Once the noodles are cooked, remove the bay leaves from the pot. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper to your preference.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Now, enjoy your delicious, comforting, dairy-free chicken noodle soup!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Just shred the chicken meat off the bones and add it to the soup. It’s flavorful and helps cut down on prep time!
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or homemade broth for a lighter version. Just ensure it’s dairy-free, and adjust the seasoning as vegetable broth can be milder in flavor.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The soup can be made up to two days in advance. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerate. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra broth or water if it thickens too much.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and it can last up to 3 months. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
