Spring Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Spring Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup egg noodles; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen

I love making this Spring Chicken Noodle Soup when the weather starts warming up. The freshness of the vegetables paired with tender chicken and hearty noodles makes it a delightful dish to enjoy. I find that the bright flavors of herbs like dill and parsley really shine through, giving it a vibrant taste that lifts my spirits. Making this soup is an easy way to bring the taste of spring into my kitchen, and it’s a comforting meal that the whole family enjoys. Just the perfect combination of flavors and textures!

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:49:36.215Z

When I first tried making Spring Chicken Noodle Soup, I was amazed at how effortlessly the flavors melded together. I experimented with different herbs and found that adding fresh dill really brought the dish to life, making each spoonful refreshing and fragrant. The noodles soak up the savory broth, creating a comforting experience.

Over the years, I’ve realized that using rotisserie chicken saves time and packs an incredible flavor punch. I also like to add a splash of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the dish even more. It’s quickly become a family favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and fresh flavors that celebrate spring
Hearty noodles that soak up the delicious broth
Simple ingredients that come together wonderfully

Unlocking the Flavors of Spring

The combination of fresh dill and parsley in this Spring Chicken Noodle Soup creates a vibrant flavor profile that truly reflects the season. Dill lends a subtle sweetness and a hint of anise, while parsley provides fresh earthiness. When preparing the soup, add these herbs toward the end to preserve their bright colors and aromatic qualities. I recommend using freshly chopped herbs rather than dried to achieve the best flavor impact and enhance the dish's overall freshness.

Incorporating lemon juice not only brightens the flavors but also adds a layer of acidity that balances the savory elements. Be sure to use fresh lemon for the best taste; the zest can also be thrown in to amplify the citrusy notes. As the soup simmers, the zest can help infuse its refreshing aroma, adding depth to each bowl. This simple addition can elevate your soup from standard to extraordinary!

Cooking Techniques That Shine

Sautéing the vegetables at the beginning is crucial for building the soup's foundational flavor. Cook them until they are slightly softened, which should take about 5 minutes. If they start to brown around the edges, that's a sign that they are releasing their natural sugars, contributing to a richer flavor in the final dish. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent any burning and ensure even cooking.

When cooking the egg noodles, keep an eye on their texture; you want them to be al dente, or firm to the bite, as they will continue to absorb liquid from the broth after cooking. To prevent overcooking, check them after 8 minutes and give them a taste. If you prefer, whole wheat or gluten-free noodles can work well as substitutes, just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful soup:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup egg noodles
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you’re set to make a healthy and comforting soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add Chicken and Broth

Stir in the shredded chicken and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles and let them cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente.

Season the Soup

Stir in the chopped dill, parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve Warm

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, garnishing with extra herbs if desired.

Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of soup!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth and customizing the vegetables to your liking, such as adding peas or spinach.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Spring Chicken Noodle Soup can easily be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy days. Prepare the soup without noodles and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and add fresh noodles, which will only take about 8 to 10 minutes to cook. This method prevents the noodles from becoming mushy during storage.

If you plan to freeze the soup, I recommend doing so before adding the noodles, as they do not freeze well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove, adding fresh egg noodles as needed.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Spring Chicken Noodle Soup experience, consider serving it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. The crunch of a baguette or the zesty notes of a salad can provide a delightful contrast to the warm, soothing soup. A light vinaigrette in the salad can complement the soup's flavors without overshadowing them, making for a balanced meal.

For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of pesto on top of each bowl before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also layers in additional flavors that harmonize beautifully with the herbs and chicken. Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness—they make the dish not just tasty but also appealing to the eye!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully and adds a unique flavor to the soup.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it ahead of time and reheat it on the stove. Just be aware that the noodles may soak up some broth as it sits.

→ Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta.

→ What can I do with leftover soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.