Alton Brown Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a cozy bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when you’re talking about Alton Brown’s version!

His recipe balances hearty ingredients with simple techniques, ensuring you end up with a soup that will raise plenty of eyebrows.

You’ll simmer vegetables like onions and celery together with a flavorful stock to create a rich base.

Adding homemade or quality store-bought chicken stock is key – it makes all the difference in the depth of flavor.

What’s great is this soup can be made in about an hour, making it ideal when you need something wholesome without spending all day in the kitchen.

How to Make Alton Brown Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients

• 1 whole Chicken (4-5 lbs.)
• 2 medium Onions (peeled and quartered)
• 4 Carrots (peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 4 ribs Celery (cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 3 cloves Garlic (crushed)
• 8 cups Chicken Stock
• 1 lb Egg Noodles
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp Parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.

Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.

Cook until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2:

Add the whole chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken stock.

Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.

Cover and let simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 3:

Remove the chicken from the pot.

Shred the meat using two forks and discard the bones and skin.

Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 4:

Add the egg noodles to the pot and stir well.

Simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until noodles are tender.

Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5:

Stir in the chopped parsley just before serving.

Adjust the seasoning to your preference and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Chicken

Using a whole chicken helps to create a rich and flavorful broth, and it’s worth the effort.

If you’re short on time, you can use a rotisserie chicken, but add extra stock for better flavor.

Noodle Selection

Egg noodles are classic for this soup, but you can substitute your favorite pasta if you wish.

Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pastas cook at different rates.

Fresh Herbs

Fresh parsley adds a much-needed brightness to the soup right before serving.

You can also add some fresh dill or thyme to give a unique twist to the taste.

Consistency

If you like your soup thicker, reduce the simmering time, or remove a cup of broth and stir in a cornstarch slurry before adding it back to thicken.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.

Reheat over low heat to retain the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your hearty homemade soup!

What to Serve with Alton Brown Chicken Noodle Soup

Crusty Bread

A warm bowl of Alton Brown’s chicken noodle soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread.

You can bake your own at home or grab a fresh loaf from a local bakery.

Use it to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth!

Corn Fritters

Serve corn fritters alongside your chicken noodle soup for a unique twist.

These golden-brown treats offer a crisp contrast to the soup, with cheese and sweet corn bursting in every bite.

They’re also easy to make with around ten minutes of preparation time.

Classic Potato Salad

Potato salad adds a cold, creamy element to your meal, balancing the hot soup with its soft potatoes and flavorful dressing.

This traditional dish complements the comforting qualities of the soup well.

A perfect addition for those who enjoy diverse textures at the table.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For a healthy side that’s both flavorful and colorful, try roasted Brussels sprouts.

Their crispy, nutty taste offers a great contrast to the mellow flavors of the soup.

If you don’t usually include them in your meals, now’s a good time to start!

Savory Scones

If you’re looking for something a bit out of the box, savory scones can be an intriguing addition.

Opt for scones with herbs or cheese to bring an interesting flavor profile to your meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Noodle Options

You’re not limited to just egg noodles for this recipe!

Try using rice noodles or whole wheat pasta if you’re feeling adventurous.

Each adds its own unique texture to your soup.

Broth Choices

Experimenting with broth can yield fascinating results.

Consider swapping your chicken broth with a vegetable broth or even a beef broth for a different depth of flavor.

These small changes can make a big difference!

Vegetables to Try

Think beyond the traditional celery and carrots.

Adding veggies like kale or spinach provides a nutritious boost.

Mushrooms or zucchini are also great for an added layer of taste.

Spice It Up

If you want a bit of heat, throw in some chili flakes or even sliced jalapeños.

A hint of cayenne pepper can also offer just the right amount of kick.

Protein Alternatives

Sure, chicken is the classic choice, but you can always mix it up.

Consider using tofu for a vegetarian option.

Or, try turkey if you want to keep it meaty yet different.

How to Store Leftover Alton Brown Chicken Noodle Soup

You must be careful to store your leftover Alton Brown chicken noodle soup with care so it maintains its amazing taste!

Cooling

First, let the soup cool down before you store it.

Once it’s no longer hot, it’s ready to be packed away.

Containers

Use airtight containers to preserve the flavor and prevent any unwanted spills in the fridge.

This also helps to keep the fridge from smelling like soup!

Portioning

It’s a great idea to divide the soup into smaller portions.

This makes it easier to heat up individual servings next time you have a craving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Noodles Too Early

Don’t add the noodles right at the beginning!

You want them to be tender, not a mushy mess by the time you serve your soup.

Add them in the final minutes of cooking so they keep their texture.

Using Only White Meat

If you stick to just white meat, you’re missing out on richer flavors!

Dark meat, like thighs and legs, can add a deeper taste to your broth.

Try mixing both for a well-rounded flavor that’s hard to beat.

Boiling the Stock

Keep an eye on the heat!

Boiling your stock can lead to cloudy broth and tough meat.

A gentle simmer helps keep flavors clear and ingredients tender.