This Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly days! With tender chicken, soft noodles, and a kick of spice, it’s sure to please your taste buds!
I love how the spices give it a little zing! It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl. Just grab a spoon and dig in—don’t forget the crackers for crunch! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice richness to the soup. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use vegetable oil or even sesame oil for a different flavor.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great if you have it. Store-bought works well too! For a lighter version, use low-sodium broth or vegetable broth.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a big time-saver! You can also use leftover chicken or even shredded turkey if you have it. For a vegetarian option, replace it with a plant-based protein like chickpeas.
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but you can use rice noodles, udon, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Red Chili Pepper: If you want less heat, use a bell pepper or omit it. For an extra kick, feel free to add more or use crushed red pepper flakes.
How Do You Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing is a simple technique that enhances the flavor of your soup. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start with a hot skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Add the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and chili pepper. Stir often for even cooking.
- Cook until the vegetables are soft, which usually takes 5-7 minutes. They should be slightly golden but not browned.
This step allows the veggies to release their flavors, creating a delicious base for your soup! Don’t rush it; give them time to soften and blend well.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Noodles for Soup?
Cooking noodles properly ensures they don’t get mushy in your soup. Here’s a quick guide:
- Check the package instructions for the correct cooking time.
- Cook them in a separate pot to avoid making the broth cloudy.
- Drain and rinse them to stop the cooking process, especially if they are fresh.
Once added to the soup, cook for just a couple of minutes to heat through. This keeps them al dente and enjoyable!
This Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal! Enjoy!
How to Make Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need!
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 red chili pepper, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 6 cups chicken broth
For the Chicken and Flavor:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 2 teaspoons chili flakes (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Noodles and Greens:
- 200 grams (about 7 oz) fresh or dried noodles (egg noodles or ramen-style)
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or coriander leaves
- Lemon wedges, to serve
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup requires about 30 minutes of your time. You have about 10 minutes for prep and another 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can easily fit into your weeknight meal plan!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, diced celery, and chopped red chili pepper. Sauté these ingredients together until the vegetables become soft, about 5-7 minutes. The lovely aroma will fill your kitchen!
2. Add Spices:
Next, sprinkle in the chili flakes and smoked paprika. Stir this mixture for about a minute, allowing the spices to bloom and become fragrant.
3. Create the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps all the flavors to blend beautifully.
4. Add Chicken and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to add the cooked shredded chicken, soy sauce, and ground black pepper into the broth. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes so the chicken gets heated through and the flavors develop even more.
5. Cook the Noodles:
If you’re using dried noodles, cook them according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Drain and set aside. If you’re using fresh noodles, don’t worry—you can add them directly to the soup in the next step!
6. Combine Noodles and Greens:
Add the cooked noodles and chopped spinach (or kale) to the soup pot. Cook for about 2 minutes, just until the greens wilt and the noodles are heated through. Your kitchen will look vibrant and colorful!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Now, take a moment to taste the soup. You can add salt or more chili flakes according to your preference—make it as spicy as you like!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or coriander leaves and an extra sprinkle of chili flakes for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over your soup before enjoying the burst of flavor!
Grab a spoon and dive into this hearty, warming spicy chicken noodle soup. Perfect for any day when you’re looking for something delicious and comforting!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor. Just shred the meat before adding it to the soup!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works just as well and keeps the soup hearty. You can also use water with a bit of added seasoning for flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Soup Less Spicy?
Yes! Simply reduce or omit the red chili pepper and chili flakes. You can always serve hot sauce on the side for those who like a bit of heat!