📖 Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by poaching the chicken breasts. Place them in a large pot and cover with about 8 cups of water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C).
2. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it using two forks. Set aside. Pro Tip: Don't throw away the water you cooked the chicken in! That's your broth. It's got all the good stuff from the chicken and will make your soup extra delicious.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot (or a new one if you prefer), melt 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. I love the smell of these veggies cooking – it means something delicious is on its way!
4. Add the Broth: Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth (either the reserved broth from cooking the chicken or store-bought). Bring to a simmer. At this point, if you used store-bought broth, feel free to add a bouillon cube or some chicken base to deepen the flavor. Just sayin'.
5. Cook the Noodles: Add 8 ounces of egg noodles to the simmering broth. Cook according to package directions, usually about 7-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Watch them carefully – nobody likes mushy noodles!
6. Combine and Season: Add the shredded chicken back to the pot. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper, then adjust as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away! Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed.
7. Simmer and Serve: Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for that comforting, well-rounded taste. Before serving, stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for added freshness. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy every single spoonful, you deserve it! Add a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese for an even more comforting meal!