Satisfying Chicken Noodle Snow Day Special

Satisfying Chicken Noodle Snow Day Special

There's something incredibly comforting about curling up with a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup on a cold, snowy day. This delightful dish not only warms your body but also your soul, with its rich flavors and soothing aroma. Whether it's a sudden snowstorm or a scheduled snow day, this Chicken Noodle Snow Day Special is a perfect answer to cold weather woes.

Ingredients

• Chicken:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Vegetables:
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Broth & Seasoning:
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Noodles:
  • 8 oz egg noodles
• Herbs:
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken breast and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, then shred it with two forks.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a splash of olive oil. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute.

3. Create the Soup Base: Add the chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

4. 

   Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

5. Combine and Serve: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and heat through. Stir in the fresh parsley before serving. Remove the bay leaf before enjoying your soup.

Nutritious Value and Pairings

This Chicken Noodle Snow Day Special is not just a comfort food classic, but it's also packed with nutritious benefits. The chicken provides a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and energy. Loaded with vegetables, it offers a good dose of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A from the carrots and vitamin C from the celery and parsley. The broth keeps you hydrated and can help maintain healthy digestion.

For the perfect meal pairing, consider serving this soup with a light garden salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, which complements the hearty flavors of the soup without overwhelming it. A crusty whole-grain bread is ideal for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth. As for beverages, a glass of unsweetened iced tea or a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the soup.

Stay warm and satisfied with this delightful Chicken Noodle Snow Day Special, perfect for making the most of a cozy day indoors.