This Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, flavorful ginger, and garlic, it’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
I love how the noodles soak up all that tasty broth. One sip, and you’ll forget your troubles! 😄 It’s super easy to make, just throw everything in, and let it simmer. Enjoy a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor for sautéing. If you’re out, feel free to use vegetable oil or sesame oil for a slightly different taste.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger make a huge difference in flavor. If you only have dried versions, use about 1/4 teaspoon of each, but I recommend sticking with fresh if possible!
Chicken: I usually use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness. You can also substitute with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or use tofu for a vegetarian version!
Noodles: Ramen noodles are great, but feel free to switch it up with rice noodles or even whole grain pasta for a healthy twist. Check the cooking time as different noodles can vary!
Bok Choy: Baby bok choy adds crunch and nutrition. If you can’t find it, spinach is an excellent substitute that wilts nicely in the soup.
Why Do I Need to Sauté Before Adding Broth?
Sautéing the garlic, ginger, and vegetables before adding broth is crucial. This step develops deep flavors and aromas. When sautéed, the garlic and ginger release essential oils that enhance the overall taste of the soup.
- Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring to prevent burning.
- Then, mix in the onion, carrots, and celery. Sautéing these veggies brings out their natural sweetness!
These simple steps set the stage for a delicious broth that brings warmth and comfort in every bowl. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 oz noodles (such as ramen, egg noodles, or thin spaghetti)
- 2 cups baby bok choy, chopped (or spinach)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: sliced fresh chili or extra green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prep, and about 30 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying your comforting bowl of Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup in about 40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant, but be careful not to let them brown. This step brings the yummy flavors out!
2. Cook the Veggies:
Next, toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. You’ll love the aromatic smell filling your kitchen!
3. Add the Broth and Chicken:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the chicken breasts or thighs whole. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when you can easily shred it.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the soup pot. This will make the soup hearty and filling!
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the noodles to the pot and cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 4-6 minutes, or until they’re tender and just right.
6. Add the Greens:
Now, stir in the chopped bok choy or spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s wilted. This adds a lovely freshness to your soup.
7. Season to Perfection:
Season your soup with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Taste as you go, so you can adjust it just how you like!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the delicious soup into bowls. Top with sliced green onions and, if you like a little kick, add fresh chili slices or more red pepper flakes. Enjoy!
9. Enjoy a Warm Bowl:
Serve hot and delight in the warmth and flavors of your homemade Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup! Perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a cozy meal.
This recipe makes about 4 hearty servings, ideal for sharing or for prepping leftovers for busy days. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While ramen or egg noodles are popular choices, you can also use rice noodles or whole grain pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time and adjust as needed!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You might find that the noodles soak up the broth, so you can add a little extra chicken broth when reheating to loosen it up!
What Can I Substitute for Bok Choy?
If you can’t find bok choy, spinach is a great substitute! It wilts nicely into the soup and adds a similar fresh flavor. You could also use kale or Swiss chard if you prefer!
