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Lighter 30-Minute Chicken Noodle Soup (Easy & Healthy)

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A quick and healthy chicken noodle soup that comes together in just 30 minutes, featuring a light yet flavorful broth, tender chicken, and fresh spinach for a nourishing meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into half-moons
  • 3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 6 ounces wide egg noodles
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, and turmeric (if using). Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and reduce the heat to medium-high so it maintains a gentle boil.
  4. Cook the noodles according to package directions, typically 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking.
  5. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and fresh baby spinach. The spinach will wilt almost immediately in the hot broth — about 1 minute.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper.
  7. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with a wedge of lemon on the side for extra brightness.

Notes

For the best texture, avoid overcooking the noodles. If planning leftovers, cook noodles separately and add to individual bowls before pouring hot broth over to prevent mushiness. Use low-sodium broth for better salt control. Add spinach off the heat to preserve color and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken noodle soup, healthy soup, 30-minute meal, easy dinner, comfort food, light soup

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/lighter-30-minute-chicken-noodle-soup-easy-and-healthy/