chicken noodle soup ingredients

Chicken noodle soup may have been your mom’s go-to meal during flu season, but did you know its benefits extend beyond old wives tales? Experts have found that chicken noodle soup may ease cold symptoms!

Since colds are believed to be caused by viral infections in the upper respiratory tract, research has suggested the ingredients in the soup slow white blood cells from gathering in the lungs, thereby slowing the progression of irritating side effects, such as coughing, sneezing, and a stuffy, runny nose.

In addition to the nutrients from the vegetables and other ingredients, chicken soup also helps you stay hydrated – which is crucial when you’re feeling under the weather.

So, next time you come down with the flu, break out the chicken noodle soup!

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 sweet onion, finely chopped
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 serrano chile, seeded and minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 thyme sprigs
  • 2 cups chopped cooked chicken meat
  • 1 cup egg noodles
  • Roughly chopped parsley, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrot and celery until tender. Stir in garlic and serrano; continue to cook for another minute.
  2. Add tomato paste and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then add the chicken broth, bay leaf and thyme. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Add chicken and noodles. Continue to simmer until the chicken is heated through and the noodles are tender.
  4. Serve and enjoy! Garnish with parsley.
Health Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup

 

Editor's Note: This gallery was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .