Mary Berry Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful meal, Mary Berry’s chicken noodle soup recipe is definitely worth trying!

Known for her simple yet delicious dishes, Mary Berry has crafted a soup that combines tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and a hearty broth, making it the perfect remedy for any chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather. Not only is it easy to make, but the addition of noodles adds a satisfying texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try for a cozy, homemade meal!

Mary Berry Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup, the ingredients are designed to bring together the comforting warmth of a classic chicken soup with the satisfying texture of noodles. Here’s a comprehensive look at the key ingredients you’ll need:

1. Chicken: This is the heart of the soup. You can use either chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference for lean or richer meat. The chicken is typically cooked in the broth, allowing it to impart flavor to the soup while staying tender and juicy.

2. Noodles: The noodles add a satisfying element to the soup, soaking up the flavorful broth. You can use egg noodles, rice noodles, or even whole wheat noodles if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. Noodles are a key element in making the soup hearty and filling.

3. Vegetables: A variety of vegetables gives the soup depth and freshness. Common choices include:

   • Carrots: They add natural sweetness and a pleasant crunch when cut into thin slices or julienned.
   • Celery: Known for its subtle earthiness, celery balances the soup’s flavors and enhances its overall freshness.
   • Onions: These provide a savory base note, and once softened in the soup, they offer a mild sweetness.

4. Garlic: A few cloves of garlic are used to infuse the broth with their signature aromatic, savory flavor. Garlic plays an important role in elevating the overall taste of the soup.

5. Chicken Stock: This is the backbone of the soup, providing a rich and savory base. You can use store-bought or homemade chicken stock, but homemade is often preferred for its depth of flavor.

6. Herbs and Spices: A bouquet of herbs, such as thyme and bay leaves, is typically used to add fragrant notes. Salt and pepper help season the soup to taste, ensuring it’s balanced.

7. Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors and adds a zesty contrast to the richness of the soup.

8. Parsley or Chives: Fresh parsley or chives are often sprinkled on top as a garnish, adding a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor to the finished dish.

Equipment Needed

Creating a delicious bowl of Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup requires only a few basic kitchen tools that will help you prepare and cook the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: This will be your main cooking vessel. A large, heavy-bottomed pot is perfect for simmering the soup, as it helps distribute heat evenly and prevents the broth from burning or scorching.

2. Cutting Board and Knife: A sharp knife and sturdy cutting board will make the task of chopping vegetables and slicing chicken much easier. Precision in chopping ensures even cooking and a balanced texture throughout the soup.

3. Soup Ladle: A ladle is essential for serving the soup once it’s done. It allows you to scoop the soup into bowls without making a mess.

4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: These are important to ensure you’re adding the right amounts of ingredients, especially when seasoning with herbs and spices.

5. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Stirring Spoon: This is great for stirring the soup as it cooks, ensuring that everything is well-combined and the flavors meld together beautifully without damaging the pot’s surface.

6. Strainer or Skimmer (Optional): If you prefer a clearer broth, you can use a strainer or skimmer to remove impurities or any foam that forms while cooking the chicken and vegetables.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup

The process of making Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup is straightforward, yet the results are nothing short of comforting. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs into a large pot. Pour in enough chicken stock to fully submerge the chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and a couple of bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it starts to bubble gently, reduce the heat and allow the chicken to cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and tender. If you’re using thighs, the meat will be richer and more flavorful, while chicken breasts are leaner.

2. Cook the Vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, chop the onions, carrots, and celery. In a separate pan, heat a splash of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step builds the flavor base for the soup.

3. Add Garlic and Noodles: Once the vegetables are softened, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the vegetables and garlic to the pot with the chicken stock. Stir in the noodles, and allow everything to simmer together for another 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender and have absorbed some of the savory broth.

4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot once it’s fully cooked. Let it cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, ensuring the flavors meld together.

5. Season to Taste: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Add salt, pepper, or a pinch of additional herbs to enhance the flavor. If you want a more pronounced zing, add a squeeze of lemon juice to bring brightness to the dish.

6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or crackers on the side for extra comfort.

Expert Tips

1. For a Richer Broth: If you want a deeper, richer flavor, consider roasting the chicken before adding it to the pot. Roasting it with some olive oil, salt, and pepper will create a crispy skin and intensify the chicken’s flavor, which will be infused into the broth when you cook it.

2. Homemade Stock: If you have the time, making homemade chicken stock will take the soup to another level. It’s incredibly easy to do by simmering leftover chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs. Homemade stock offers a natural depth of flavor that store-bought versions simply can’t replicate.

3. Add More Vegetables: You can easily customize this soup by adding extra vegetables. Consider adding peas, leeks, or sweet potatoes for additional flavor and texture. Just be sure to cut them to a similar size so that they cook evenly.

4. Noodle Options: Experiment with different types of noodles. While egg noodles are traditional, rice noodles or even soba noodles can lend a unique flavor and texture to the soup. Be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodle you use.

5. Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days. The flavors continue to develop, and the soup can be easily reheated. However, if you plan to make it in advance, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy in the leftovers.

Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying, offering a perfect balance of flavors from the tender chicken, savory broth, and hearty noodles.

The fresh vegetables add brightness, while the lemon juice at the end provides a lovely zesty note that ties everything together. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or serving a crowd, this soup will always impress.

With these expert tips and a few adjustments, you can make this dish your own, tailoring it to your taste preferences. Enjoy a bowl of comfort and nourishment with every spoonful!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup

Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup is a heartwarming classic that effortlessly combines the comforting flavors of tender chicken, savory broth, and a medley of vegetables, all paired with chewy noodles. While the original recipe is fantastic as is, there are plenty of easy variations you can try to suit different preferences, dietary restrictions, or simply to add a personal twist to the dish.

1. Add A Spicy Kick

For those who love a bit of heat, you can transform the soup into a spicy delight by adding sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes to the broth. A spoonful of sriracha or a drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the flavor profile, making it a great option for those who enjoy spicy food without overpowering the delicate balance of the soup.

2. Vegetarian Option

If you’re aiming for a vegetarian or even vegan version of this soup, you can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. For extra depth, use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Additionally, swap the egg noodles for rice noodles, which are naturally gluten-free, and pack the soup with vibrant vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and peas. The flavors will be just as comforting, but with a completely different twist.

3. Creamy Variation

To make the soup creamier, add a bit of cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking. This variation provides a luscious, velvety texture that can make the soup feel more indulgent. For extra richness, a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche could be stirred in when serving, adding tang and creaminess to the soup’s overall flavor.

4. Asian-Inspired Twist

If you want to infuse the soup with Asian flavors, try adding a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce to deepen the umami taste. You can also toss in fresh ginger, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil for an aromatic lift.

For noodles, you could opt for udon or soba noodles instead of egg noodles. Toppings like chopped scallions, cilantro, or toasted sesame seeds can provide texture and brightness, rounding out the dish beautifully.

5. Adding Root Vegetables

To make the soup heartier and more rustic, you can add root vegetables such as parsnips, sweet potatoes, or turnips. These vegetables bring a natural sweetness and additional depth of flavor to the broth. Dice them small so they cook evenly with the chicken and noodles, offering a delicious contrast in texture and taste.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can enjoy the deliciousness of Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup even after the meal has ended. Here are some best practices to make sure your leftovers stay fresh and tasty:

1. Cool The Soup Quickly

To avoid bacteria growth, it’s important to cool the soup down before storing it. Let it sit at room temperature for no more than two hours.

To speed up the cooling process, you can transfer the soup into a shallow container. This helps the heat disperse faster and brings the temperature down more quickly, ensuring it’s safe to refrigerate.

2. Use Airtight Containers

Store the leftover soup in airtight containers to prevent air from entering and affecting the flavor and freshness. Clear glass containers work well because they allow you to see the soup and monitor how it’s holding up over time. Divide the soup into individual servings so that you can easily reheat only what you need, minimizing the number of times it needs to be reheated.

3. Keep Noodles Separate

Noodles tend to absorb liquid and become mushy when left in broth for too long. If possible, store the noodles separately from the soup.

This way, when you reheat the soup, the noodles remain in good texture. If the noodles are already mixed in, it’s best to consume the soup within 1-2 days for the best quality.

4. Label And Date Your Containers

To keep track of when you stored the leftovers, label your containers with the date of storage. Leftover chicken noodle soup typically lasts for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For long-term storage, consider freezing the soup (without noodles) for up to 2-3 months.

5. Reheat With Care

When reheating your soup, do so slowly over low heat to prevent the broth from becoming overly salty or reducing too much. If it’s a little too thick after being stored, simply add a small amount of water or broth to loosen it up and restore its original consistency. Stir frequently to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t burn at the bottom.

What Goes Well With Chicken Noodle Soup

While Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup is a meal in itself, adding some complementary sides can make the meal even more satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as part of a larger spread, here are some great options to pair with your soup:

1. Fresh Bread Or Rolls

A crusty loaf of sourdough or a soft dinner roll is the perfect companion to chicken noodle soup. The bread can be used to soak up the delicious broth or served alongside the soup for a hearty meal. You could also try garlic bread for an extra punch of flavor.

2. A Light Salad

Pair the soup with a refreshing green salad to add a contrast in texture and flavor. A simple arugula or spinach salad with lemon dressing, olive oil, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese will brighten up the meal. For extra crunch, add sliced cucumber, radishes, or carrots.

3. Roasted Vegetables

For a more filling side, roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes add an earthy flavor that complements the soup. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until golden. Their slight caramelization pairs beautifully with the savory chicken broth.

4. Cheese And Crackers

For a more casual pairing, consider serving the soup with a selection of cheeses and crackers. A mild cheese like cheddar or a tangy goat cheese works wonderfully alongside the flavors of the soup. Add some crunchy crackers on the side for texture and a delightful bite.

5. A Fruit Salad

To bring a touch of sweetness to the meal, consider a fruit salad made with fresh, seasonal fruits. A combination of citrus fruits, berries, and grapes can offer a refreshing and light contrast to the richness of the soup, balancing the savory flavors.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a bowl of comfort, nourishment, and warmth. Whether you follow the recipe as is or opt for some of the creative variations, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this classic.

The flexibility in ingredient substitutions makes it easy to adjust to personal tastes, dietary needs, or to simply experiment with different flavor profiles. Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can savor every last drop, and pairing the soup with complementary sides makes the meal even more enjoyable. Ultimately, this dish is a timeless favorite that brings people together, making it perfect for cozy nights or when you want something wholesome and satisfying.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup?

To make Mary Berry’s chicken noodle soup, you will need chicken breast or thighs, egg noodles, chicken stock, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, fresh parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add some fresh thyme for extra flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup?

Mary Berry’s chicken noodle soup takes about 45 minutes to an hour to prepare and cook. The time depends on how long you simmer the chicken and the noodles.

Can I Use Leftover Chicken For Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup?

Yes, you can use leftover chicken in Mary Berry’s chicken noodle soup. Just ensure that it is shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces, and add it to the soup during the final stages of cooking.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors develop. Just reheat before serving and be sure to add the noodles at the last minute to avoid them getting too soft.

What Kind Of Noodles Are Used In Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup?

The recipe calls for egg noodles, which are perfect for absorbing the flavors of the broth while remaining tender and hearty. You can use other types of noodles, such as rice noodles, but egg noodles are traditional.

Is Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup Suitable For Freezing?

Yes, Mary Berry’s chicken noodle soup can be frozen. However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles, as noodles may become soggy when reheated. Add fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve after thawing.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s chicken noodle soup gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles instead of regular egg noodles. Ensure that your chicken stock is also gluten-free or make your own to avoid any gluten-containing ingredients.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup Spicier?

If you want to add some spice to Mary Berry’s chicken noodle soup, you can incorporate chili flakes, fresh chopped chili, or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the level of spice to your taste.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup?

Mary Berry’s chicken noodle soup is best served hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You can pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Noodle Soup More Nutritious?

To make the soup more nutritious, you can add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas. You can also use whole wheat noodles for added fiber or add a bit of turmeric for its anti-inflammatory benefits.