Picture a cold, busy evening when you and your family yearn for something warm, soothing, and delicious. With this make-ahead Chicken Noodle Soup in your freezer, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in minutes.
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a nutritious and hearty dinner can be challenging, especially for parents and individuals juggling various responsibilities. That’s where freezer meals come to the rescue, and our Chicken Noodle Soup Freezer Meal is the perfect solution.
This freezer meal offers not just convenience but also the wholesome goodness of a homemade soup. Picture a cold, busy evening when you and your family yearn for something warm, soothing, and delicious.
With this make-ahead Chicken Noodle Soup in your freezer, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in minutes.The nostalgia of Chicken Noodle Soup and the most nutritious remedy that you will find for a sick day, this Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect example of what you can make ahead and use when the time comes.
Busy schedules, and sickness, are seasons of life, and this recipe will allow you to breathe at ease knowing you have the perfect meal waiting for you.
Our recipe combines tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and a flavorful broth, delivering a comforting experience with every spoonful.
Whether you’re dealing with hectic workdays, kids’ schedules, or simply want to enjoy a bowl of homemade soup without the cooking stress, our Chicken Noodle Soup Freezer Meal is here to make your life easier.
Prepare it in advance, store it in the freezer, and savor the convenience of a quick and delicious dinner whenever you desire. Say hello to stress-free meal planning and cozy evenings with our freezer meal at your fingertips.
Why you’ll Love this Make Ahead Chicken Noodle Soup
Sick Days Savior
Delicious Comfort Food
Budget-Friendly
Traditional Classic Recipe
Freezer Meal Friendly
Nutritious
Chicken Noodle Soup Freezer Meal
Hannah Stewart
Picture a cold, busy evening when you and your family yearn for something warm, soothing, and delicious. With this make-ahead Chicken Noodle Soup in your freezer, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in minutes.
Prepare a gallon freezer bag, labeling according to your preferred method.
Add all ingredients, except broth and pasta noodles, into labeled gallon freezer bag.
Seal bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to three months.
Slow Cooker Directions:
Thaw freezer bag in fridge 12-24 hours before cooking.
Dump contents of the freezer bag, plus 12 cups of chicken broth, to a slow cooker.
Cook on low 6-8 hours.
Add pasta noodles during the last 60 minutes cook time.
Remove chicken, shred or chop meat and stir back into slow cooker.
Stir, serve, and enjoy!
Instant Pot Directions
Dump the contents of the freezer bag into the Instant Pot, add 12 cups chicken broth.
Set to High Pressure for 8 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural release followed by a quick release.
Open lid and set instant pot to saute to bring soup to a simmer. Stir in the pasta noodles and cook according to the pasta package’s recommended time, usually about 6-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.
While the pasta is cooking, remove the chicken pieces from the soup. Shred or chop the meat, then stir it back into the Instant Pot.
Stir, serve, and enjoy!
Dietary Adjustments
Make it Gluten-Free:
Use gluten-free broth and pasta.
Make it Dairy-Free:
This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
Notes
Top off your soup with sour cream, fresh parsley or parmesan cheese!
Great served with a slice of artisan bread on the side!
Keyword Chicken Noodle Soup, crockpot dinners, Fast and Easy Dinner, freezer meals
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Equipment Needed to Make Family Friendly Chicken Noodle Soup
1 Slow Cooker or Crock Pot
1 gallon freezer bag
Ingredients Needed for your Chicken Noodle Soup
2 lb bone-in chicken thighs or chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup carrots, chopped
12 cup broth of preference I use chicken broth (Water will work too if needed)
1/2 tsp celery seeds
1 bay leaf
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 tsp dried parsley Use 2 tbsp fresh parsley if desired
8 oz pasta noodles of choice
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
How to Make a Chicken Noodle Soup
Freezer/Prep directions
Label Freezer bag with recipe name, cooking from frozen directions and expiration date (todays date plus three months).
Add all ingredients, except broth and pasta noodles, into labeled gallon freezer bag.
Store in freezer for up to three months.
Cooking directions
Thaw overnight in fridge or in the morning in some warm water (meal may not be 100% thawed but that is ok).
Add freezer bag contents into slow cooker.
Add 12 cups broth and cook on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4 hours. (May need to add an extra 30 minutes cook time if completely frozen, be sure to check temperature of chicken).
Add pasta noodles during the last 30 minutes cook time.
Remove chicken, shred or chop meat and remove bones (if necessary).
Stir chicken back into the soup and serve!
What to serve/pair with your Convenient Chicken Noodle Soup
Protein Variation: Instead of bone-in chicken thighs or chicken breasts, you can use boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast tenders for a quicker cooking time.
Gluten-Free Noodles: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, opt for gluten-free pasta noodles or rice noodles instead of regular pasta noodles.
Fresh Celery: If you have fresh celery available, you can use 1-2 stalks of chopped celery instead of celery seeds for a crunchier texture.
Additions:
Fresh Vegetables: Enhance the soup’s nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added color and flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Along with dried or fresh parsley, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma and taste.
Lemon Zest: Just before serving, zest some fresh lemon into the soup to brighten up the flavors and add a touch of citrusy freshness.
These substitutions and additions can add variety and customization to your Chicken Noodle Soup while maintaining its deliciousness as a freezer meal.
How to Reheat and Store Chicken Noodle Soup after cooking?
Best Way to Store Healthy Chicken Noodle Soup leftovers?
Storing Chicken Noodle Soup leftovers the right way is crucial to keep it fresh and tasty. So, here’s the lowdown:
First off, let your Chicken Noodle Soup cool down to room temperature. We don’t want to raise the fridge’s temperature too much, right? Give it about two hours on the kitchen counter, but don’t go beyond that – food safety first!
Once it’s cooled, get your trusty storage containers or resealable bags ready. Now, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. That way, no pesky freezer burn can sneak in! And make sure those containers are leak-proof, so you don’t end up with a mess in the fridge.
Now, if you’re planning on being a freezer-meal ninja, that’s cool too. Pop that Chicken Noodle Soup in the freezer, and it’ll stay awesome for 2-3 months. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, hassle-free meal waiting for you whenever you need it. Mama’s gotta have her quick and easy dinners, right?
How long will Chicken Noodle Soup last in the fridge?
When you adhere to the right cooling and storage steps, your homestyle beef leftovers should retain their freshness for about 4 to 5 days.
Can I freeze Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup?
If you’re planning to enjoy it within a few days, your trusty fridge is the way to go. But, if you’re thinking long-term, freezing is your friend. To freeze your Chicken Noodle Soup, follow the same cool-down process you’d do for the fridge. Let it chill at room temperature – but remember, not more than 2 hours, to keep those food nasties at bay.
Once it’s cool, grab a freezer bag, and in goes the soup. Squeeze out that extra air to dodge freezer burn (no one wants that!). Don’t forget the date label – it’s your little timekeeper in the freezer.
Now, if you’re feeling super organized and want to turn this into a raw freezer meal, you’re a freezer meal superhero! Toss all the ingredients into a labeled bag, except the broth and pasta noodles, squeeze out air, seal it up, and it’ll be your dinner savior for the next 3-6 months.
Easy peasy, right? Happy cooking.
How to Reheat Make-Ahead Chicken Noodle Soup?
Reheating your leftover Chicken Noodle Soup is a breeze, and you’ve got two trusty methods to choose from: stovetop and microwave.
Stovetop Method: Grab a saucepan or pot that’ll fit your soup – no need for a giant cauldron here! Pop it on the stove and set the heat to low-medium. Toss your Chicken Noodle Soup in there and give it an occasional stir to keep things heating evenly. If it looks a tad thick or lost some moisture in storage, add a splash of water or broth to reach your soup-sational consistency. Keep heating until your soup starts to gently simmer. Once it’s bubbling away, let it simmer for a few more minutes to make sure it’s thoroughly warmed up.
Microwave Method: Grab a microwave-safe container and transfer your desired soup portion in there. Cover it up with a microwave-safe lid or a plate. Use medium heat in short 1-2 minute bursts, stopping to give it a good stir between each interval. Keep going until your soup reaches your ideal temperature. Just be careful not to go overboard, as overheating can mess with the texture and flavor.
Both methods are winners, so pick the one that suits your mood and time frame. Enjoy your cozy soup, buddy
Quick and Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Freezer Meal Recipe FAQs
What are some interesting facts about Chicken Noodle Soup?
Chicken Noodle Soup boasts a incredible history and several intriguing facts. Its reputation lies in comfort food, but it has deep cultural roots.
Variations of chicken and noodle soups can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The Chinese have enjoyed a similar dish for centuries , with egg noodles, chicken and various seasonings.
The modern Chicken noodle Soup we know in the United States likely evolved from the Jewish immigrants in the early century. Its popularity soared during World War II when the US military used it as a nourishing and comforting meal for the soliders.
Why is Chicken Noodle Soup the go-to for sick people?
Chicken Noodle Soups’ reputation as the go-to remedy for sickness has very proven reasons. When you are under the weather, your body craves warmth and hydration, both of which this soup provides.
The warmth from the soup soothes a sore throat and clears nasal passages. The contents of the soup are easy to digest, which makes it gentle on the stomach. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and noodles delivers a balanced, nourishing meal, while the broth keeps you hydrated.
The ritual of sipping on a hot soup can be emotionally comforting as well during a sickness.
What is chicken noodle soup high in?
Chicken Noodle Soup is a nutrient rich powerhouse. It is high in protein from the chicken, providing essential amino acids for muscle repair and immune functions in the body. The vegetables, such as carrots and celery, contribute vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin K, as well as minerals like potassium.
The noodles in the soup provide carbohydrates, which supply energy, while the broth contains electrolytes that help with hydration. THe nutrients combinations makes Chicken Noodle Soup a well rounded meal.
What thickens Chicken Noodle Soup?
When you have a chicken noodle soup and it needs to be a thicker broth, this can be achieved in various methods.
While some recipes call for a mixture of fat and flour to thicken the broth, others rely on the natural starches released from noodles as they cook. Reducing the soup by simmering it uncovered can also lead to a thicker broth.
Some cooks prefer to blend a portion of the soup to create a creamier consistency without adding in extra cream.
What is the origin of Chicken Noodle Soup?
The history of Chicken Noodle Soup is diverse and often debated. While it has ancient origins in various cultures, its believed to have evolved into its current form here in the United States.
The dish likely comes from the Jewish heritage, but it has been more embraced and adapted by people of many backgrounds. Over time, regional variations have emerged, each adding its unique twist to this classic comfort food.
What mistakes should you avoid when making Chicken Noodle Soup?
When preparing Chicken Noodle Soup, avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best flavor and texture.
Overcooking the noodles can lead to mushy results, so it is crucial to add them toward the end of the cooking process, following the package’s instructions for cooking time.
Another mistake to avoid should be over-seasoning with salt, this will make your soup overly salty, particularly if you’re using store-bought broth.
Starting with low-quality chicken or neglecting to skim impurities from the broth can also impact the overall taste.
What substitutions can be made to a Chicken Noodle Soup?
Chicken Noodle Soup is a very versatile dish, and substitutions can be made to cater to dietary preferences of restrictions.
For example, you could substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to create a vegetarian version. If you are gluten-sensitive, use gluten free noodles to replace traditional wheat noodles without sacrificing taste or texture.
Experimenting with different vegetables, herbs, or spices, allows you to customize the flavor profile to your preference.
What are some regional variations to a Chicken Noodle Soup?
Chicken Noodle Soup has a global presence with numerous regional variations. In the US alone, you’ll find a variety of styles.
Southern-style Chicken Noodle Soup often includes extra vegetables like okra and uses more spices, creating a heartier version. In Louisiana, you might encounter a Cajun-style chicken and sausage gumbo, which offers a flavorful twist with cajun seasonings.
In Asian cuisines, variations like Japanese ramen, or Vietnamese pho incorporate chicken and noodles but with distinct flavors and ingredients reflecting the cultural ingredients and influences.
These regional adaptations showcase the versatility of this beloved comfort food from around the world.
Are there specific techniques to make a Chicken Noodle Soup?
Creating the perfect Chicken Noodle Soup involves several techniques. Begin by sautéing aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery in butter or oil to build a flavorful base. Simmering the soup slowly to allow the ingredients to meld and release their flavors into the broth is a super important technique to learn when making soups. It’s best to add the chicken toward the end of the cooking to prevent it from becoming tough or dry. While homemade chicken broth offers superior flavor, quality store-bought broth works well, especially when you are short on time.
As a full time working mom of four, I know how hard it is to find time (or energy) to cook. That’s why I’ve spent over a decade perfecting freezer meal recipes to make sure they’re not only quick to prepare but packed with flavors the whole family will love!
