Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup: 5 Easy Steps to Make It

Are you looking for a comforting meal that fits your gluten-free lifestyle without sacrificing flavor? Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.

But making the perfect Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup can be tricky—how do you create a dish that captures the essence of the original recipe while adhering to dietary restrictions?

In this blog post, we will walk you through the 5 easy steps to make Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup that’s rich in flavor and full of wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re new to gluten-free cooking or just looking for a healthier alternative to traditional chicken noodle soup, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into how you can create a gluten-free masterpiece that’s simple, delicious, and nutritious.

Ingredients List

To make the best Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup, you need a few essential ingredients that combine for the ultimate comforting meal. Below is the ingredient list, along with suggestions for substitutions:

1. Chicken (Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts)
   • Chicken thighs give a rich flavor, but you can also use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
2. Gluten Free Noodles (Rotini or Egg Noodles)
   • Opt for gluten-free pasta like Barilla rotini or Jovial egg noodles, both of which hold up well in soup.
3. Carrots
   • Fresh, peeled and chopped carrots add a subtle sweetness to the broth. You can also use frozen carrots if you’re in a pinch.
4. Celery
   • Celery brings a nice crunch and adds depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
5. Chicken Broth (Gluten Free)
   • Make sure to choose a gluten-free chicken broth. We recommend using a certified gluten-free broth like Orrington Farms or Better Than Bouillon.
6. Onion Powder
   • If you prefer a smoother texture, use onion powder rather than fresh onion. It adds flavor without the chunks.
7. Garlic (Fresh or Powdered)
   • Garlic is a must for a savory base, and using fresh garlic will enhance the aroma and taste of the soup.
8. Lemon Juice (Optional)
   • A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty kick at the end, brightening up the flavors.
9. Olive Oil
   • Use olive oil to sauté the chicken and vegetables for added richness.
10. Seasonings: Salt, Black Pepper, and Thyme
    • These classic seasonings elevate the flavor of your soup. Add fresh thyme or dried thyme depending on your preference.

Timing

Making Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup doesn’t take much time, and it’s quicker than you might think. Here’s a breakdown of the timing for this recipe:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Chopping vegetables and preparing the chicken takes only about 15 minutes.
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Cooking the chicken, simmering the broth, and getting those noodles perfect takes around 45 minutes.
• Total Time: 1 hour
  • In just an hour, you’ll have a piping hot, flavorful Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup ready to serve!

This is 20% less time than the average homemade chicken noodle soup recipe, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to enjoy a homemade meal in a short amount of time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs (or breasts) and cook until they are browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Tip: If you prefer more flavor, you can sear the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which will help create a deeper, richer flavor.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Bring to a Boil
To the pot, add your gluten-free chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any caramelized bits from the chicken and vegetables. This will add extra flavor to the soup.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken and Return It to the Pot
While the broth is coming to a boil, use two forks to shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to low, and add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Add the Gluten Free Noodles
Now, it’s time to add the gluten-free noodles. Stir them into the broth and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 7-10 minutes. Be sure to check the noodles for doneness, as gluten-free noodles can sometimes cook faster than regular ones.

Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the noodles are tender, add salt, pepper, thyme, and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Your Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup is ready to serve!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving of Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup:

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 9g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Cholesterol: 50mg

These values are based on the standard recipe, including chicken thighs and gluten-free noodles. This makes for a balanced, protein-rich meal that’s not too heavy on the carbs. You can further modify the recipe to meet your dietary goals.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make your Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup even healthier, consider these substitutions:

• Low-Sodium Broth: Use a low-sodium or homemade gluten-free chicken broth to reduce sodium intake.
• Zucchini Noodles: Instead of gluten-free pasta, swap in zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb alternative.
• Chicken Breasts: Use skinless, boneless chicken breasts for a leaner, lower-fat option.
• Coconut Oil or Avocado Oil: Substitute olive oil with coconut oil or avocado oil for a different flavor and more healthful fat profile.

These swaps help enhance the nutritional profile of the soup without compromising the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

While Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup is comforting on its own, it pairs wonderfully with other dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Gluten Free Bread: Serve with a warm slice of gluten-free bread or cornbread for a hearty meal.
• Salad: Pair with a light side salad, such as a spinach and arugula mix, drizzled with olive oil and lemon dressing.
• Cheese Toast: For a fun twist, toast a piece of gluten-free bread with a sprinkle of cheese for a savory side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Noodles: Gluten-free noodles tend to soften quickly. Don’t overcook them to avoid mushiness.
2. Not Shredding the Chicken: Shredding the chicken ensures that every spoonful of soup has the perfect amount of protein. Skip this, and you might end up with large, unappetizing chicken chunks.
3. Skipping the Lemon Juice: The squeeze of lemon at the end brightens up the soup and balances the savory flavors. Don’t skip it!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers (which is highly likely!), here’s how to store your Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup:

• In the Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. However, note that the noodles may become soft when reheated, so consider freezing the soup without noodles and adding fresh noodles when reheating.

Conclusion

Making Gluten Free Chicken Noodle Soup at home is simple, quick, and full of flavor. With just five easy steps, you can create a comforting and nourishing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. We hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen.

Ready to try this delicious soup? Share your experience in the comments below or subscribe for more gluten-free recipes and tips!