Ingredients
Method
Step-by-Step
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, jalapeño, salt, and black pepper, then cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds, just until the aromatics are fragrant without letting the garlic brown.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then add the raw chicken.
- Reduce the heat, partially cover the pot, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the soup.
- Add the dried egg noodles and simmer according to the package directions, usually 6 to 8 minutes, until tender.
- Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon or lime juice and optional hot sauce, then taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and heat.
- Serve each bowl topped with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.
Notes
Chicken thighs stay especially tender, though chicken breasts work well too. For leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual bowls so they do not absorb too much broth. For a shortcut, use 2 1/2 to 3 cups shredded cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken and add it with the noodles; simmer until heated through.
