It’s that time of year again – when a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup seems to be the only cure for a cold winter’s day. Whether you’re a fan of homemade recipes or your kitchen’s favorite can, it’s hard to deny that the combination of tender chicken and comforting noodles is a definite crowd-pleaser.
But if you’re looking for an easy way to jazz up a winter staple, we’ve got you covered with several delicious side dishes that will pair perfectly with your chicken noodle soup. Read on to find out what goes well with chicken noodle soup and make your cold-weather meal complete.
Let’s start with toasted bread. A nice, crusty piece of bread can take your soup experience to the next level, adding a crunchy texture reminiscent of croutons. But don’t just settle for a basic piece of toast – try experimenting with different types of bread and spreading, such as sourdough, pumpernickel, or honey butter.
Next up, some greenery. Whether you’re looking for an easy way to sneak some extra vegetables or even jalapenos into your meal or just want to freshen up the flavors, a side salad is the way to go. Try rotating different greens, like kale, romaine, or spinach, and adding in some flavorful toppings, such as a few slices of avocado, feta cheese, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
For a more substantial side dish, try a quinoa salad. The nutty flavor of the quinoa will pair perfectly with the richness of the soup, and the addition of various vegetables and herbs, such as bell peppers, scallions, and parsley, will give your meal a major flavor and texture upgrade.
If you’re looking for something entirely different, why not try a sweet and savory combination? Cornbread is an ideal accompaniment to a hearty bowl of soup, especially if it’s topped with honey butter or a sprinkle of cheese. Or, for a more unexpected twist, pair your soup with a slice of apple pie for an out-of-the-box experience.
Check our last article, if you want something sweet after soup: is rice pudding gluten free?
Of course, no meal would be complete without a few drinks. Hot chocolate is a classic that goes well with almost any soup, but if you’re looking for something a bit more grown-up, opt for a mulled wine or festive cocktail. Both options will provide warmth and sweetness that perfectly complements the dish.
That’s it – five simple side dishes and drinks will take your soup experience to the next level. Put a spin on a winter classic by experimenting with different flavors and textures, and your family will thank you for the hearty and delicious meal. So next time you’re wondering what goes well with chicken noodle soup, try one of these tasty sides and make your meal complete.
My own way with Chicken Noodle Soup
It’s funny how time honored recipes can take on a life of their own. Chicken noodle soup has been a staple in American households for decades, yet each family seems to have its own unique blend of ingredients – a concoction that’s been perfected over time and passed down from generation to generation. As a native of North Carolina and the proud mother of three, my family’s version of chicken noodle soup has become something of a legend in our household.
Upon entering the kitchen, the savory scent of savory herbs and vegetables welcomes us. I begin by sautéing some chopped celery and carrots, a standard base for any tasty chicken noodle soup. I add in a heaping teaspoon of chopped garlic to give the soup a nice kick and balance the flavors. Once these are all cooked down and softened, I add my secret ingredient – apple cider vinegar. This provides a nice tartness that adds another layer to the flavor profile of the soup.
Next, I’m ready to add the noodles. I like to use a combination of bow tie pasta, egg noodles, and ditalini for a hearty bite. I cook the noodles in some chicken broth for added flavor and let them simmer for a bit before adding the diced chicken. For optimal flavor, I use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs that I cubed myself, as this ensures the most tender, juicy morsels in the soup.
Once the chicken is added, I season the soup with plenty of salt, pepper and my most treasured ingredient – dried thyme. It’s the key to getting that classic, savory flavor that my family enjoys so much. Once everything is cooked and seasoned to perfection, it’s time to enjoy a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup.
Our version of this classic comfort food usually garners rave reviews, but that doesn’t mean I’m not always looking to tweak and improve the recipe. With all of this, you should know does peach cobbler need to be refrigerated? Recently, I started experimenting with adding a few new ingredients such as turmeric and fresh parsley to add even more layers to the flavor. I’ve been surprised in a good way – with the results, as these additions help to really bring out the flavor of the vegetables and herbs in the soup.
And so there you have it – my family’s tried-and-true best chicken noodle soup combination. It’s a recipe that has withstood the test of time, and one that I will cherish for many years to come. So go ahead, give it a try and make it your own. I have a feeling that you and your family will love it just as much as mine does.
