Recipe revealed: the easiest way to make chicken noodle soup with drumsticks

Craving a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup? With its savory broth, tender chicken, and delectable noodles, this classic dish is a timeless favorite. But what if you could elevate your soup game by using juicy, flavorful drumsticks? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll embark on a culinary journey to discover how to make chicken noodle soup with drumsticks that will warm your body and soothe your soul.

Gathering Your Ingredients

To create this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need:

• 6-8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces egg noodles

Preparing the Drumsticks

1. Trim the Drumsticks: Remove any excess fat or skin from the drumsticks.
2. Season the Drumsticks: In a large bowl, combine the drumsticks with salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix well to coat evenly.

Creating the Flavorful Broth

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large stockpot over medium heat, heat a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
4. Add the Drumsticks: Carefully place the seasoned drumsticks into the boiling broth. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Adding the Noodles

1. Cook the Noodles: While the chicken is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions.
2. Drain the Noodles: Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.

Assembling the Soup

1. Remove the Drumsticks: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the drumsticks from the pot and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Shred the Chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. Add the Noodles and Chicken: Return the shredded chicken and cooked noodles to the pot with the flavorful broth.
4. Season to Taste: Adjust the seasonings to your liking, adding more salt, black pepper, or herbs as needed.

Finishing Touches

1. Serve the Soup: Ladle the hot and comforting soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
2. Enjoy the Warmth: Savor every sip of your homemade chicken noodle soup with drumsticks, letting its warmth and nourishment fill your body and soul.

Variations and Enhancements

• Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables such as peas, green beans, or potatoes to add variety to your soup.
• Noodles: Use different types of noodles, such as pasta shells, orzo, or even rice, to create a unique texture.
• Spices: Add a touch of heat with red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream for a richer and creamier soup.
• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use a Rotisserie Chicken: For a time-saving option, use a rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the drumsticks from scratch.
• Simmer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer for at least an hour to develop a deep and flavorful broth.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Overcooked noodles can become mushy, so cook them just until tender.
• Store Properly: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What can I substitute for drumsticks?
A: You can use chicken thighs, breasts, or even a whole chicken.

Q: Can I use homemade chicken broth?
A: Yes, homemade chicken broth will add even more flavor to your soup.

Q: How do I thicken the soup?
A: You can add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the soup and simmer until thickened.

Q: Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

Q: What are some healthy additions to the soup?
A: Add chopped spinach, kale, or other leafy greens for a nutritious boost.