This spicy chicken noodle soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a kick of spice, it’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
I love how easy it is to whip up this soup—just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. Plus, the smell will have your family running to the kitchen! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great base for this soup! If you prefer, you can use vegetable oil or coconut oil instead. Each gives a slightly different flavor, with coconut oil adding a subtle sweetness.
Chicken Broth: For a lighter option, use vegetable broth. If you’re low on stock, adding water with some seasonings can also work. Homemade broth can bring extra flavor!
Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or swap in turkey if you want. For a vegetarian version, substitute with tofu or chickpeas for added protein.
Noodles: Ramen noodles are a fun choice, but feel free to use rice noodles or any pasta you have on hand. Gluten-free alternatives are available if needed.
Chili Peppers: If you like it milder, opt for bell peppers or skip them altogether. Jalapeños can also be used for a similar heat level, depending on your preference.
How Do I Get the Most Flavor From Onions and Garlic?
The sautéing process is key to building flavor in this soup. Start by heating the olive oil in the pot before adding onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Make sure to cook the onions until they are translucent. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes, which helps release their natural sweetness.
- Add garlic and ginger in the last minute of cooking the onions. This ensures they don’t burn and release their strong flavors.
- Stir often, so everything cooks evenly and smells amazing!
How to Make Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1-2 fresh red chili peppers, sliced (adjust for heat preference)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (about 1 large chicken breast)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 4 oz ramen-style noodles or egg noodles
- Juice of 1 lime (plus extra lime slices for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious spicy chicken noodle soup will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, especially perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté them together until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant—this takes about 3-4 minutes. Enjoy the wonderful smell that fills your kitchen!
2. Add Your Veggies:
Next, toss in the sliced carrots and red chili peppers. Cook these for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will brighten the flavors and add a nice crunch to the soup.
3. Bring It to a Boil:
Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat until the mixture comes to a boil. This step sets the stage for your soup!
4. Combine the Chicken and Spices:
Now, stir in the shredded chicken, soy sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow all the flavors to blend beautifully.
5. Add the Noodles:
It’s noodle time! Add the ramen-style or egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions—usually about 3-5 minutes—until they’re nice and tender.
6. Finish with Lime and Cilantro:
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to enjoy your creation! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra lime slices, chopped cilantro, and sliced chili peppers if you like it spicy. Dive into this hearty and vibrant soup, and feel that warmth and comfort with every spoonful!
Enjoy your flavorful spicy chicken noodle soup!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor. Just shred it and add it in step 4 when combining with the broth and spices.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds before slicing. You can also substitute them with bell peppers or add just a pinch of red pepper flakes for a controlled heat level.
Can This Soup Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make this soup a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of broth or water, as the noodles will absorb some liquid over time.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This spicy chicken noodle soup is delightful on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a more filling meal. Enjoy it with a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
