Leeks In Chicken Noodle Soup

Start day, I’m thrilled to share one of my all-time favorite soup recipes with a twist: Leeks in Chicken Noodle Soup. Incorporating leeks into chicken noodle soup elevates the classic comfort dish to new heights with its subtle yet distinctive flavor profile.

These slender, mild-flavored vegetables bring a delicate sweetness and a hint of onion-like aroma to the hearty broth. As they simmer alongside tender chunks of chicken, carrots, and celery, leeks infuse the soup with their unique essence, adding depth and complexity to every spoonful.

Their gentle green hue adds visual appeal to the golden broth, inviting anticipation of the wholesome goodness within. Together, leeks and chicken noodle soup create a harmonious symphony of flavors, comforting both body and soul.

What Is Leek Soup Made Of?

Leek soup is made of leeks, potatoes, onions, broth, and seasoning. First, I sauté chopped leeks and onions in butter until they’re soft. Then, I add diced potatoes and broth to the pot.

Next, I let the mixture simmer until the potatoes are tender. Finally, I blend everything until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste. That’s it! A simple yet delicious leek soup ready to be enjoyed.

What Part Of Chicken Is Best For Soup?

The best part of chicken for soup is the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They add rich flavor and keep the broth tasty. The bones release collagen, making the soup more satisfying.

The skin adds depth and richness to the broth. Thigh meat stays tender and moist when simmered. It’s economical and flavorful for homemade soup.

How To Make Leeks In Chicken Noodle Soup?

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Comfort Food

Yield: 4 servings

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Soup bowls

Ingredients

• 2 leeks, cleaned and thinly sliced
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Saute The Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in sliced leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Add Chicken And Vegetables

Add diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Stir in sliced carrots and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes.

3. Simmer The Soup

Pour in chicken broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Cook The Noodles

Meanwhile, cook egg noodles according to package instructions in a separate pot. Drain the noodles and set aside.

5. Combine And Serve

Once the soup is ready, add cooked noodles to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts Of Leeks In Chicken Noodle Soup

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Dietary Fiber: 3 g
• Sugars: 4 g
• Protein: 28 g

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• For added freshness, squeeze a splash of lemon juice over the soup just before serving.

Tips And Variations

• To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• For a creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.

Special Note

Leeks can sometimes harbor dirt and grit between their layers, so be sure to thoroughly rinse and clean them before using in the soup.

Conclusion

leeks bring a subtle yet distinct flavor profile to chicken noodle soup, enhancing its depth and complexity. Their delicate onion-like taste adds a savory sweetness that complements the richness of the broth and the tender chicken.

Additionally, the leeks’ mild aroma infuses the soup with a comforting fragrance, inviting anticipation with every spoonful. Whether thinly sliced and sautéed for a caramelized richness or added raw for a fresh crunch, leeks elevate the traditional chicken noodle soup to a new level of culinary satisfaction.

 Embracing both their nutritional benefits and culinary versatility, leeks undoubtedly enrich the soup experience, making it a heartwarming and wholesome delight for any occasion.