Saffron chicken noodle soup is a luxurious and comforting dish that combines the warmth of traditional chicken noodle soup with the exotic flavor of saffron. This vibrant spice, known for its distinct aroma and golden hue, elevates the classic recipe to new heights, creating a rich and fragrant broth.
Perfect for cozy evenings or as a gourmet starter, saffron chicken noodle soup brings together tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all infused with the delicate and slightly floral notes of saffron.
This soup not only soothes the soul but also delights the palate with its unique and sophisticated twist on a beloved comfort food.
When Should You Add Saffron To Soup?
You should add saffron to soup towards the end of cooking. This allows its flavor and color to infuse properly. Adding it too early may diminish its impact. Saffron blooms in warm liquid, enhancing the soup’s aroma and appearance.
How To Make Saffron Chicken Noodle Soup?
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Fusion
Yield: 6 servings
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon saffron threadshttps://www.thespruceeats.com/saffron-facts-selection-and-storage-1802426
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare The Saffron Infusion
In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of the chicken broth with saffron threads. Heat over low heat until warm and let it steep while you prepare the rest of the soup.
2. Cook The Chicken
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside to cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks.
3. Saute The Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Saute for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
4. Combine Ingredients
Pour the remaining chicken broth into the pot. Add the saffron infusion (including the threads), shredded chicken, and dried thyme. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer The Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Add The Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
7. Season And Serve
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts Of Saffron Chicken Noodle Soup
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
Serving Suggestions Of Saffron Chicken Noodle Soup
This Saffron Chicken Noodle Soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Tips And Variations Of Saffron Chicken Noodle Soup
Tips
- Use high-quality saffron for the best flavor. A little goes a long way!
- For a richer broth, you can add a splash of cream at the end of cooking.
Variations
- Swap out egg noodles for gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate other vegetables such as peas or corn for added texture and flavor.
Health Benefits Of Saffron Chicken Noodle Soup
Saffron is known for its numerous health benefits. It’s a powerful antioxidant, which helps fight inflammation and promotes overall well-being. Chicken provides a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The vegetables add a good dose of vitamins and minerals, making this soup not only delicious but also nutritious.
Special Note
If you’re new to cooking with saffron, don’t be intimidated by its luxurious reputation. It’s quite easy to use and adds an unparalleled depth of flavor and color to your dishes. Remember, quality matters more than quantity with this precious spice.
Conclusion
saffron chicken noodle soup offers a luxurious and flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish. The addition of saffron not only provides a unique, aromatic essence but also imparts a beautiful golden hue to the broth, elevating the visual and sensory appeal of the soup.
This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a blend of vegetables, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Ideal for both special occasions and everyday dinners, saffron chicken noodle soup is a delightful way to enjoy a traditional favorite with a gourmet touch.
Saffron Chicken Noodle Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients Â
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 large carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
8 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon saffron threadshttps://www.thespruceeats.com/saffron-facts-selection-and-storage-1802426
1 cup egg noodles
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
InstructionsÂ
Prepare The Saffron Infusion
- In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of the chicken broth with saffron threads. Heat over low heat until warm and let it steep while you prepare the rest of the soup.
Cook The Chicken
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside to cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks.
Saute The Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Saute for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
Combine Ingredients
- Pour the remaining chicken broth into the pot. Add the saffron infusion (including the threads), shredded chicken, and dried thyme. Stir well to combine.
Simmer The Soup
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add The Noodles
- Add the egg noodles to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Season And Serve
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
Hello! I am Shikha, I am a soup recipe maker. I have a lot of passion for making soup. With a journey spanning over five years in the culinary industry, I have carved a niche for myself as a distinguished soup maker whose creations are not just meals but experiences that linger on the palate and nourish the soul. My specialization in soup-making is a testament to my creativity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond my skills in the kitchen, I am an avid writer, passionately sharing my knowledge and insights into nutrition through my writing. My approach to soup-making is holistic, emphasizing each ingredient’s taste and health benefits. A well-made soup can be a cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while pleasing the taste buds.