Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. If using chicken breasts, cut them into small pieces. For chicken thighs, leave them whole or cut them into smaller pieces.
2. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes until browned on both sides.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery.
2. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

1. Pour in the chicken broth and water.
2. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir everything together.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles Separately

1. While the soup is simmering, cook the egg noodles separately according to the package instructions.
2. Drain, rinse, and set aside.

Step 5: Finish the Soup

1. After the soup has simmered for 20 minutes, return the cooked chicken to the pot.
2. Simmer for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
3. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
4. Add the cooked egg noodles to the soup and stir well.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
3. Enjoy with warm bread or crackers!