The Easiest Jamaican Chicken Noodle Soup Ever Made
Jamaican food is known for its vibrant flavors and hearty dishes, and chicken noodle soup is no exception. This recipe simplifies the classic, allowing you to enjoy the delicious taste of Jamaica without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready for a comforting bowl of sunshine!
What Makes This Recipe So Easy?
This recipe prioritizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor. We're cutting down on unnecessary steps and using readily available ingredients to create a truly effortless yet satisfying Jamaican chicken noodle soup. Forget lengthy prep times and complicated techniques – this is your go-to recipe for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp ground thyme
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt to taste
- Fresh scallions, chopped (for garnish)
- Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), allspice, thyme, nutmeg, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Add Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
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Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh scallions and a pinch of finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper (if using) before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you'll need to increase the simmering time to ensure the chicken is cooked through. About 30-40 minutes should suffice. Remember to remove the bones before shredding the chicken.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables! Consider adding chopped bell peppers, green beans, or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
How can I make this soup spicier?
For a spicier kick, add more scotch bonnet pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add some heat.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Best Jamaican Chicken Noodle Soup:
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and scallions will significantly enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Don't overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles can become mushy. Cook them according to package directions for the best texture.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
This easy Jamaican chicken noodle soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Jamaica with minimal effort!
