Chicken Vegetable Soup With Rice Noodles – The Coziest Healthy One-Pot Winter Dinner
There is something deeply comforting about a steaming bowl of chicken vegetable soup with rice noodles on a cold evening. As a chef and longtime food writer, this is one of those recipes I find myself returning to every winter. It’s healthy, nourishing, and feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This winter soup is cozy without being heavy, creamy without relying on excess dairy, and incredibly easy to make in just one pot.
When I started developing this recipe, my goal was simple: create a homemade, clean eating soup that fits busy weeknights but still feels special enough for a slow, relaxing seasonal dinner. The result is an asian inspired comfort food that’s packed with veggies, tender chicken, and silky rice noodles simmered in flavorful meals with chicken broth.
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Why This Chicken Vegetable Soup Is My Go-To Winter Comfort Food
I’ve cooked professionally for years, but even chefs crave simplicity at home. This soup checks every box: it’s easy, cozy, and incredibly flexible. Everything cooks together in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy the evening.
The rice noodles add a light, comforting texture, while the chicken broth keeps everything soothing and balanced. A small amount of coconut milk adds that subtle creamy finish without overpowering the dish. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes you feel good both while eating it and afterward.
Ingredients for Chicken Vegetable Soup With Rice Noodles
Below are the exact measurements I use every time I make this soup. These ingredients are simple, accessible, and perfect for clean eating winter meals.
Protein
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 medium carrots, sliced (about 1 cup)
- 2 celery stalks, sliced (about ¾ cup)
- 1½ cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups baby spinach or bok choy, roughly chopped
Noodles & Broth
- 8 cups (2 liters) low-sodium chicken broth
- 6 oz (170 g) dried rice noodles
Flavor & Creaminess
- ¾ cup full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Juice of 1 lime
How to Make Chicken Vegetable Soup With Rice Noodles
This section is all about how to make this cozy soup without stress. I always recommend reading through once before starting—it makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
- Build the broth: Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Add vegetables: Stir in carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Simmer for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Add rice noodles: Add rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 4–6 minutes.
- Finish creamy: Stir in coconut milk, spinach, sesame oil, and lime juice. Simmer for 2 more minutes and remove from heat.
Chef Tips for the Best Cozy & Creamy Texture
From experience, rice noodles can overcook quickly. I always add them near the end and remove the pot from heat as soon as they are tender. This keeps the soup silky rather than mushy.
For extra creaminess, don’t boil after adding coconut milk—gentle heat keeps the broth smooth and luxurious. These little details make the difference between a good soup and a truly cozy one.
Healthy & Clean Eating Benefits
This healthy winter soup is naturally balanced: lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and hydrating broth. It supports digestion, keeps you full, and fits perfectly into a clean eating lifestyle.
Because it’s homemade, you control sodium, fat, and ingredient quality. It’s comfort food that loves you back.
My Favorite Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
1. Large Dutch Oven (Amazon Recommendation)
A heavy-bottom Dutch oven distributes heat evenly, making it perfect for one pot soups. I use mine constantly during winter for cozy meals like this.
Call to Action: If you love homemade soups, investing in a quality Dutch oven will elevate every recipe—this one included.
2. Silicone Ladle & Soup Spoon Set (Amazon Recommendation)
A heat-resistant ladle makes serving easy without scratching your pot. I always keep one nearby when making broth-based meals.
Call to Action: Upgrade your soup nights with tools that make serving clean and effortless.
3. Glass Meal Prep Containers with Lids (Amazon Recommendation)
These containers are perfect for storing leftovers without soggy noodles. They’re freezer-friendly and ideal for clean eating meal prep.
Call to Action: Make winter meal prep stress-free with containers designed for soups and broths.
Easy Variations & Substitutions
You can swap chicken thighs for breast, add extra veggies like zucchini, or make it spicier with chili paste. For a dairy-free creamy option, coconut milk works beautifully every time.
This soup adapts easily, which is why it’s one of my favorite winter recipes.
What to Serve With This Seasonal Dinner
This soup is satisfying on its own, but I love pairing it with a light cucumber salad or simple steamed greens. It completes the seasonal dinner without overpowering the cozy vibe.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. If possible, keep noodles separate to maintain texture. Reheat gently on the stove with extra broth if needed.
Final Thoughts
This chicken vegetable soup with rice noodles is more than just a meal—it’s a reminder that healthy, clean eating can still feel deeply comforting. Every time I make it, I’m reminded why simple, homemade food is always worth the effort.
If you’re looking for a cozy, easy, one pot winter soup that you’ll want to cook again and again, this is it.
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