If you are craving that warm, soothing bowl of comfort without the chicken, this No Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is the perfect answer. This vegan take on a classic delivers a rich, flavorful broth filled with tender, egg-free noodles and hearty vegetables, all simmered to perfection. It’s a heartwarming dish that offers all the familiar coziness of traditional chicken noodle soup while keeping things entirely plant-based. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a soup that feels like a big, comforting hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this soup plays a key role, whether it’s building the deep savory foundation, adding vibrant texture, or infusing that beloved homey aroma. The simplicity here is the secret—the essence of a great soup comes from fresh, well-matched staples that blend seamlessly.
- 6 cups vegetable broth: This is the soul of the soup, providing a rich, savory base that replaces chicken broth beautifully.
- 2 carrots, diced: Adds a natural sweetness and pop of color, plus a little bite that softens just right.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Brings a mild, slightly peppery flavor that balances the sweetness of the carrots.
- 1 onion, chopped: Essential for depth and that classic soup aroma, it softens and mellows as it cooks.
- 2 cups egg-free noodles or pasta: The comforting texture you expect from a noodle soup, made vegan-friendly.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing veggies and adding richness to the broth.
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning: This blend mimics the herbal warmth of traditional chicken soup seasoning, giving the broth its familiar flavor.
- Salt & pepper: To taste—don’t skip these, as they bring out every nuance in the soup.
How to Make No Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Cooking these until they are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes, releases their natural sweetness and forms the flavor foundation for the soup. This step is crucial because it gives your broth depth and complexity without any meat.
Step 2: Add Broth and Seasoning
Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. The seasoning is key here, as it mimics that classic chicken noodle soup taste, making this vegan version just as satisfying and rich. Letting the broth bubble for a few minutes helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Once your broth is boiling, stir in the egg-free noodles. Cook until they are tender, usually around 7-10 minutes depending on the type you use. This timing ensures the noodles soak up the broth’s flavor but remain perfectly chewy and not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
How to Serve No Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes make this soup shine even more. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or a few cracked black peppercorns on top. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon brightens every spoonful and adds a lovely fresh note that contrasts the warm broth.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. If you want to keep things cozy and comforting, a slice of garlic bread or some warm pita rounds makes for dipping and scooping, turning the meal into a full feast. For a healthier twist, a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve this soup in cute bread bowls for a fun and rustic presentation? You can also portion it into mason jars for an adorable grab-and-go lunch or pack it for a picnic. Adding chickpeas or tofu cubes right before serving is a great way to boost protein and mix up textures, making each bowl uniquely yours.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This No Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe keeps incredibly well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container and when you reheat, you may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid overnight. This soup actually tastes even better after a day as the flavors deepen.
Freezing
Freezing is a great option for this soup. However, for best texture, freeze the broth and vegetables separately from the noodles. Noodles tend to soften too much after thawing and reheating. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and combine, warming until everything is heated through.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a bit of fresh broth can bring back that perfect soup consistency. Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent the noodles from becoming overly mushy. This approach keeps the soup tasting fresh and vibrant every time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this No Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Any egg-free pasta like elbow macaroni, shells, or even spaghetti broken into smaller pieces work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so your noodles are perfectly tender.
Is poultry seasoning really necessary?
Poultry seasoning adds that classic herb blend reminiscent of chicken noodle soup and gives this vegan version its signature flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of sage, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram can be a great substitute.
How can I add protein to this soup?
Adding chickpeas or tofu cubes is an excellent way to boost protein without changing the soup’s character. Simply stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking or add as a garnish.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add noodles during the last 30 minutes to ensure they don’t get too soft.
Is this No Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! It’s mild, comforting, and full of familiar flavors that kids love. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without any fuss.
Final Thoughts
This No Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is one of those rare finds that feels like a hug in a bowl every time you make it. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just craving something lighter, this soup delivers comfort without compromise. It’s easy, flavorful, and adaptable, making it a perfect staple for your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll soon find that no chicken is needed to enjoy the wonderful warmth of this classic soup.
Print
No Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A comforting and hearty vegan chicken noodle soup featuring a rich vegetable broth, tender egg-free noodles, and wholesome diced vegetables, perfect for a cozy, plant-based meal.
Ingredients
Broth & Seasoning
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
Pasta & Oil
- 2 cups egg-free noodles or pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add broth and seasoning: Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Cook noodles: Once boiling, add the egg-free noodles to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Final season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Notes
- For added protein, stir in cooked chickpeas or cubed tofu during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use gluten-free noodles to make the soup gluten-free.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or mushrooms for extra texture.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
