When the weather turns chilly or you’re just craving something warm and comforting, nothing beats a big bowl of vegan chicken noodle soup. It’s hearty, flavorful, and gives you all the cozy vibes of the classic without any of the chicken. Instead, we’re using plant-based ingredients to recreate the texture and flavor you know and love. Some people feel under the weather, while others spend weekends prepping meals ahead of time, and finally, some are just looking for a very nourishing dinner idea. Whichever the situation, this fantastic soup hits the spot. Making vegan chicken noodle soup is surprisingly easy, and believe me, it’s as satisfying as a chicken soup ever could be. The great part: it’s packed with vegetables, protein, and plenty of tender noodles for an all-around meal perfect any day of the week.
Let’s get into how to make this comforting bowl of goodness!
Why You’ll Love Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
If you’re new to vegan cooking or just love experimenting with plant-based recipes, this soup is a must-try. Here’s why:
- Hearty and Flavorful: With perfectly seasoned broth, tender noodles, and protein-packed plant-based chicken or chickpeas, this soup delivers comfort in every spoonful.
- Healthy and Nourishing: Full of veggies, herbs, and whole-food ingredients, it’s both wholesome and filling.
- Easy to Make: You can whip this up in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Not into faux chicken? No problem! This recipe works just as well with chickpeas, tofu, or jackfruit as the main protein.
And if you’re looking for more comforting soup options, try Marry Me Chicken Soup or a flavorful Chicken Florentine Soup Recipe to add to your collection.
Now, let’s talk ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious vegan chicken noodle soup:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for a golden broth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
the Broth:
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adds depth to the flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon nutritional yeast (optional, for extra umami)
For the “Chicken” and Noodles:
- 2 cups plant-based chicken strips (or 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups dry noodles (traditional egg-free noodles, rotini, or spaghetti broken into smaller pieces work well)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- A squeeze of lemon juice
- Crackers or crusty bread on the side
How to Make Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by chopping your vegetables and gathering all your ingredients. This step will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a very big pot, bring the olive oil to medium temperature. Throw in the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion turns translucent.
Step 3: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, parsley, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices, letting the aroma fill your kitchen. This step is key for building a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable broth, bay leaf, soy sauce, and nutritional yeast (if using). Stir everything together, then bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Step 5: Add the “Chicken” and Noodles
Stir in the plant-based chicken strips (or chickpeas) and dry noodles. Let the soup simmer uncovered for another 8–10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Keep an eye on the noodles to avoid overcooking them.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Now when noodles are cooked, taste the soup. If it’s needed, adjust the seasonings- maybe add in a little more salt, pepper, or soy sauce until they match your preferences. A squeeze of lemon juice would add that touch of zing that one might be missing in flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy it warm with a side of crackers or crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
- Choose Your Noodles Wisely: Look for egg-free pasta or use gluten-free noodles if needed. Thin noodles or rotini work great for soaking up the broth.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook the noodles until they’re just tender, as they’ll continue to soften in the hot broth.
- Layer the Flavors: Adding a touch of soy sauce and nutritional yeast can give the broth a rich, savory taste.
- Customize the Protein: Not a fan of plant-based chicken? Try chickpeas, cubed tofu, or jackfruit instead.
If you like experimenting with different flavors, you might enjoy trying out a Chicken Chorizo Pie Recipe as another savory dish to add to your meal plan.
Why This Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup is a Game-Changer
This soup isn’t just about replacing chicken with a plant-based alternative—it’s about recreating the same comforting flavors and textures of the classic dish while using wholesome, vegan ingredients. The golden broth, tender veggies, and hearty noodles are the ultimate combination for a soul-soothing meal.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just trying to eat more plant-based meals, this soup is an excellent way to satisfy cravings for something cozy and nutritious. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients too!
- Vegetables: Carrots and celery add vitamins, fiber, and a natural sweetness to the broth.
- Plant-Based Protein: Chickpeas or vegan chicken provide protein to keep you full and energized.
- Low in Saturated Fat: With no animal products, this soup is heart-healthy and light.
- Turmeric: This spice is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and gives the broth its beautiful golden color.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamin A: 120% DV
- Vitamin C: 15% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Protein Options | Plant-based chicken, chickpeas, tofu, or jackfruit |
| Preparation Time | Ready in under an hour |
| Diet-Friendly | Vegan, dairy-free, and easily made gluten-free |
| Flavor Boosters | Soy sauce, nutritional yeast, and fresh herbs |
| Perfect For | Chilly nights, meal prep, or comforting dinners |
Conclusion
This vegan chicken noodle soup is proof that you don’t need chicken to enjoy a bowl of warm, hearty comfort. With its flavorful broth, tender noodles, and plenty of veggies, it’s the ultimate plant-based take on a classic. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for something cozy, this soup is sure to hit the spot.
Give it a try, and I guarantee you’ll come back to this recipe again and again. It’s so satisfying, easy to customize, and downright delicious. Perfect for soup season—or any season, really!
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
1. What can I use instead of plant-based chicken in vegan chicken noodle soup?
If you prefer not to use plant-based chicken, there are plenty of alternatives! Chickpeas are an excellent substitute, offering a hearty texture and a boost of protein. Tofu, either cubed or shredded, is another great option, as is young jackfruit, which has a shredded texture similar to chicken. You can also try seitan for a more meaty texture.
2. Can I make vegan chicken noodle soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the soup gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure that your soy sauce is labeled gluten-free (or swap it for tamari). If you’re using a plant-based chicken substitute, double-check that it’s gluten-free as well.
3. Can I freeze vegan chicken noodle soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! However, If you freeze the soup with noodles in it, chances are very likely that the noodles will turn mushy after reheating. So, store the broth and veggies in airtight containers for as long as three months. Freeze everything with no exception.When you’re ready to eat, reheat the soup and add freshly cooked noodles.
4. How long does vegan chicken noodle soup last in the fridge?
You can store this soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop even more over time, making it great for leftovers.
5. Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! This soup is highly customizable. Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, kale, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and variety. Just add softer vegetables toward the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking.