Chicken noodle soup: it’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Comforting, familiar, and utterly delicious, it’s a staple in many households, especially during the colder months or when feeling under the weather. But even the most beloved soup can benefit from a complementary side dish to create a complete and satisfying meal. Deciding what to pair with this classic can elevate the entire dining experience, adding texture, flavor, and nutritional balance.
The Importance of a Complementary Side Dish
Choosing the right side dish for chicken noodle soup is about more than just adding extra food to the plate. It’s about creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that enhance the overall enjoyment of the meal. A good side dish should complement the soup, not compete with it. Consider what the soup already provides: warmth, brothiness, and a savory chicken flavor. The side dish can then fill in the gaps, offering something different, like crunch, acidity, or a contrasting sweetness.
It also adds to the nutritional profile. Chicken noodle soup is already fairly nutritious, containing protein from the chicken and vegetables, and carbohydrates from the noodles. A thoughtful side dish can contribute additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber, creating a more well-rounded and healthy meal.
Bread: The Classic Companion
Let’s start with the obvious, and arguably the most popular choice: bread. Bread and soup are a timeless combination, and for good reason. Bread offers a textural contrast to the soft noodles and tender chicken, and it’s perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. However, not all breads are created equal when it comes to pairing with chicken noodle soup.
Types of Bread to Consider
A crusty bread, such as a sourdough or baguette, provides a satisfying chewiness that complements the softness of the soup. The tanginess of sourdough can also cut through the richness of the broth.
A simple, soft roll, like a dinner roll or a crescent roll, is another great option. These are easy to eat and provide a comforting sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the soup.
Consider adding a spread to your bread. Butter is always a classic choice, but you can also experiment with flavored butters, such as garlic herb butter or pesto butter. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can also elevate the bread.
Why Bread Works So Well
Bread provides a textural contrast. The soft soup and crunchy/chewy bread create a pleasant sensory experience.
It’s a vehicle for the broth. Sopping up every last drop of the flavorful broth is one of the great joys of eating soup and bread.
It’s filling and satisfying. Bread adds carbohydrates, which can help you feel full and satisfied after your meal.
Salads: Adding Freshness and Vibrancy
If you’re looking for a lighter and more refreshing side dish, a salad is an excellent choice. A salad can add a welcome burst of freshness and vibrancy to the meal, balancing the warmth and richness of the soup. The key is to choose a salad with complementary flavors and textures.
Salad Ideas for Chicken Noodle Soup
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a classic choice. The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the soup.
A chopped salad with a variety of vegetables, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers, can add a satisfying crunch and a boost of nutrients.
A fruit salad with seasonal fruits, such as apples, grapes, and berries, can add a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the savory flavors of the soup.
Dressing Considerations
The dressing is a key component of any salad, and it’s important to choose a dressing that complements the flavors of both the salad and the soup. A light vinaigrette, such as a lemon vinaigrette or a balsamic vinaigrette, is a good all-around choice. Avoid creamy dressings, as they can be too heavy and overwhelming when paired with soup. A simple drizzle of olive oil and vinegar is often all you need to let the fresh ingredients shine.
Grilled Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Combo
For the ultimate comfort food experience, you can’t go wrong with grilled cheese and chicken noodle soup. The combination of warm, cheesy bread and savory soup is a classic for a reason. The richness of the cheese complements the broth, while the crispy bread provides a satisfying crunch.
Choosing the Right Cheese and Bread
Classic cheddar cheese is always a good choice for grilled cheese, but you can also experiment with other cheeses, such as Gruyere, mozzarella, or provolone. Each cheese will add a unique flavor to the sandwich.
Sourdough bread is a popular choice for grilled cheese, but you can also use other types of bread, such as white bread, wheat bread, or even brioche. The type of bread you choose will affect the texture and flavor of the sandwich.
Elevating Your Grilled Cheese
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your grilled cheese. Add some sliced tomatoes, onions, or spinach to the sandwich for extra flavor and nutrients. Spread a thin layer of pesto or garlic butter on the bread before grilling for a boost of flavor. You can even add some cooked bacon or ham for a heartier sandwich.
Vegetables: A Healthy and Flavorful Addition
Adding a side of vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value of your meal and add some extra flavor and texture. Choose vegetables that complement the flavors of the soup and are easy to prepare.
Easy Vegetable Side Dishes
Steamed broccoli or green beans are a quick and easy option. Simply steam the vegetables until they are tender-crisp and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts, are another delicious option. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and gives them a slightly caramelized flavor.
A simple side salad with cucumbers and tomatoes is a refreshing and healthy choice.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancements
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your vegetable seasonings. A sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can add a lot of flavor. A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice are also great ways to enhance the flavor of vegetables.
Other Creative Side Dish Ideas
While bread, salads, grilled cheese, and vegetables are all excellent choices for side dishes, there are plenty of other creative options to explore.
Beyond the Usual Suspects
A simple quesadilla can add some cheesy goodness to your meal. Fill it with your favorite cheese and vegetables for a satisfying and customizable side dish.
Crackers, such as saltines or oyster crackers, are a classic accompaniment to soup. They provide a satisfying crunch and are perfect for dipping.
A small baked potato, either plain or loaded with your favorite toppings, can add some heartiness to your meal.
Considering the Season
When choosing a side dish, consider the season. In the summer, a light and refreshing salad or a grilled vegetable skewer might be the perfect choice. In the winter, a warm and comforting baked potato or a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes might be more appealing.
Tips for Pairing Success
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when choosing a side dish for chicken noodle soup:
Think about texture. Choose a side dish that provides a contrasting texture to the soup, such as crunch, chewiness, or creaminess.
Consider the flavors. Choose a side dish that complements the flavors of the soup, such as sweetness, acidity, or spiciness.
Balance the meal. Choose a side dish that adds nutritional value to the meal, such as vegetables, fruits, or whole grains.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different side dishes to see what you like best.
Ultimately, the best side dish for chicken noodle soup is the one that you enjoy the most. So, get creative, experiment, and have fun!
The best side dishes complement chicken noodle soup without overpowering it. A simple rule of thumb is to consider what’s already present in the soup (chicken, noodles, vegetables, savory broth) and choose a side that offers something different.
Here’s a table summarizing the side dish options:
| Side Dish | Why it Works | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Crusty Bread (Sourdough, Baguette) | Texture, sopping up broth, tangy flavor | Consider a flavored butter or olive oil |
| Soft Rolls (Dinner Rolls, Crescent Rolls) | Comforting, slightly sweet, easy to eat | Warm them up for extra enjoyment |
| Green Salad with Vinaigrette | Freshness, light acidity, cleanses the palate | Avoid creamy dressings |
| Chopped Vegetable Salad | Crunch, variety of nutrients, refreshing | Choose your favorite vegetables |
| Fruit Salad | Sweetness, acidity, complements savory flavors | Use seasonal fruits |
| Grilled Cheese Sandwich | Comfort food classic, cheesy richness, texture | Experiment with different cheeses and breads |
| Steamed Vegetables (Broccoli, Green Beans) | Healthy, easy to prepare, adds nutrients | Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice |
| Roasted Vegetables (Carrots, Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts) | Sweetness, caramelized flavor, hearty | Roast until tender and slightly browned |
| Quesadilla | Cheesy, customizable, adds heartiness | Fill with cheese and your favorite vegetables |
| Crackers (Saltines, Oyster Crackers) | Crunch, perfect for dipping, simple | A classic and easy option |
| Baked Potato | Hearty, comforting, customizable toppings | Choose your favorite toppings |
Remember that personal preference plays a huge role. Try a few different side dishes to discover your favorite pairing with chicken noodle soup! Enjoy your meal!
What makes a good side dish for chicken noodle soup?
A good side dish for chicken noodle soup complements the soup’s warmth and comforting flavors. It should offer textural contrast, preventing the meal from being overly soft or homogenous. Ideally, the side dish shouldn’t overpower the delicate taste of the soup but enhance the overall dining experience.
Consider sides that provide a refreshing or contrasting element. A crispy salad, a tangy fruit salad, or even a simple piece of crusty bread can be excellent choices. The goal is to create a balanced and satisfying meal by adding complexity and interest to the palate.
Is bread a good side dish for chicken noodle soup? If so, what kind?
Yes, bread is an excellent and classic side dish for chicken noodle soup. It’s perfect for soaking up the broth and adding a satisfying carbohydrate element to the meal. Opt for breads that offer a pleasant texture and subtle flavor, such as crusty bread like a baguette or sourdough.
A simple buttered roll or even a toasted slice of whole wheat bread can also be delicious. Avoid breads that are overly sweet or have strong flavors that could clash with the delicate taste of the soup. The key is to choose bread that complements rather than competes with the chicken noodle soup.
What kind of salad pairs well with chicken noodle soup?
A light and refreshing salad is a wonderful counterpoint to the warm and hearty nature of chicken noodle soup. Consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The acidity of the vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the soup and cleanse the palate.
Another great option is a salad with mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, and a light lemon dressing. Adding a few toasted nuts or seeds can provide a pleasant textural contrast. Avoid heavy, creamy dressings that might overwhelm the delicate flavors of the soup.
Are there any vegetable-based sides that complement chicken noodle soup?
Absolutely! Many vegetable-based side dishes can beautifully complement chicken noodle soup. Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or even a simple side of glazed carrots can add both nutritional value and appealing flavor.
Focus on vegetables with milder flavors that won’t overpower the soup. A simple side of sautéed spinach with garlic or a small serving of roasted root vegetables like parsnips and sweet potatoes can also be excellent choices, providing both nutrients and a pleasing contrast to the soup.
Would fruit salad be a suitable side dish, and if so, what kind of fruits should I include?
Yes, fruit salad can be a surprisingly delightful side dish with chicken noodle soup. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit can offer a refreshing contrast to the savory and comforting flavors of the soup, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Consider a fruit salad with a mix of berries, melon, and grapes. These fruits are typically mild and refreshing, complementing the soup rather than overpowering it. Avoid overly sweet or acidic fruits like pineapple or citrus fruits in large quantities, as they might clash with the delicate flavors of the chicken noodle soup.
Is it okay to serve crackers with chicken noodle soup?
Crackers are a perfectly acceptable and traditional accompaniment to chicken noodle soup. They offer a simple and satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft textures of the soup. Saltine crackers are a classic choice, but other mild-flavored crackers can also work well.
Consider serving a variety of crackers to offer different textures and flavors. Avoid crackers that are heavily seasoned or flavored, as they might compete with the taste of the soup. The crackers should complement the soup’s flavor profile rather than mask it.
What about a grilled cheese sandwich as a side dish?
A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic and comforting side dish that pairs remarkably well with chicken noodle soup. The warm, cheesy bread provides a satisfying complement to the soup, creating a hearty and nostalgic meal. The melted cheese adds richness, while the toasted bread offers textural contrast.
Opt for a simple grilled cheese made with cheddar or American cheese for a familiar and comforting flavor. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Havarti for a more sophisticated taste. However, avoid overly strong or pungent cheeses that might overwhelm the delicate flavors of the chicken noodle soup.