This soup combines shredded cooked chicken, vegetables, and noodles simmered in a rich, seasoned broth. It’s light yet hearty, using basic ingredients like carrots, celery, leeks, and herbs. Mary Berry’s version focuses on simple, natural flavours without unnecessary complexity—making it a timeless classic for everyday meals.
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery sticks, diced
1 medium leek, cleaned and sliced
1.5 litres chicken stock (homemade or low-sodium)
200g cooked shredded chicken (from roast or poached chicken)
120g egg noodles (or any thin noodles)
1 tsp dried thyme (or a sprig of fresh thyme)
1 bay leaf
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedge, for serving (optional)
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and leek. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Pour in the chicken stock, then add thyme and the bay leaf. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
Add the noodles to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually 6–8 minutes) until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with a wedge of lemon for brightness.
Find it online: https://maryberrycooks.co.uk/mary-berry-chicken-noodle-soup/