While chicken noodle soup is often the main event, choosing the perfect accompaniment can be a challenge. Do you opt for a tried-and-true classic like crusty bread, or do you want to mix things up with something more innovative? Perhaps you’re looking for a side that’s both filling and light, or maybe you just want it all – crunch, freshness, and a touch of indulgence. The good news is that I’ve got you covered.
As one of the coziest winter meals around, chicken noodle soup has a way of warming hearts and soothing sore throats. And while the main course may be the star of the show, the supporting actors – aka the sides – are just as crucial. So, if you’re looking to elevate your next chicken noodle soup experience, consider adding one (or two, or three…) of these tasty side dishes to the mix.
Saltine Crackers
While traditional chicken noodle soup is already a light and satisfying option, you may want to consider adding a crunchy texture to elevate the dish. Saltine crackers are a classic choice that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the soup, providing a pleasant contrast in texture without overpowering the meal.
For a more adventurous approach, you can opt for flavored crackers that complement the soup’s flavors.
Cheesy crackers add a rich and indulgent touch, while rosemary and olive oil crackers bring a herbaceous and aromatic note. Alternatively, sour cream and chive crackers introduce a tangy and creamy element to the dish.
The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize your chicken noodle soup experience with a personalized twist.
Pretzel Rolls
While crackers provide a satisfying salty flavor, pretzel rolls offer a more substantial and filling experience. By combining the softness of pretzels with the convenience of a bun, pretzel rolls add a delightful twist to any meal. The textured and chewy nature of these rolls also enhances the overall dining experience. With their ease of preparation and irresistibly fluffy texture, pretzel rolls are sure to elevate your soup or other dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Grilled Vegetable Panini
The harmonious union of soup and sandwiches is a timeless favorite for many. The added texture and subtle nutty flavors from the grilled bread provide an unbeatable combination. This pairing also allows for a delightful balance of flavors, as the richness of the buttery bread is offset by the freshness of the accompanying veggies.
A vegetable panini is particularly effective in this regard, with its medley of colorful bell peppers, squash, and mushrooms creating a symphony of flavors that will elevate your meal to new heights.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
While classic combinations are always a hit, grilled cheese can also bring out the best in chicken noodle soup. For a more refined twist, consider substituting brie for cheddar – its rich creaminess provides a delightful contrast to the light, soothing broth. To take it to the next level, add some sliced apples and figs to create a truly indulgent lunch experience.
Ham and Cheese Rollups
Elevate your classic soup and sandwich pairing by introducing a delectable baked ham and cheese rollup. This straightforward recipe yields impressive results, showcasing the harmonious union of pre-made pizza dough, tender deli ham, and melted mozzarella. With its impressive appearance and satisfying flavor profile, this easy-to-prepare rollup seamlessly complements chicken noodle soup, creating a well-rounded and indulgent meal experience.
Bruschetta
When you add bruschetta to your soup, it’s not just about the bread – it’s about elevating the entire meal with bold, punchy flavors. The crunchy texture of the toasted bread provides the perfect contrast to the soft, comforting broth, while the tangy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and melted cheese add a depth and richness that takes the dish to the next level.
Cold Cut Deli Sandwich
Looking for a refreshing contrast to warm chicken noodle soup? Look no further! A satisfying hogie roll filled with an assortment of deli meats, cheeses, and condiments is the perfect accompaniment. While I personally adore an Italian-style sandwich piled high with salami, pepperoni, provolone, and a tangy mustard, there are countless other options to suit your taste.
From classic turkey and pepper jack combinations to simple yet satisfying BLT sandwiches, each one promises a delightful contrast to the warm, comforting bowl of soup.
Mashed Potato Puffs
Comfort foods often evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, much like grandma’s classic chicken noodle soup. However, when you combine the two, it may not be the most appealing pairing. To add some excitement to your meal, you need a mix of textures that complement each other. Enter Mashed Potato Puffs – bite-sized treats filled with mashed potato, cheese, chives, and bacon bits that offer a delightful contrast in texture to traditional comfort foods.
The combination is reminiscent of potato soup, but presented in a warm, flaky puff format that pairs perfectly with a bowl of chicken noodle goodness.
Easy Baked Zucchini
For those adhering to low-carb diets or watching their carb intake, it’s common to reach a point where the noodles in one’s soup become overwhelming. Fortunately, there is a way to replicate the satisfying texture and flavor of cheesy toast without compromising on carbs. One effective solution is to slice up some zucchini, smother it with cheese, and bake until golden brown.
This guilt-free side dish is sure to hit the spot for anyone seeking a low-carb alternative that still packs plenty of flavor.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
Elevate your home to a cozy cafe atmosphere by pairing a soup with a satisfying salad combo! To replicate the authentic cafe experience, you’ll need to go beyond a basic green salad. A hearty butternut squash component adds not only flavor but also nutritional value to the dish.
The perfect blend is achieved by combining the roasted squash with fresh arugula, crunchy candied walnuts, tangy goat cheese, sweet beets, and tart dried cranberries.
The result is a mouth-watering and filling salad that will leave you feeling satisfied and cozy, just like your favorite cafe.
Italian Chopped Salad
Italians have mastered the art of satisfying hunger with their bold and hearty salads, making them the perfect accompaniment to a light yet flavorful soup. To create this culinary delight, start by combining Romaine lettuce, cucumbers, chickpeas, onions, pepperoncinis, and your preferred cheese. This salad is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its diverse array of flavors and textures, offering a refreshing respite from the norm.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
One of my go-to strategies for incorporating vitamins and nutrients into a meal is by grilling vegetables on skewers. This not only adds texture but also provides a delightful contrast to soft, moist noodles, offering the perfect crunch. Additionally, you can elevate the flavors by dipping your skewers directly into your soup, allowing the juices to meld together in harmony.
