Copycat Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when it tastes just like the one from your favorite restaurant. This Copycat Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle Soup brings that beloved Canadian cafe experience right into your kitchen, and you don’t need to be a professional chef to pull it off.

Ease of Preparation

This copycat chicken noodle soup comes together in just 45 minutes from start to finish. With only 20 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table faster than ordering takeout. The steps are straightforward and beginner-friendly, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend afternoons when you crave something comforting without the hassle.

Health Benefits

Beyond its comforting taste, this Tim Hortons chicken noodle soup copycat packs impressive nutritional value. Each serving delivers 30 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber, and a generous dose of Vitamin A (6078 IU) from the carrots and vegetables. The homemade version also lets you control the sodium content, making it a smarter choice than many canned alternatives. For more insight into the wellness benefits of chicken soup, research shows chicken soup contains nutrients that support overall health.

Versatility

Whether you’re feeding picky toddlers, adapting for gluten-free family members, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe adapts beautifully. You can swap proteins, change up the pasta, adjust seasonings, and even make it vegetarian with a few simple substitutions. It’s a flexible foundation that works for countless dietary needs.

Distinctive Flavor

What sets this copycat Tim Hortons chicken noodle soup apart is its rich, savory depth thanks to the yeast extract (Marmite), which adds that signature umami punch. The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and a splash of vinegar creates a perfectly balanced broth that tastes like it simmered all day, even though it comes together quickly.

Essential Ingredients for Copycat Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle Soup

Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference when recreating that restaurant-quality taste at home. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting soup:

Main Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter – Creates a rich, savory base for sauteing the vegetables and adds depth to the broth
• 2 ribs celery, diced – Provides aromatic flavor and pleasant crunch in every bite
• 3 medium carrots, diced – Adds natural sweetness, vibrant color, and essential vitamins
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – Brings mild sweetness and extra nutrition to the soup
• 1 cup green peas – Contributes pops of color and gentle sweetness
• 10 cups chicken stock – Forms the flavorful foundation; homemade is recommended for best results
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds subtle warmth and enhances other flavors
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Delivers savory depth without the texture of raw onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the broth with aromatic garlic flavor throughout
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley) – Brings herbaceous notes and lovely garnish
• 1 teaspoon yeast extract – The secret ingredient that adds umami depth and restaurant-quality richness
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to your taste preference
• 1 tablespoon vinegar – Brightens the overall flavor profile with gentle acidity
• 1 cup baby shell pasta – The signature pasta shape that holds broth beautifully
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded – Provides hearty protein and satisfying texture
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Creates the silky, slightly thickened broth texture

Special Dietary Options

Vegan: Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter, swap chicken stock for vegetable broth, omit the chicken or substitute with chickpeas or tofu, and skip the yeast extract if it’s not vegan-certified (some brands are).

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta like rice shells or corn-based noodles, and verify your chicken stock is gluten-free. Replace cornstarch with arrowroot powder if preferred.

Low-calorie: Reduce butter to 1 tablespoon, use boneless skinless chicken breast, and increase vegetables while slightly reducing pasta. The soup is already just 329 calories per serving!

How to Prepare the Perfect Copycat Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle Soup: Step-by-Step Guide

Making this restaurant-style soup at home is easier than you might think. Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil and cook the baby shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 7-9 minutes. You want the pasta slightly firm since it will continue softening when combined with the hot soup. Once cooked, strain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking if you’re not serving immediately.

Pro tip: Cooking the pasta separately prevents it from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy. This is especially important if you plan to store leftovers!

Step 2: Saute the Vegetables

In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is bubbling, add the diced celery and carrots. Saute these vegetables for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. The celery should become fragrant and the carrots should start to soften slightly around the edges.

Next, add the diced red bell pepper and 1 cup of green peas to the pot. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes. These vegetables add wonderful texture and sweetness to your copycat Tim Hortons chicken noodle soup. The peppers should be slightly softened but still retain some crunch for texture contrast.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Broth

Now it’s time to create that signature restaurant-style broth. Pour in the 10 cups of chicken stock, preferably homemade for the richest flavor. Add the seasonings: 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon yeast extract, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh).

Give everything a good stir and taste the broth. Add the 1 teaspoon of salt, but remember you can always add more later. The yeast extract might already contribute some saltiness depending on the brand. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Vinegar

Stir in the 1 tablespoon of vinegar and the 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken. The vinegar is crucial because it brightens all the flavors and adds that subtle acidity that makes the soup taste more complex and balanced. The chicken just needs to heat through since it’s already cooked, so 2-3 minutes of simmering is plenty.

If you’re starting with raw chicken instead of cooked, you’ll need to adjust the timing. Dice raw chicken breast or thigh meat into bite-sized pieces and add them during step 3 when you add the broth. Let the raw chicken simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Thicken the Broth

This step gives your Tim Hortons chicken noodle soup copycat that silky, restaurant-quality texture. In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water. Stir until completely smooth with no lumps. This mixture is called a slurry, and it’s essential for proper thickening.

Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering soup while stirring constantly. Continue stirring for 1-2 minutes as the broth returns to a simmer. You’ll notice it thickening to a lovely, slightly velvety consistency. Taste the soup one final time and adjust any seasonings if needed. Some people like a bit more black pepper or an extra pinch of salt.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Now comes the best part! Divide your cooked pasta among serving bowls. Ladle the hot soup generously over the pasta, making sure each bowl gets plenty of vegetables, chicken, and that luscious broth. Serve immediately while steaming hot. You can garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color.

this …

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Copycat Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle Soup

One of the best things about homemade soup is how easily you can adapt it to fit different dietary needs and preferences. Let’s explore some smart substitutions that keep the delicious flavor while accommodating various requirements.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If you want to switch up the protein in your copycat chicken noodle soup, you have plenty of options. Rotisserie chicken from the grocery store is fantastic because it’s already seasoned and incredibly tender. Costco rotisserie chickens are especially popular for their juicy meat and value. Simply remove the skin and shred about 3-4 cups of meat.

For a lighter option, poached chicken breast works beautifully. Season the raw breast with salt and pepper, then simmer it in the broth for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Remove, shred, and return to the pot. You can also use leftover turkey from holiday meals, which gives a similar texture with a slightly different flavor profile.

Vegetarians can substitute the chicken with chickpeas, white beans, or cubed extra-firm tofu. If using tofu, press it first to remove excess moisture, then cube and saute until golden before adding to the soup. Each cup of chickpeas adds about 15 grams of plant-based protein. For more information on the nutritional benefits of chicken as a protein source, chicken provides essential nutrients that support a healthy diet.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

The vegetable mix in this recipe is versatile and can change based on what’s in season or what your family prefers. Don’t like peas? Swap them for corn kernels or chopped green beans. Want more greens? Add chopped spinach or kale in the last 2 minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt perfectly without becoming mushy.

For the seasonings, feel free to experiment. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill can add wonderful aromatic notes. If you don’t have yeast extract (Marmite), you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of Better than Bouillon vegetable base, a dash of soy sauce mixed with Worcestershire sauce, or even miso paste. Each alternative adds that savory umami depth that makes the broth taste restaurant-quality.

The pasta is another easy element to customize. While baby shells are traditional in this Tim Hortons copycat, any short pasta works well. Try ditalini, small elbows, orzo, or even broken spaghetti pieces. For a low-carb version, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or extra vegetables. If you enjoyed our creamy chicken noodle soup, you’ll love experimenting with these variations too.

Mastering Copycat Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle Soup: Advanced Tips and Variations

Ready to take your soup-making skills to the next level? These expert tips and creative variations will help you achieve restaurant-quality results every single time.

Pro Cooking Techniques

The secret to an exceptional copycat Tim Hortons chicken noodle soup lies in the details. First, always saute your vegetables in butter rather than oil for that rich, comforting flavor. Don’t rush this step; let the vegetables develop a bit of color and release their natural sugars.

When making the cornstarch slurry, always use cold water and mix thoroughly before adding it to the hot soup. Never dump dry cornstarch directly into boiling liquid, as it will clump immediately. Add the slurry slowly while stirring constantly, and let the soup return to a full simmer for at least 1 minute to activate the thickening power.

Another professional tip is to taste and adjust seasonings at multiple stages. The flavor profile changes as you add ingredients, so that initial salt measurement might need tweaking after the chicken and vinegar go in.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe nails the classic Tim Hortons flavor, you can easily create delicious variations. For a lemon chicken soup, add the juice of one lemon along with the vinegar and throw in some fresh dill. This gives the soup a bright, Mediterranean twist.

Want a spicier version? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeno when sauteing the vegetables. For an herbed variation, add fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs during the simmering phase, then remove them before serving. You could also stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a luxurious, creamy variation.

Presentation Tips

Restaurant presentation makes even simple soup feel special. Use wide, shallow bowls that show off the colorful vegetables and tender chicken. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of vibrant green. A grind of fresh black pepper right before serving adds visual appeal and aromatic freshness.

Serve your soup with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For entertaining, consider setting up a soup bar with various toppings so guests can customize their bowls.

Make-Ahead Options

This soup is perfect for meal prep and busy schedules. You can make the entire soup (minus the pasta) up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve overnight as they have more time to meld together.

For longer storage, freeze the soup base without pasta for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat on the stovetop, and cook fresh pasta to serve alongside.

How to Store Copycat Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle Soup: Best Practices

Proper storage ensures your homemade soup stays fresh and delicious for days (or even months) after cooking. Here’s everything you need to know about storing and reheating your copycat Tim Hortons chicken noodle soup.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Store your soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The key to maintaining quality is keeping the pasta separate from the broth and vegetables. When pasta sits in liquid, it continues absorbing moisture and becomes unpleasantly soft and mushy.

If you’ve already combined everything, don’t worry; the soup is still safe to eat, but the pasta texture won’t be as good. For best results, store leftover pasta in its own container and combine portions when reheating.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

This chicken noodle soup freezes beautifully, but with one important caveat: leave out the pasta. Pasta becomes grainy and mushy after freezing and thawing. Instead, freeze just the soup base in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 2-3 months.

Label each container with the date and contents so you can easily find it later. Lay freezer bags flat to freeze for space-efficient storage and faster thawing. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Reheating for Best Quality

The stovetop is the best method for reheating this soup. Pour the thawed or refrigerated soup into a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a gentle simmer. If you stored the pasta separately, either add it to the hot soup for the last minute of heating or warm it briefly in boiling water.

For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely to prevent splatters. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot throughout. Add a splash of water or extra broth if the soup seems too thick after storage. Always ensure the soup reaches 165°F internally for food safety before serving.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Copycat Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle Soup

Copycat Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle Soup

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

🍲🐔 Hearty copycat chicken noodle soup – comforting broth loaded with veggies and tender chicken!
🥄 Quick 45-minute homemade version brighter with vinegar, perfect for cold days or sick days!

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

– 3 tablespoons butter

– 2 ribs celery, diced

– 3 medium carrots, diced

– 1 red bell pepper, diced

– 1 cup green peas

– 10 cups chicken stock

– 1 teaspoon black pepper

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley)

– 1 teaspoon yeast extract

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1 tablespoon vinegar

– 1 cup baby shell pasta

– 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1-Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente Bring a medium pot of water to a boil and cook the baby shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 7-9 minutes. You want the pasta slightly firm since it will continue softening when combined with the hot soup. Once cooked, strain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking if you’re not serving immediately.

2-Step 2: Saute the Vegetables In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is bubbling, add the diced celery and carrots. Saute these vegetables for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. The celery should become fragrant and the carrots should start to soften slightly around the edges. Next, add the diced red bell pepper and 1 cup of green peas to the pot. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes. These vegetables add wonderful texture and sweetness to your copycat Tim Hortons chicken noodle soup. The peppers should be slightly softened but still retain some crunch for texture contrast.

3-Step 3: Build the Flavorful Broth Now it’s time to create that signature restaurant-style broth. Pour in the 10 cups of chicken stock, preferably homemade for the richest flavor. Add the seasonings: 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon yeast extract, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh). Give everything a good stir and taste the broth. Add the 1 teaspoon of salt, but remember you can always add more later. The yeast extract might already contribute some saltiness depending on the brand. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

4-Step 4: Add the Chicken and Vinegar Stir in the 1 tablespoon of vinegar and the 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken. The vinegar is crucial because it brightens all the flavors and adds that subtle acidity that makes the soup taste more complex and balanced. The chicken just needs to heat through since it’s already cooked, so 2-3 minutes of simmering is plenty. If you’re starting with raw chicken instead of cooked, you’ll need to adjust the timing. Dice raw chicken breast or thigh meat into bite-sized pieces and add them during step 3 when you add the broth. Let the raw chicken simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

5-Step 5: Thicken the Broth This step gives your Tim Hortons chicken noodle soup copycat that silky, restaurant-quality texture. In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water. Stir until completely smooth with no lumps. This mixture is called a slurry, and it’s essential for proper thickening. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering soup while stirring constantly. Continue stirring for 1-2 minutes as the broth returns to a simmer. You’ll notice it thickening to a lovely, slightly velvety consistency. Taste the soup one final time and adjust any seasonings if needed. Some people like a bit more black pepper or an extra pinch of salt.

6-Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Now comes the best part! Divide your cooked pasta among serving bowls. Ladle the hot soup generously over the pasta, making sure each bowl gets plenty of vegetables, chicken, and that luscious broth. Serve immediately while steaming hot. You can garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color.

Last Step:

Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.

Notes

🍝 Cook pasta separately; store apart from soup to prevent sogginess.
🍲 Homemade chicken stock elevates flavor; watch salt if using base.
🧂 Yeast extract adds rich umami depth – find it in grocery stores.

• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soups
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 329 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 652 mg
• Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 63 mg