Chicken noodle soup is more than a meal – it’s a source of comfort that warms you up from the inside. But what happens when you’ve cooked too much to eat in one sitting? Learning how to store your chicken noodle soup properly makes sure you get to enjoy the soup with its flavors preserved fully and safely.
Soup with chicken noodles is a classic comfort food that many of us ate as kids. It’s warm and comforting, and the smell of herbs and chicken fills your kitchen. But like any homemade soup, the best way to keep your chicken noodle soup fresh and avoid waste is to store it correctly.
This article will show you how to store leftover chicken noodle soup in the best way, whether you want to freeze it for longer term or put it in the fridge for a few days. If you do these easy things, you can have tasty chicken noodle soup for lunch or dinner whenever you want.
Choose the Right Storage Containers
The first step is choosing appropriate airtight containers for storing your soup. Glass and BPA-free plastic containers work best. Make sure to pick containers with tight fitting lids to prevent spills in the fridge or freezer. Allow 1-2 inches of headspace at the top for expansion.
For freezing, opt for rigid plastic containers or heavy-duty freezer bags designed specifically for freezing. They provide the most protection against freezer burn. Freezer bags allow you to store soup flat to save space. Make sure to remove as much air as possible and seal tightly.
Cool the Soup Completely Before Storing
It’s critical to cool the soup down quickly before refrigerating or freezing. Place the soup pot in an ice bath to rapidly cool it. To speed up cooling, transfer soup to shallow containers to increase surface area
The temperature inside your fridge will rise because of the hot soup, which could hurt other foods. Within 2 hours, the soup should cool to room temperature. Within 4 hours, it should be cooled to 40°F or less.
Once cooled, immediately transfer to airtight storage containers. Never let soup sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerate Properly
Chicken noodle soup can be kept for 3–4 days in the fridge for short-term storage. Make sure the containers are clearly marked with the name of the soup and the date it was made. Soup should always be kept in the back of the fridge, never in the door.
Maintain a consistent 40°F temperature. If the fridge is opened frequently, soup may only last 2-3 days before quality declines. Don’t go by appearance or smell alone. When in doubt, throw it out.
Freeze for Long Term Storage
Freezing is ideal for storing chicken noodle soup for 2-3 months. Portion soup into single servings before freezing for easy reheating. Flatten freezer bags to freeze soup in a thin layer for faster thawing.
Avoid storing soup longer than 3 months as flavor and texture will deteriorate. For the best quality, use frozen soup within 1 month.
Thaw Safely
Always thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator, allowing 12-24 hours. Microwaving can lead to uneven cooking. Don’t thaw at room temperature as the outer layer could enter the danger zone temperature while the inner layer remains frozen.
Once thawed, use within 3-4 days. Never refreeze soup after it has been thawed as this increases risk of bacterial growth. Make sure thawed soup reaches 165°F when reheating.
Additional Tips
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Adding noodles separately when reheating prevents them from getting mushy.
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Frozen soup may need added seasoning, broth or cream to boost flavor after thawing.
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Don’t use metal containers for storage as they can react with acidic soup.
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Check soup regularly for signs of spoilage like off smells, texture changes or mold.
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Vacuum sealing or freezing in ice cube trays can extend freezer storage time.
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Store soup in insulated cooler with ice packs for picnics or potlucks, not exceeding 2 hours.
Storing Chicken Noodle Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these tipsto keep your chicken noodle soup fresh and delicious.
Never put hot soup straight into the fridge, as it’s an environment for bacterial growth. There are two ways you can go about this.
- Put your pot of soup in an ice bath. Fill a sink or large bowl with ice water. Stir the soup occasionally to help it cool faster.
- Cut into pieces. The smaller the pieces, the faster they will cool. Transfer the soup into smaller containers to cool faster. Smaller portions also make reheating easier later on.
This popular soup is made with chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles. Together, they give the soup its hearty flavor. After cooking or ordering the dish, you can store the soup as is, or choose to separate the ingredients. For example, you can keep the noodles separate from the broth to keep them chewy.
Veselka’s chicken noodle soup comes in a pint (16oz) and a quart (32oz) size. You can store the delicious soup as is or divide it into smaller portions, depending on how you like to reheat it and how much space you have. To illustrate, you can portion the quart into 16oz or 8oz portions to cater to full or light meals.
There are multiple container choices for your soup. Storing the soup in its original container is always the most convenient option. Veselka’s containers are the perfect size for your portions.
You can also opt for glass containers, plastic containers, or plastic baggies for smaller portions.
Labeling the date your soup is stored is an effective practice for easy tracking. This easy step helps you keep track of how long the soup has been stored, so you make sure you eat it within a safe time frame, whether you didn’t finish your soup all at once or ordered a pint of Veselka’s frozen chicken noodle soup to enjoy over the next few weeks.
Enjoying the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
Proper storage and reheating techniques ensure that each of Veselka’s savory, hearty bite is preserved perfectly. Veselka’s chicken noodle soup has warmed the hearts, souls, and bellies of many generations. This dish has been held close to heart by many — and it has kept people coming back time and time again.
Want to share the love? You can also send Veselka’s chicken noodle soup to friends and family who are feeling under the weather. A warm bowl of this time-tested remedy is the perfect way to show you care.
Do you want to experience a hearty bowl of soupy perfection? Try Veselka today and taste the difference.
You can also send Veselka’s chicken noodle soup to friends and family who are feeling under the weather. A warm bowl of this time-tested remedy is the perfect way to show you care.
Canning THE BEST Homemade Chicken Soup | Meal in a Jar | Long Time Food Storage
FAQ
How do you store leftover chicken noodle soup?
Use airtight containers: BPA-free plastic containers, glass jars (leave room for expansion if freezing), or quart-size freezer bags all work well. May 17, 2023.
How long can chicken noodle soup be left unrefrigerated?
Food should not be at room temperature for more than two hours. You can put shallow containers or small amounts of hot food right into the fridge, or you can quickly cool them down in ice or cold water before putting them in the fridge.
How long should you keep homemade chicken soup in the fridge?
The Shelf Life of Chicken Noodle Soup Generally, homemade soup lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. This rule works for any kind of soup, whether you used chicken thighs, a whole chicken, or even rotisserie chicken to give it a hearty, rich flavor.
Should you let chicken noodle soup cool before refrigerating?
Cool the Soup: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the soup from becoming watery. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the soup to airtight containers. Refrigerate: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
How to store chicken noodle soup?
The first step in storing chicken noodle soup is to ensure that it is properly prepared and cooked. Follow your preferred recipe or use a pre-made soup as a base, and add in your desired ingredients such as chicken, noodles, vegetables, and seasonings.
How to choose a storage container for chicken noodle soup?
Choosing the right storage container is key to ensuring the freshness and quality of your chicken noodle soup. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a container: Material: Opt for containers made of high-quality glass or plastic. These materials are durable, non-toxic, and safe for storing food.
How long can chicken noodle soup stay in the refrigerator?
Most refrigerators have a designated area for storing soups and other perishable items. The chicken noodle soup can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you smell something bad, see if the color is off, or feel something strange, now is the time to check for signs of spoilage.
Can chicken noodle soup be frozen?
Freezing options allow for extended storage of chicken noodle soup, but it’s important to use the frozen soup within 2-3 months for the best quality. Reheating the soup with care ensures a delicious and satisfying meal for future enjoyment. Before we get started, let’s gather the necessary ingredients for storing chicken noodle soup:
How long does chicken noodle soup last in a jar?
Unopened chicken noodle soup in a jar can last quite a long time if stored properly. Typically, commercially canned or jarred chicken noodle soup can last 1-2 years past the expiration date on the label if kept in a cool, dry pantry. The airtight seal prevents bacteria and spoilage, ensuring the soup remains safe to eat.
How long does chicken noodle soup last after expiration date?
The shelf life of chicken noodle soup after its expiration date varies depending on storage conditions and the type of soup. Canned or jarred chicken noodle soup can remain safe to eat for 1-2 years past the expiration date if the container is unopened and stored in a dry place.