Let’s talk about something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl-chicken noodle soup. But not just any chicken noodle soup-Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup. If you’ve ever wandered through a Wawa convenience store and spotted that iconic, comforting soup steaming in the corner, you know the kind of magic we’re trying to capture here. There’s something about it: the tender chicken, the perfectly cooked noodles, and that rich, savory broth that makes it so irresistible.
This isn’t just a recipe-it’s an experience. Making Wawa-style chicken noodle soup at home means you get to enjoy all that soul-satisfying comfort anytime, with the added bonus of tweaking it exactly how you like. Whether it’s for a rainy day, a quick lunch, or a soul-soothing dinner, this recipe has you covered.
Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Here’s where the magic happens. This recipe is all about simple ingredients elevated with love and patience, creating that classic Wawa taste without stepping foot outside your kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
Before we dive in, let’s gather everything. Freshness is key here because the flavor of each component contributes to the final harmony of the soup.
-
Chicken
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs are juicier, breasts are leaner)
-
Broth
- 6 cups chicken stock (homemade or store-bought, preferably low-sodium for control)
-
Noodles
- 2 cups egg noodles (wide or medium, as Wawa uses slightly thick, hearty noodles)
-
Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced or diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Optional: a clove of garlic, minced for extra aroma
-
Seasonings
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or a small sprig of fresh thyme)
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley (fresh parsley works beautifully)
- Optional: a pinch of turmeric for color and subtle warmth
-
Extras
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing veggies)
Cooking Instructions
Here’s where the conversational part comes in-you’ll feel like you’re right there, spoon in hand, stirring and tasting.
-
Prep Your Chicken And Veggies
- Slice the carrots, dice the celery, and finely chop the onion. If using garlic, mince it now.
-
Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Toss in garlic for the last 30 seconds-don’t let it burn!
-
Cook The Chicken
- Add the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken stock.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Let it cook for 20 minutes (or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
-
Shred The Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred using two forks.
-
Cook The Noodles
- Add the noodles directly to the simmering broth and cook according to package instructions, usually around 7-9 minutes.
-
Combine And Season
- Return shredded chicken to the pot.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Taste and adjust!
-
Serve Hot
- Ladle into bowls and, if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Ingredient Insights
Here’s why each element matters and how it contributes to that signature Wawa flavor:
- Chicken: Thighs give extra richness, but breasts keep it lighter. Slow cooking ensures tenderness.
- Broth: The soul of the soup-homemade stock gives depth, but a good-quality store-bought one works too.
- Noodles: Egg noodles soak up flavor beautifully. Wider noodles feel more authentic to Wawa’s style.
- Vegetables: Carrots and celery provide sweetness and crunch; onions add natural umami.
- Seasonings: Herbs are subtle but essential-they create layers of flavor without overpowering the broth.
Expert Tips
- Don’t overcook noodles: They can turn mushy and steal the show from the chicken.
- Simmer, don’t boil: A gentle simmer keeps chicken juicy and broth clear.
- Layer flavors: Sauté veggies first to bring out natural sweetness before adding liquid.
- Taste as you go: Season gradually. Broth can be salty, and herbs vary in strength.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are some creative twists:
- Spicy Wawa-style: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian twist: Swap chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth.
- Extra veggies: Toss in peas, corn, or spinach for a nutrient boost.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
Final Words
This Wawa chicken noodle soup recipe isn’t just about feeding the body-it’s about feeding the soul. Every bite should evoke comfort, warmth, and a little nostalgia, whether you grew up near a Wawa or are discovering it for the first time. The beauty of making it at home is control: you decide the salt, the noodles, the extras, and the love you stir into it.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup?
The main ingredients typically include cooked shredded chicken, egg noodles, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional herbs such as parsley or thyme.
How Do I Make Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup From Scratch?
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a pot. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add shredded chicken and egg noodles, simmer until noodles are cooked, and season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
Can I Use Leftover Chicken For Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, leftover cooked chicken works perfectly. Just shred it and add it to the broth when the noodles are nearly cooked to avoid overcooking the chicken.
What Type Of Noodles Should I Use For Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup?
Egg noodles are the traditional choice, but you can also use other types like fettuccine or spaghetti broken into smaller pieces. Fresh or dried noodles both work.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup?
It usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time. Using pre-cooked chicken can reduce cooking time to about 20 minutes.
Can Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup Be Frozen?
Yes, it can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the soup without noodles. Cooked noodles can become mushy after freezing and reheating, so add fresh noodles when reheating.
Is Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup Healthy?
Wawa chicken noodle soup is generally nutritious, providing protein from chicken, vitamins from vegetables, and hydration from broth. Adjust salt content for a healthier version.
How Do I Make Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup Taste Like The Restaurant Version?
To replicate the Wawa flavor, use a rich chicken broth, ensure the vegetables are sautéed first, and add a pinch of poultry seasoning or fresh herbs. Simmer gently to blend flavors fully.
Can I Make Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, place all ingredients except noodles in a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add noodles during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
What Are Some Common Variations Of Wawa Chicken Noodle Soup?
Variations include adding corn, peas, or potatoes for extra vegetables, using whole wheat or gluten-free noodles, or enhancing flavor with ginger, garlic, or a splash of lemon juice.