• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter for richer flavor)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• 2 bay leaves
• 6 oz egg noodles (or small pasta)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Optional Enhancements: Add heavy cream or half-and-half for creaminess, use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or include spinach and kale for extra nutrition.