How do I store leftover vegan chicken noodle soup with tofu?

Place the cooled soup in a sealed, covered container and place in the fridge. The soup will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or the microwave for a couple of minutes, or until the desired temperature is reached.

Can I make this homemade vegan chicken noodle soup gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the angel hair or thin spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta shape. Choosing thin or small shapes works out best for this recipe.

Can I prep and freeze this vegan soup for future use?

Definitely! The first step is to make this plant-based soup recipe without adding the tofu. Once cooked and completely cooled, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Reheat by allowing the soup to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat up in a saucepan over medium heat. You can add the baked (or raw) tofu while reheating.

What if I'm soy-free? Will I still be able to make this recipe?

You sure can! Simply leave out the tofu and substitute with ½-1 cup of your favorite cooked beans, plant-based chicken, or even some crushed crackers or croutons would be delicious.

Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup

Name: Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ large yellow onion (diced); 3 medium ribs celery (diced); 3 medium carrots (sliced); 5 medium garlic cloves (minced); ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 8 cups vegetable broth (or equivalent amount of vegetable bouillon and water); 2 bay leaves (optional); 1 package super firm tofu (either cubed or torn into chunks, baked or just tossed in raw); 1 teaspoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon dried dill; 8 ounces spaghetti noodles (angel hair or thin); 2 green onions (sliced); ½ small lemon (cut into wedges or slices (optional))

Looking for a comforting, plant-based twist on a classic? This vegan chicken noodle soup with tofu is the perfect way to enjoy a hearty bowl of goodness without the meat. It’s packed with fresh veggies, tender tofu, and flavorful herbs, making it both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Although this recipe is perfect for fall or winter, this recipe is a breeze to whip up any time of year. Tofu adds a wonderful protein boost, while the noodles and broth make it feel like a cozy, traditional meal. It’s a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or when you’re craving something warm and wholesome.

If you’re a huge soup-lover like we are, make sure to check out this collection of our favorite satisfying vegan soup recipes for every mood and season!

Table of Contents

Why You Must Make This Homemade Vegan Soup

This vegan chicken noodle soup recipe is not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrients! With protein-rich tofu, fresh veggies, and a savory broth, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal. Get ready to learn why this plant-based twist on a classic is so awesome!

Protein-Packed Tofu. Tofu adds a great source of plant-based protein, making the soup hearty and filling. It absorbs the flavors of the broth and spices, giving each bite a delicious, savory taste.
Comforting and Hearty. This soup is a plant-based twist on a classic comfort food. It’s warm, satisfying, and perfect for cozying up with on a chilly day.
Easy to Make. With just a few simple steps and everyday ingredients, this soup is quick and easy to whip up. It’s a great option for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Great for Leftovers. This soup stores well in the fridge, and the flavors only get better over time. It’s perfect for enjoying the next day, or for packing up for lunch.
Wholesome and Nourishing. Packed with fresh veggies, herbs, and noodles, this soup is full of nutrients. It’s a wholesome, feel-good meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

The ingredients in vegan chicken noodle soup with tofu come together to create a comforting and flavorful meal. Each one plays an important role in making the soup hearty, delicious, and satisfying. Let’s take a look at the key ingredients that make this dish so special!

Gathered ingredients for this vegan chicken noodle soup, measured out in individual containers with labels.

Super Firm Tofu – Acts as a protein-rich, plant-based substitute for chicken, absorbing the broth’s flavors while adding a satisfying, chewy texture to the soup. Use cooked chickpeas or chunks of baked tempeh for a similar protein boost and texture. If using firm or extra firm tofu, press it before using.
Thin Spaghetti Noodles – Make the soup hearty and filling, offering the classic comforting texture of traditional noodle soup. Substitute with any pasta of choice, like fettuccine or rotini, or use gluten-free noodles if needed.
Vegetable Broth – The base of the soup, providing rich flavor and tying all the ingredients together. Use homemade vegetable broth for a deeper, umami flavor or plant-based bouillon, diluted with water for a lighter taste.
Veggies (Onion, Carrots, Celery) – These classic soup veggies give the dish sweetness, crunch, and a savory foundation that enhances the broth. Add parsnips, leeks, or zucchini for a new and unique flavor.
Spices (Garlic, Dill, Thyme, Bay) – These pantry staple spices bring warmth, earthiness, and depth to the soup, mimicking traditional chicken noodle soup seasoning. Try rosemary, parsley, or oregano for similar aromatic qualities.

How To Make Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup

Making vegan chicken noodle soup is super easy and satisfying. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a warm, hearty bowl packed with flavor. Let’s break down how to create this comforting, plant-based dish!

Yellow onion, carrots, and celery cooking in a large soup pot.

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies – In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and thyme, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion turns translucent.

Water and vegetable bouillon being added to the pot of cooked vegetables for the soup.

Step 2: Add Broth and Boil – Pour in the vegetable broth (or water with bouillon) and toss in the bay leaves. Bring everything to a rolling boil to develop the flavor.

Cubed tofu in a bowl, tossed with oil and dried dill.

Herbed cubed tofu spread out on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Then, Step 3: Prepare the Tofu – Cube or tear the tofu, toss with olive oil and dried dill, and bake at 400°F for 15 minutes. (You can also add the raw tofu directly to the soup if you prefer.)

A pot of vegan chicken noodle soup with angel hair spaghetti added to the pot.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta and Combine – Add the uncooked pasta to the boiling broth and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Remove from heat, discard the bay leaves, and stir in the tofu. Garnish with green onions and a slice of lemon before serving.

Serving Tips and Suggestions for Cozy Noodle Soup

Serving this easy vegan chicken noodle soup can be just as fun as making it! With a few simple tips, you can elevate this comforting dish and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will take your soup next level:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top of each bowl for a burst of flavor. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a pop of color to your soup.
Serve with Savory Bread – Pair your soup with a slice of crusty rosemary bread or a warm slice of focaccia bread. This makes for a perfect dipping companion and adds a satisfying crunch to your meal. Or, better yet, dish up your soup in a bread bowl!
Add Extra Veggies – Boost the nutrition by adding more veggies like baby spinach, chopped kale, green peas, or bell peppers. Toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Use Noodle Alternatives – Experiment with different noodle types, such as whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You can also try spiralized zucchini or rice noodles for a fun twist. How about some wild or white rice instead of pasta?
Store for Later – Make a big batch and store leftovers in an airtight container. This soup keeps well in the fridge, making it easy to enjoy a quick, healthy meal throughout the week!