Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 (4-lb.) whole chicken
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 dried bay leaves
• 1 head garlic, halved
• 6 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 carrots, thinly sliced
• 4 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 pound egg noodles
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine chicken, broth, bay leaves, garlic, 2 teaspoons salt, and 8 cups water in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and simmer until chicken is cooked through, 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from heat. Transfer chicken to a cutting board. Strain stock into a large bowl and discard solids. Remove meat from chicken and shred; discard skin and bones.
2. Wipe the pot clean. Melt butter over medium-high. Add carrots, celery, onion, and thyme and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8 minutes. Add reserved stock and remaining 4 teaspoons salt; bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Add noodles; cook according to package directions. Remove from heat and stir in shredded chicken, parsley, and pepper.