Heat a large pot over medium-high heat, adding the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 2 garlic cloves
Stir in the dried oregano, thyme, chicken broth, water, and bay leaf. Add the chicken breasts to the pot, and bring everything to a slow simmer. Cook the chicken for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 bay leaf, 2 cups chicken broth, 6 cups water, 2 chicken breasts
Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, then add the egg noodles. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the noodles are al dente.
4 cups egg noodles, Salt and pepper
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a bright, fresh finish.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, 1 lemon