Magic Chicken Soup

Alright, so the soup doesn't actually have magical powers, but it sure makes our family feel a whole lot better when we're in need of some comfort in a bowl. I created this recipe one day when I needed a liquid hug. :) Feel free to tweak it, but don't mess with the onions and garlic too much or you'll...well, just leave those alone. Here it is:

1/2 tsp rosemary
1/2 tsp thyme
1 bay leaf
1 tsp parsley 2 or 3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 sm or med onion, chopped fine
3 carrots, thinly chopped
3 stalks of celery, thinly chopped
1 lg potato, cut into small chunks
4-5 chicken tenders OR 1 whole chicken breast, cut into small pieces
1/2 c noodles OR 1/2 c rice
2-3 tsp butter
3Tbsp chicken bouillon ( I use Chicken Soup Base that I buy from Costco. You could use bouillon cubes, just be sure to add the right amount for about 8 cups of water.)
8 c water
salt and pepper to taste

In a large pot, simmer the chicken, about 3 cups of water, and the bouillon on med-low eat until the chicken is cooked. (This should take about 15-20 minutes) While chicken is cooking, saute the onions in the butter just until they start to become clear. Add the garlic, and saute for a minute or two longer stirring often so you don't burn the garlic. When the chicken is done cooking, add the remaining ingredients to the pot, including the onions and garlic. Let all the ingredients cook together on low-medium heat until the vegetables are fork tender. (This usually takes about 30 minutes.)
Note: The longer the rice or noodles cook with the soup, the thicker the broth will be, so if you like a thinner broth, leave the rice or noodles out until the last 15 minutes or so.
Enjoy! :)