Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until lightly browned. Transfer to a plate.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
Return the chicken to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes.
Stir in the egg noodles and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until tender.
Remove the bay leaf and stir in the chopped fresh parsley and lemon juice, if using.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve hot with crackers or crusty bread.