Introduction to Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Everyone needs a comforting hug in a bowl, especially during the busy weeknights. That’s where my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup comes in! Picture this: a savory, creamy delight simmering gently on your stove, filling your home with warmth and tantalizing aromas. Whether you’re juggling work, kids’ activities, or just the chaos of life, this soup is the perfect solution. Not only is it quick and simple to whip up, but it also turns any meal into a cherished gathering. Let’s embrace the magic of homemade goodness with this cozy favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a lifesaver for anyone short on time. It’s not just quick to make but brimming with rich flavors that warm the soul. Picture your family gathered around the table, savoring every spoonful. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy, seamlessly transforming an ordinary dinner into something special. Plus, it’s a complete meal, packed with nutrients to keep everyone energized!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Making my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is simple and rewarding! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This is the base for sautéing the veggies and adding depth of flavor.
- Chopped yellow onion: Adds sweetness and aroma, simmering beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Sliced or diced carrots: These bring a pop of color and a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- Sliced or diced celery: It contributes to the classic soup flavor, adding a nice crunch.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Garlic amps up the taste and gives that comforting smell while cooking.
- All-purpose flour: Used to create a roux, it thickens the soup while enhancing the flavor.
- Fine salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the taste, feel free to adjust to your liking!
- Dried thyme leaves or fresh thyme: Herbs that infuse the broth with a lovely earthiness.
- Dried oregano or fresh oregano: Another layer of flavor, bringing warmth and familiarity to the mix.
- Reduced sodium chicken broth: The heart of the soup, providing a rich, savory base. Go for low sodium for a healthier option!
- Peeled and diced potato: These add creaminess and a hearty texture to the dish.
- Shredded or chopped cooked chicken: Feel free to use leftovers or store-bought rotisserie chicken for a speedier meal!
- Half-and-half or whole milk: This is where the creaminess comes in, making each bite comforting and rich.
- Uncooked wide egg noodles or other dry pasta: The filling element that turns this soup into a complete meal.
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional garnish): A beautiful touch that brings freshness and a pop of color to your presentation.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can also find inspiration for your next cooking adventure!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Now for the fun part — making this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup! Just follow these simple steps, and soon enough, you’ll have a pot of warmth ready to be devoured.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. The moment it sizzles, toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until everything is softened. The inviting aroma will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water!
Step 2: Make the Roux
Once your veggies are tender, add the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Stir everything together and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the flavors. This roux is key to achieving that luscious, creamy texture!
Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes
Next, it’s time to pour in the reduced sodium chicken broth, followed by the diced potatoes. Give it a quick stir to combine. Raise the heat to medium-high and let it come to a boil. No need to stir during this boil, just let it work its magic for about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer
Once boiled, reduce the heat to medium-low. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer for 25 minutes. This is when the flavors meld beautifully, allowing the potatoes to become tender. Stir occasionally and taste; feel free to adjust your seasonings as you see fit!
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Noodles
After the big simmer, it’s time to stir in the shredded chicken and half-and-half (or whole milk). Toss in the uncooked wide egg noodles too. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring gently until the noodles are cooked al dente and the soup has thickened. Voila, the creamy consistency we all crave!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, ladle your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish it with fresh thyme leaves. Serve warm and watch your family dig in happily. Oh, the joy of homemade soup is simply unmatched!
Tips for Success
- Prep all your ingredients before starting. It saves time and mess.
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a super quick fix.
- Season to taste throughout cooking. Don’t be shy — it makes a difference!
- For extra creaminess, add a splash more half-and-half at the end.
- Consider using fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor punch.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for even heat distribution. A sturdy saucepan works too.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring. A whisk can help if you prefer a thicker soup.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping vegetables. A food processor can speed things up!
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy, though eyeballing works in a pinch!
Variations of Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Herbed Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an added layer of flavor that brightens the dish.
- Vegetable-Loaded Version: Toss in additional veggies like peas, corn, or bell peppers for a colorful and nutrient-packed twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free noodles or rice for those avoiding gluten.
- Creamy Tomato Chicken Noodle Soup: Mix in some crushed tomatoes for a tangy flavor that enhances the soup’s richness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat in their comfort food!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Warm crusty bread: A slice of sourdough or a baguette pairs perfectly for dipping.
- Simple side salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Herbal tea or white wine: Complement the flavors with a soothing cup of tea or a glass of crisp white wine.
- Festive presentation: Serve in colorful bowls and garnish with extra thyme for a delightful touch.
FAQs about Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
As you dive into making this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup, you might have some questions pop up. Here are some answers to the most common queries!
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh? Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and work wonderfully in this soup. Just toss them in with the broth.
How can I make this soup healthier? Opt for low-fat milk instead of half-and-half, and use a higher ratio of vegetables to noodles. You can also add more lean chicken for protein.
What can I substitute for chicken broth? If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a fabulous alternative. It’ll still give a rich flavor without the meat.
How long can I store leftovers? Your soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup? Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles. They can become mushy when thawed. Store the broth and chicken separately for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Making this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about crafting moments that bring warmth and joy to your family. Each spoonful is a delivery of comfort, evoking memories of cozy nights and shared laughter. I truly believe that cooking is an expression of love, and this soup wraps your loved ones in a loving embrace. So next time life feels hectic, remember this simple recipe is your ally in creating delicious magic. After all, nothing says “home” quite like a bowl of creamy goodness. Dig in and enjoy the smiles it brings!
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Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and creamy chicken noodle soup that’s perfect for cozy nights.
Ingredients
- 14 g unsalted butter
- 100 g chopped yellow onion
- 120 g sliced or diced carrots
- 120 g sliced or diced celery
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 31 g all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon fine salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano or 1 teaspoon fresh oregano
- 1.92 liters reduced sodium chicken broth
- 280 g peeled and diced potato
- 250 g shredded or chopped cooked chicken
- 240 ml half-and-half or whole milk
- 112–150 g uncooked wide egg noodles or other dry pasta
- Fresh thyme leaves (garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Heat the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for approximately 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Add the flour, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano to the softened vegetables. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes to form a roux and release the flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potato. Stir briefly to combine. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil without stirring. Boil for 3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, partially cover the pot, and simmer for 25 minutes until potatoes are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, half-and-half or whole milk, and uncooked noodles. Continue cooking for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are al dente and the soup has thickened. Adjust seasoning as preferred.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve warm.
- Cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 1 week. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding more chicken broth if the soup is too thick.
Notes
- Can be made with rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Substitutions for pasta can be made for a gluten-free version.
- Using fresh herbs can enhance the flavors significantly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
