Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. With its rich, velvety broth filled with tender chicken and fresh vegetables, this soup brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or need a quick meal after a long day, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use rotisserie chicken to save time or customize with your favorite veggies.
• Deliciously Creamy: The addition of half-and-half creates a comforting texture that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, game nights, or when you need a cozy night in.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for those busy days when you need something quick.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup without overflow.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for your veggies, making prep quick and efficient.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measuring ingredients leads to the best flavor results.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup (100g) chopped yellow onion (about 1/2 a large onion)
• 1 cup (120g) sliced or diced carrots (1–2 large carrots or a handful of baby carrots)
• 1 cup (120g) sliced or diced celery (2–3 stalks)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

For Seasoning

• 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 teaspoon fresh)

For the Soup

• 8 cups (1.92 liters) chicken broth (preferably reduced sodium)
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (about 1 1/2 cups or 280g)
• 2 cups (about 250g) shredded or chopped cooked chicken
• 1 cup (240ml) half-and-half or whole milk
• 3–4 cups (about 112–150g) uncooked wide egg noodles (or other dry pasta, see notes)

For Garnish

• Optional garnish: fresh thyme leaves

How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the vegetables have softened.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Flour

Stir in the all-purpose flour along with salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Cook for an additional 2 minutes while stirring constantly to remove any raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potato

Pour in the chicken broth along with the diced potato. Stir everything together well. Increase the heat to medium-high until it reaches a boil without stirring. Let it boil for about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Partially cover the pot with a lid and allow the soup to simmer for around 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Add Chicken, Cream, and Noodles

Stir in your cooked chicken along with half-and-half or milk, plus your uncooked noodles. Cook for about 10 minutes until the noodles become tender and the soup thickens slightly. Again taste to adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your creamy chicken noodle soup warm. Optionally garnish each bowl with fresh thyme leaves for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of homemade creamy chicken noodle soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving creamy chicken noodle soup can enhance the meal experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread adds a savory flavor that complements the creamy broth.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and the tanginess of Caesar dressing balance the richness of the soup.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides freshness and crunch.

Top with Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or additional thyme leaves on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese can add a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Perfecting your creamy chicken noodle soup can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to achieve that velvety goodness.

• Use Quality Broth: Start with high-quality chicken broth for a rich base. Homemade broth is ideal, but low-sodium store-bought options work well too.
• Sauté Vegetables Properly: Take time to sauté onions, carrots, and celery until they are soft, as this builds depth in flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for maximum flavor.
• Thicken Wisely: If you want a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add a bit more flour. Just be sure to stir constantly when adding flour to avoid lumps.
• Add Cream Gradually: When adding half-and-half or cream, do so gradually while stirring. This helps incorporate it smoothly into the soup.
• Choose Noodles Carefully: Opt for wide egg noodles or other pasta shapes that hold up well during cooking. Avoid overcooking them to maintain the right texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Complementing creamy chicken noodle soup with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent choices.

1. Garlic Knots: These buttery knots are perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious broth.
2. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with melted cheese add a comforting touch alongside the soup.
3. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A warm dip served with crispy tortilla chips offers an indulgent starter before the main course.
4. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy balance and vibrant colors on your plate.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice and meat make for a hearty addition alongside your soup.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and offer a light contrast to the creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Using too much salt: Adding too much salt can overpower the flavors. Start with less and adjust at the end.
• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always cook them first to enhance their flavors.
• Overcooking noodles: Cooking noodles for too long will make them mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Not tasting as you go: Failing to taste the soup while cooking may result in unbalanced flavors. Make sure to adjust seasonings throughout.
• Ignoring storage tips: Not properly storing leftovers can lead to waste. Follow guidelines for refrigeration and freezing to keep your soup fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup stays fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, add an extra tablespoon of flour while sautéing vegetables or use a cornstarch slurry towards the end.

Can I use leftover chicken for this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted or boiled chicken works great and adds flavor.

What pasta types work best in Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?

Wide egg noodles are traditional, but you can also use elbow macaroni or even tortellini for variety.

How do I store leftover Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute half-and-half with oat milk or coconut milk for a creamy texture without dairy.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days and family gatherings. Its versatility allows for various adaptations, whether you prefer different pasta shapes or additional veggies. Give this recipe a try and customize it to suit your taste!

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