Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
A Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is the perfect dish to warm your soul on chilly days. This comforting classic blends tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles in a creamy broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavor and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Warmth: Ideal for cold evenings, this soup brings warmth and comfort.
- Quick Preparation: Easily prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: A family favorite that even picky eaters will love.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or pasta types.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for batch cooking and freezes well for later use.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing plenty of room for all ingredients.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing the cream soup into the broth.
Ingredients
A family favorite for cold days or any time you need a hug, it’s a classic recipe made even more delicious.
For the Soup Base
- ½ cup butter
- 2 cups chopped carrots (about 3 large carrots)
- 1 ½ cups chopped celery (about half a head of celery)
- 1 cup chopped onion (about one medium onion)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon base
- ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper (plus additional for seasoning)
For the Chicken and Noodles
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 4 ounces of wide egg noodles (about 2 ½ cups)
For Creaminess
- 2 10.5 ounce cans cream of chicken soup
- ¼ cup water or milk
Finishing Touches
- Salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (optional garnish)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Then, add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and the vegetables are tender. Watch the heat to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously to coat them evenly and break up any clumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to combine with the butter and vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Bouillon
Slowly stir in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Then, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Next, add the chicken bouillon base and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, stirring to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken breasts into the pot, fully submerging them in the broth. Cover the pot, reduce heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove chicken from pot and place it on a cutting board. If needed, cook for a few extra minutes until fully done.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Add egg noodles to the pot, stirring to combine. Cover and cook on medium-high for 7-10 minutes until noodles are tender. While noodles cook, use two forks to shred chicken on cutting board into bite-sized pieces. Once noodles are done, return shredded chicken to pot.
Step 6: Add the Cream Soup
Whisk together two cans of cream of chicken soup in a small bowl with ¼ cup water or milk. Pour mixture into pot, stirring thoroughly until soup is creamy and well blended. Taste and add additional pepper and salt if desired.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish if desired. Serve warm.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Serving Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a delightful experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. This soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Here are some suggestions to enhance your serving experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair with a gooey grilled cheese for a classic comfort meal.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Offer garlic breadsticks for an extra flavorful bite.
Garnish Ideas
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Add fresh parsley or thyme to elevate the flavor and presentation.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top for a zesty twist.
- Shredded Cheese: Top with grated Parmesan or cheddar for added richness.
Serving Style
- In Individual Bowls: Present soup in individual bowls for a more formal dining experience.
- Family Style: Serve in a large pot on the table, allowing guests to help themselves.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
To achieve the best version of your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your soup is delicious and comforting every time you make it.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making the soup more vibrant.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; add salt and pepper in small increments until it’s just right.
- Choose Quality Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while maximizing flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook noodles al dente so they don’t become mushy when reheated.
- Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; flavors meld beautifully during this time.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Complement your delicious Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe with some tasty side dishes. These pairings will enhance your meal and provide variety.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and a crunchy texture.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring a sweet, smoky flavor that complements the soup well.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up every drop of broth.
- Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips offer a fun contrast to the creamy soup texture.
- Stuffed Peppers: Savory stuffed peppers can be a hearty addition alongside your chicken noodle soup.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the soup.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and brightness, making it a refreshing side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, small mistakes can lead to big differences in taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
-
Overcooking the Vegetables – If you cook the vegetables too long at high heat, they can become mushy. Aim for a tender texture by cooking them just until they are soft.
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Not Shredding the Chicken Properly – Failing to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces can result in uneven distribution in your soup. Use two forks to shred it after cooking for a more consistent texture.
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Skipping the Flour Step – Skipping the step of adding flour can leave your soup thin and watery. Make sure to sprinkle flour over the veggies and let it cook for a few minutes before adding broth.
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Using Regular Chicken Broth – Opting for regular chicken broth instead of low-sodium can make your soup too salty. Always choose low-sodium options, then adjust seasoning as needed.
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Not Tasting Before Serving – Neglecting to taste your soup before serving can lead to bland flavors. Always check and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before ladling it out.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for about 3-4 days.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Simmer on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe that might help you get better results:
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover cooked chicken is great for this soup. Just add it during the last stages of cooking.
What kind of noodles work best?
Wide egg noodles are traditional, but you can also use any pasta of your choice, such as rotini or bowties.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and noodles while following the same cooking instructions.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include peas, corn, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is perfect for cozy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. Its versatility allows for many customization options, such as adding different vegetables or spices. Try this heartwarming dish today; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Indulge in the warmth of this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, a quintessential comfort food that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little TLC. This delightful soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty egg noodles in a rich and creamy broth that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. In just under an hour, you can have a delicious homemade meal that’s not only nourishing but also versatile enough to suit any family’s taste. Customize it with your favorite veggies or add some spices to elevate the flavor. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with crusty bread, this soup is destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- 2 cups chopped carrots
- 1 ½ cups chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, and onion; cook until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for another few minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth and bouillon; bring to a boil.
- Submerge chicken breasts, cover, and simmer until cooked through.
- Remove chicken, shred it, then add noodles to the pot and cook until tender.
- Mix cream of chicken soup with water or milk, then stir into the pot along with shredded chicken.
- Season, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
