Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
A Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is the perfect solution for chilly days or when you need comforting food. This classic recipe combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a luscious broth that wraps you in warmth. It’s a family favorite that’s simple to make and sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those cold winter nights.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing.
Tools and Preparation
To create this creamy delight, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups
- Chopping knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups as it allows for even heat distribution and ample space for all ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient portions, which helps maintain flavor balance in your soup.
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 Protein 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
Seasoning and Garnish
- 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 over medium heat. Then, add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for about 7-10 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables. Stir continuously to coat evenly, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine everything well.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Bouillon
Gradually stir in the chicken broth while avoiding lumps. Increase heat to medium-high until it boils. Add chicken bouillon base and black pepper, stirring well to blend flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Place chicken breasts into the pot so they are submerged in broth. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for about 15 minutes until cooked through at 165°F. Remove chicken once done.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Add wide egg noodles to the pot, stirring them in. Cover and cook on medium-high heat for about 7-10 minutes until tender. Meanwhile, shred cooked chicken using two forks into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the pot.
Step 6: Add the Cream Soup
In a small bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup with water or milk. Pour this mixture into your pot, stirring until creamy and well-blended. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle hot soup into bowls. Optionally sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your homemade Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Serving Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this warm dish.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of a crusty baguette for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs wonderfully with the soup’s richness.
Topped with Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar: Sprinkle some sharp cheddar cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
- Parmesan Shavings: Fresh parmesan adds a nutty finish that enhances each bite.
Accompanied by Salads
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
- Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette complements the soup’s creaminess.
With Crackers
- Saltine Crackers: These classic crackers provide a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy texture.
- Cheese Crackers: Add a cheesy, savory note that makes each spoonful more enjoyable.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Homemade Broth: For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles while cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning as you go along. This ensures balanced flavors throughout the soup.
- Add Vegetables at Different Times: For varied textures, consider adding hard vegetables like carrots earlier and softer ones like peas later in the cooking process.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For quicker preparation, shred rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken breasts.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding herbs like thyme or dill for an additional flavor dimension.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, this melty sandwich complements the soup beautifully.
- Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth and add comfort to your meal.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory soup flavors.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a hearty addition that works well alongside the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: These can be made ahead and stuffed with rice, beans, and spices for a filling side.
- Roasted Veggies: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people overlook key steps when making a creamy chicken noodle soup recipe. Here are common mistakes and how to prevent them.
- Skipping the Sautéing: Not cooking the vegetables long enough can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to sauté until they are tender and the onion is translucent.
- Neglecting to Season: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your soup flat. Always taste your soup as you go, adding salt and pepper as needed.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Monitor the internal temperature and remove it once it reaches 165°F for juicy pieces.
- Using Regular Broth: Opting for regular chicken broth instead of low-sodium can make your soup overly salty. Choose low-sodium broth for better control over flavor.
- Rushing the Noodles: Adding noodles too early can lead to mushy texture. Wait until the chicken is cooked before adding noodles to ensure they remain firm.
- Ignoring Consistency: Forgetting to mix in cream of chicken soup properly can result in lumps. Whisk it separately with water or milk before adding it to ensure a smooth texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover creamy chicken noodle soup in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, though the noodles may lose texture upon thawing.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the creamy chicken noodle soup recipe.
How do I make my creamy chicken noodle soup thicker?
You can thicken your creamy chicken noodle soup by adding more flour when sautéing or using less broth. Alternatively, let it simmer longer without a lid.
Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Just shred it and add it during the last few minutes of cooking.
What can I substitute for egg noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use any pasta shape like rotini or penne. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta used.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
Yes! You can reduce the butter amount, use whole wheat noodles, and add more vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
Can I make this creamy chicken noodle soup recipe in advance?
Yes! This soup keeps well, especially if you store the noodles separately. Combine everything before serving for best results.
Final Thoughts
This creamy chicken noodle soup recipe is not only comforting but incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or additional veggies. It’s perfect for any day when you need a warm hug from a bowl!
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort with this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, perfect for warming up on chilly days or when you seek a hearty meal. This classic, family-friendly dish features tender chicken and wide egg noodles enveloped in a rich, creamy broth that’s both satisfying and nourishing. The straightforward preparation makes it ideal for cooks of all skill levels. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
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
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté carrots, celery, and onion until tender (7-10 minutes).
- Sprinkle flour over the veggies; stir for another 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth and bouillon; bring to a boil.
- Submerge chicken breasts in the pot, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes until cooked through.
- Cook egg noodles in the broth for about 7-10 minutes until tender; shred chicken and return to pot.
- Mix cream of chicken soup with water/milk; pour into pot and stir until creamy.
- Serve hot with optional parsley garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
