Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup to comfort you on a chilly day or to bring a sense of calm to your busy week. This delicious soup recipe combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a velvety broth that will become your new go-to comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for your family or yourself, this creamy chicken noodle soup is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into how to make this classic recipe step-by-step.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

To make this delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 Tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup (100g) chopped yellow onion (about half 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
• 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 thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 teaspoon fresh oregano)
• 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 of choice)
• Optional for garnish: Fresh thyme leaves

this RECIPE

Why Use These Specific Ingredients?

Each ingredient in this recipe has a unique purpose that contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the soup:

• Butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor as it forms the base for sautéing the vegetables.
• Onion, Carrots, and Celery: These classic soup vegetables create a flavorful base, adding natural sweetness and texture.
• Garlic: Enhances the soup with aromatic depth and a hint of spice.
• Flour: Acts as a thickening agent to give the broth its creamy consistency.
• Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Thyme, Oregano): Provide a balance of savory flavors, enhancing the taste of the chicken and vegetables.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the bulk of the soup, delivering a rich, savory flavor.
• Potato: Adds heartiness and a smooth, creamy texture as it cooks down.
• Chicken: The main protein, providing tender bites throughout the soup.
• Half-and-Half or Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and body to the broth.
• Noodles: Provide a satisfying, chewy texture that complements the soft vegetables and tender chicken.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven (at least 4-quart size)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Vegetables

Begin by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook these vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until they are softened and aromatic.

2. Cooking the Base of the Soup

Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir well to coat them evenly. This will help thicken the soup as it cooks. Add the salt, pepper, dried thyme, and oregano, and continue to cook for about 2 minutes to allow the flour to cook out and the spices to bloom, enhancing their flavors.

3. Adding the Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Give everything a quick stir to combine. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a boil. Allow it to boil for about 3 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer for 25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Finishing with Chicken, Milk, and Noodles

Add the shredded or chopped chicken, half-and-half (or whole milk), and noodles to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for another 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.

Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

• Cook the Vegetables Slowly: Allow the vegetables to soften over medium heat without browning them to preserve their sweetness.
• Thickening the Soup: Make sure to cook the flour for at least 2 minutes to remove any raw taste and properly thicken the broth.
• Avoid Overcooking the Noodles: Add the noodles toward the end of the cooking process to prevent them from becoming too soft or mushy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Vegetables: This can cause them to become mushy and lose their texture.
• Overly Thick Soup: If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Seasoning Errors: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve the creamy chicken noodle soup in deep bowls, garnished with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. Pair it with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting and visually appealing presentation, sprinkle a bit of freshly ground black pepper on top.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. When reheating, pour the soup into a pot and warm over medium heat until heated through. If the soup is too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of chicken broth to adjust the consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer instead of half-and-half or whole milk.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use mushrooms or tofu in place of the chicken.
• Different Vegetables: Add spinach, kale, or peas for a different flavor and nutritional boost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use a different type of noodle?
  Yes! You can use any pasta you like, such as fusilli, macaroni, or bow-tie pasta.
• Can I freeze this soup?
  While the soup can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it without the noodles, as they may become mushy. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
• What if my soup is too thick?
  Simply add more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

There you have it – a comforting, creamy chicken noodle soup that’s perfect for any day of the week! This recipe is easy to make, customizable, and sure to become a family favorite. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more tasty meals!

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