Chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and soft egg noodles, this recipe takes the classic to the next level. What makes this creamy chicken noodle soup recipe so irresistible is the rich broth made with real cream, elevating the flavors without making it feel too heavy.
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Why This Chicken Noodle Soup is a Game-Changer
This creamy chicken noodle soup is an easy-to-make dish that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch or dinner, it’s a family-friendly meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort. The creamy texture adds a special twist to the traditional recipe, making it feel like a luxurious treat without being overly rich. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any season.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy chicken noodle soup:
• Celery – Adds crunch and a subtle savory flavor to the soup.
• Carrots – Provide a slight sweetness and color to the soup.
• Onion – Adds depth of flavor and savory base.
• Olive oil and butter – Used for sautéing the vegetables and adding richness.
• Garlic – Imparts a fragrant, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Flour – Thickens the broth, giving it a creamy texture.
• Chicken broth – The base of the soup that brings savory depth.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender chicken that cooks easily in the soup.
• Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that infuses the soup with a delicious, aromatic flavor.
• Heavy cream – The key ingredient for making the soup creamy and smooth.
• Egg noodles – Soft, comforting noodles that soak up the flavors of the broth.
• Fresh parsley – Adds a bright, fresh contrast to the richness of the soup.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re looking for some alternatives or adjustments, here are a few options:
• Chicken thighs – For juicier chicken, you can swap breasts for thighs, which are harder to overcook and maintain moisture.
• Rotisserie chicken – To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken breasts.
• Gluten-free pasta – Swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Non-dairy alternatives – For a lighter version, use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream, but note the texture and flavor will be different.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Add garlic and flour: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add flour and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly.
- Incorporate the broth: Pour in the chicken broth while stirring to dissolve the flour.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken breasts and Italian seasoning to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.
- Add the noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and cover the pot with the lid slightly open. Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the soup.
- Add cream and season: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, add chopped fresh parsley and stir everything together. Serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Soup
• Avoid overcooking the noodles: Since the noodles will continue to absorb liquid as the soup sits, cook them al dente so they don’t get too mushy.
• Check for flavor: After adding the chicken back into the soup, taste and adjust the seasoning. A pinch more salt or pepper can make a big difference.
• Leftover storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup becomes too thick.
• Make ahead: This soup can be prepared in advance, but be mindful that the noodles will absorb the broth over time. It’s best enjoyed the day it’s made.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This creamy chicken noodle soup is satisfying on its own, but here are a few ideas to make your meal even better:
• Side salads: Pair with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast to the creamy soup.
• Crusty bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a roll for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to bring a bit of heat to the soup.
• Herb variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add extra depth and fragrance to the soup.
Why This Chicken Noodle Soup is a Must-Try
If you love classic chicken noodle soup, this creamy version will become a new favorite. The addition of cream creates a silky texture and rich flavor, without feeling too heavy. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious.
This creamy chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and sure to warm you up on the coldest days. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty bowl of pure comfort!
Conclusion
This creamy chicken noodle soup recipe is everything you could want in a comfort meal – simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. With its rich, velvety broth and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or need a comforting bowl after a long day, this soup is guaranteed to bring warmth and happiness. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite variations or side dishes to make it uniquely yours. Give this recipe a try today, and enjoy a cozy, flavorful bowl of homemade soup!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this creamy chicken noodle soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time, but keep in mind that the noodles will absorb the broth as it sits. If you plan to store leftovers, you may need to add a little more chicken broth or cream when reheating to achieve the desired consistency.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream in this recipe?
While heavy cream creates the rich and velvety texture of this soup, you can substitute it with a non-dairy option like coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter version. However, the flavor and texture may vary slightly, so be sure to test it out before serving.
3. How do I store leftover creamy chicken noodle soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little more chicken broth or cream to restore the soup’s creamy texture.
More Relevant Recipes
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Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This creamy chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken, soft egg noodles, and a velvety broth made with heavy cream. Perfect for chilly days, this easy-to-make recipe is a family favorite that will warm you right up!
Ingredients
- 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
- 2 medium carrots, peeled & chopped finely
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 generous cups uncooked egg noodles
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring until the flour dissolves completely.
- Add the chicken breasts and Italian seasoning to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the egg noodles and cover the pot. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the soup.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add chopped parsley, stir, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a juicier option, substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- If you prefer a lighter version, consider using a non-dairy substitute like coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, add it 5 minutes before the soup is done to avoid overcooking.
- The soup thickens over time, so add extra chicken broth or cream when reheating leftovers if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
