Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, look no further than this Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly days, or whenever you need a quick, wholesome dish to warm your soul. With tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a creamy broth infused with aromatic vegetables and herbs, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

To make this creamy chicken noodle soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and 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 uncooked chicken breasts
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 2 generous cups uncooked egg noodles
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before diving into the recipe, gather the following kitchen equipment:

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

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepping the Vegetables and Aromatics

Start by preparing the vegetables. Finely chop the celery, carrots, and onion to ensure they cook evenly and release their flavors quickly. Mince the garlic and set it aside for later use.

2. Sautéing for Maximum Flavor

Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter melts and starts to foam, add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Adding Flour and Building the Soup Base

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for about a minute. This step helps to create a thick, rich base for your soup.

4. Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and stir until the flour dissolves completely. Add 1.5 pounds of uncooked chicken breasts directly into the pot, followed by 1/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and 1 cup of heavy cream. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar.

5. Simmering the Soup with Egg Noodles

Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. Then, add 2 generous cups of uncooked egg noodles to the pot. Cover again, keeping the lid slightly open, and cook for another 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure the noodles don’t stick to the bottom.

6. Finishing Touches: Seasoning and Fresh Herbs

Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the pot. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

• For extra creaminess, use an additional 1/2 cup of heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
• To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme or dill to complement the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken only until it is just done to keep it tender and juicy.
• Undercooking or overcooking the noodles: Keep a close eye on the noodles while they simmer; they should be cooked until just tender.
• Adding too much salt early on: Wait until the end to adjust the seasoning, as the broth can become saltier as it reduces.

Variations and Swaps

• Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer a richer, more tender texture.
• Make it dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.
• Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve your creamy chicken noodle soup with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a special touch, serve in a rustic soup bowl with a side of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Storing Leftovers and Reheating

To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs About Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of uncooked chicken breasts?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken can be a great time-saver. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it towards the end of cooking to heat through.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the chicken, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the cream and noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

conclusion

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