A Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is the perfect dish for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting meal. This classic recipe is not only rich and flavorful, but it also offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vibrant vegetables. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a cozy starter, this soup will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting & Hearty: This soup is a warm hug in a bowl, making it ideal for cold weather or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the veggies or noodles based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and savory flavors in this dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time; it freezes well for future meals!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make preparing your creamy chicken noodle soup even easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking large quantities of soup evenly.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, especially when mixing the cream soup.
Ingredients
A family favorite for cold days or any time you need a hug, it’s a classic recipe made even more delicious.
- 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 course ground black pepper (plus additional for seasoning)
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 4 ounces of wide egg noodles (about 2 ½ cups)
- 2 10.5 ounce cans cream of chicken soup
- ¼ cup water or milk
- 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. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 7–10 minutes while stirring occasionally until the onion turns translucent and the vegetables are tender. Be careful to monitor the heat to prevent any burning.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables, stirring continuously to coat them evenly. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to allow the flour to mix well with the butter and vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Bouillon
Slowly stir in the chicken broth to avoid lumps forming. Increase the heat to medium-high until boiling. Then add in the chicken bouillon base along with ½ teaspoon of black pepper while stirring to blend all flavors together.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken breasts into the pot so they are fully submerged in broth. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and let simmer for about 15 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from pot when done and set aside on a cutting board.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Add egg noodles into pot while stirring to combine with broth. Cover again and cook on medium-high for about 7–10 minutes until noodles are tender. Meanwhile, shred cooked chicken using two forks into bite-sized pieces before returning them back into pot after noodles are done.
Step 6: Add the Cream Soup
In a small bowl, whisk together both cans of cream of chicken soup with ¼ cup water or milk. Pour this mixture into your pot while stirring thoroughly until everything is creamy and well blended. Taste test before adding any extra salt or pepper as desired.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle out servings into bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley if desired before serving warm! Enjoy your cozy bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Serving it correctly enhances its flavors and makes it even more enjoyable for your family and friends.
Classic Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. It adds texture and soaks up the delicious broth.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic twist that everyone will love.
Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and color to your soup.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy a zesty kick in their soup.
Salad Pairings
- Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad complements the hearty soup well, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Perfecting your creamy chicken noodle soup takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup, making it taste homemade.
- Control Your Heat: Cooking on medium heat prevents burning and ensures even cooking of all ingredients.
- Shred Chicken Properly: Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces for better distribution in each bowl.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go. Add salt and pepper gradually to achieve the perfect balance.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding thyme or rosemary for additional flavor layers that complement the chicken beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your creamy chicken noodle soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the soup’s creaminess.
- Potato Wedges: Baked or fried potato wedges add heartiness to your meal, making it more filling.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully, offering a delightful sweetness against savory flavors.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats are great appetizers that complement the main dish perfectly.
- Cheese Biscuits: Fluffy cheese biscuits add richness and are ideal for sopping up any leftover broth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
Skipping the sauté step: This step enhances the flavor of your soup. Always cook the vegetables until tender to bring out their natural sweetness.
Not using low-sodium broth: A high-sodium broth can make your soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the seasoning better.
Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Monitor the cooking time closely to ensure it remains juicy.
Neglecting to season gradually: Adding all your salt and pepper at once can lead to uneven seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually.
Using thick noodles: Wide egg noodles are best for this soup, but avoid cooking them too long as they may become mushy. Check for doneness regularly.
Forgetting fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness and flavor. Don’t skip this optional garnish; it elevates your soup’s presentation and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, but the noodles may become mushy upon reheating.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered baking dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver! Just shred it and add it when you mix in the cream of chicken soup.
What can I substitute for egg noodles?
If you prefer a healthier option, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make this soup healthier?
You can reduce butter or use olive oil instead. Additionally, adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini enhances nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freeze portions for later use.
How do I thicken my creamy chicken noodle soup?
If you’d like a thicker consistency, you can whisk together some cornstarch with water and stir it into the simmering soup until desired thickness is reached.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Try making this delightful dish on cold days or whenever you’re craving comfort food—it’s sure to warm your heart!
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm hug in a bowl. This recipe combines tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a medley of vibrant vegetables in a rich and creamy broth. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as a cozy starter, this soup satisfies both the heart and taste buds. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, it’s an accessible option for cooks of all skill levels. Customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to make it truly your own. Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for an extra comforting experience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
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 teaspoon chicken bouillon base
- 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.
- Add chicken breasts, cover, and simmer until cooked through; then shred the chicken.
- Stir in egg noodles; cook until tender.
- Mix cream of chicken soup with water or milk; add to the pot and stir well.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
