A Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food for cold days or whenever you need a warm hug. This classic dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles in a rich, creamy broth. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you’re feeling under the weather. Each spoonful is a reminder of home and love, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this soup ready in under an hour.
- Heartwarming Flavor: The combination of chicken and vegetables creates a rich taste that warms your soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes for a unique twist.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for leftovers or batch cooking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, everyone loves this comforting bowl of goodness.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
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: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills when mixing ingredients.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even-sized pieces for better cooking.
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. Then, add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion turns translucent and the vegetables are tender. Watch the heat to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously to coat them evenly and break up any clumps. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flour to combine with the butter and vegetables.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Bouillon
Slowly stir in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Next, add the chicken bouillon base and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, stirring to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken breasts into the pot, fully submerging them in the broth. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Then remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. If needed, cook for a few extra minutes until fully done.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the pot, stirring to combine. Cover and cook on medium-high for 7–10 minutes until noodles are tender. While they cook, use two forks to shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once done, return shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 6: Add the Cream Soup
Whisk together two cans of cream of chicken soup in a small bowl with ¼ cup of water or milk. Pour this mixture into your pot, stirring thoroughly until well-blended. Taste and add additional pepper and salt if desired.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm to enjoy every comforting bite!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Serving Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup can elevate your dining experience. This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty loaf of bread complements the creamy texture of the soup perfectly, allowing you to soak up every last drop.
Add a Side Salad
- A fresh garden salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the soup. Consider using a light vinaigrette.
Serve with Grilled Cheese
- Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic pairing with chicken noodle soup. The gooey cheese contrasts nicely with the warm broth.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance the flavor profile of your soup. Sprinkle some on top just before serving.
Offer Cheese Croutons
- Cheese croutons can add a delightful crunch and cheesy flavor. Simply toast some bread with cheese until bubbly and golden.
Include Pickles or Relish
- Adding pickles or relish on the side can provide a tangy contrast that brightens up the overall meal.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup, consider these helpful tips:
- Use high-quality chicken broth: The broth serves as the base for your soup, so choose low-sodium options for better control over saltiness.
- Shred chicken while hot: Shredding the chicken right after cooking allows it to absorb more flavors from the soup.
- Avoid overcooking noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles; overcooked noodles can become mushy and ruin the texture of your soup.
- Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go, adding pepper and salt little by little to avoid overwhelming flavors.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like peas or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
- Let it simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer for extra flavor development enhances its richness and depth.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Complementing your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup with delicious side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your soup.
- Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds a creamy dressing that pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms offer a delightful bite-sized treat alongside each bowl of soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a wonderful contrast to the savory soup, making it an excellent pairing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and additional nutrients to your meal, enhancing its appeal.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make a hearty side dish that complements the comforting nature of chicken noodle soup.
- Cheese Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheese are excellent for soaking up every bit of broth in your bowl.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a sweet finish to balance the savory flavors of the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a creamy chicken noodle soup can seem straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Not chopping vegetables evenly: If your carrots or celery are cut unevenly, they will cook at different rates. Ensure all pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
- Skipping the flour step: Neglecting to mix in the flour with the vegetables can lead to a soupy texture. Always coat your veggies with flour to thicken the soup properly.
- Using high-sodium broth: Choosing regular chicken broth can make your soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the seasoning better.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Monitor its internal temperature and remove it from heat once it reaches 165°F.
- Forgetting to season at the end: Always taste your soup before serving! Adding salt and pepper at the end ensures you get the flavor just right.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can be kept for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, but noodles may become mushy upon reheating.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe so comforting?
This recipe combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and creamy broth, creating a comforting meal perfect for cold days.
Can I customize my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn, or substitute with different types of noodles.
How do I make a healthier version of this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
You can use whole wheat noodles and lower-fat cream of chicken soup or make your own from scratch using fresh ingredients.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken will save you time and still provide great flavor. Just shred and add it at the end.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, but keep in mind that noodles may lose their texture after freezing. Consider adding fresh noodles after reheating if desired.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is not only a classic comfort dish but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have at home. Whether served on a chilly day or when you need a cozy meal, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Try it out and enjoy customizing it to fit your family’s tastes!
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm hug. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and egg noodles in a luscious, creamy broth that evokes feelings of home and warmth. Easy to prepare in under an hour, it’s a delightful meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes for a personal touch. With its rich, heartwarming flavor and comforting consistency, this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- 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
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, and onion; cook until tender.
- Stir in flour and cook for a few minutes to combine.
- Gradually add chicken broth, chicken bouillon base, and black pepper; bring to a boil.
- Add chicken breasts; cover and simmer until cooked through. Remove and shred the chicken.
- Stir in egg noodles; cook until tender. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
- Mix cream of chicken soup with water or milk; add to the pot and stir well.
- Season to taste and serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
