Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup, especially on a chilly day. This homemade version is rich and flavorful, with tender vegetables, juicy chicken, and perfectly cooked egg noodles, all swimming in a creamy broth that’s nothing short of satisfying. It’s the perfect balance of heartiness and comfort, making it an ideal dish for cozy dinners or when you need a pick-me-up. Made with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this creamy chicken noodle soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

With a base of olive oil and fresh vegetables, this soup starts with a fragrant and flavorful foundation. The addition of chicken broth and shredded chicken adds richness, while the egg noodles provide a comforting, soft texture. Stir in some milk, and you’ve got a creamy, delicious broth that ties everything together. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or need a warming lunch, this soup is quick to make and full of nourishing ingredients. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences and adjustments.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Hearty

This creamy chicken noodle soup is warm, filling, and incredibly soothing. It’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for days when you need comfort food.

2. Quick and Easy

With just 35 minutes of total cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to get dinner on the table quickly.

3. One-Pot Meal

Made in just one pot, this soup minimizes cleanup while still delivering maximum flavor.

4. Versatile

You can easily customize this soup by adding other vegetables, seasonings, or even using a different type of pasta, depending on your preferences.

5. Healthy and Nourishing

Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the veggies, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
• Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup: For a refreshing twist, add the juice of half a lemon to the soup before serving.
• Creamy Tomato Chicken Noodle Soup: Swap out half of the chicken broth for canned tomato puree or diced tomatoes for a creamy tomato variation.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta in place of egg noodles and make sure to check that your chicken broth is gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, allowing it to become fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Noodles

Add the shredded chicken and egg noodles to the pot. Stir and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Step 5: Stir in Milk and Season

Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the milk to make the soup creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Shred the Chicken Ahead of Time: You can use leftover cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Use Homemade Broth: If you have time, homemade chicken broth will add even more depth of flavor to the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Be careful not to overcook the egg noodles, as they can become mushy. Add them to the pot last and cook just until tender.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a richer soup, add more milk or even a splash of cream for extra creaminess.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for added flavor and texture.

How to Serve

• Serve this creamy chicken noodle soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
• You can also pair it with a simple salad or sandwich for a full meal.
• If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some croutons on top of the soup just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and taste even better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze creamy chicken noodle soup for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought chicken broth?

Yes, store-bought chicken broth works perfectly in this recipe. Opt for low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt content.

2. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to cook it through before shredding and adding it to the soup.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

4. What can I use instead of egg noodles?

You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, such as fusilli, penne, or bowtie pasta.

5. How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can stir in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture.

6. Can I add spinach or kale?

Yes, adding fresh spinach or kale is a great way to boost the nutritional value of the soup. Stir in a handful of greens during the last few minutes of cooking.

7. How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

8. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients (except for the milk) and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Stir in the milk just before serving.

9. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works wonderfully in this soup.

10. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup some heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With tender vegetables, creamy broth, and hearty chicken and noodles, it’s a dish that will warm you up and satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a family dinner or as a weeknight meal, this soup is both delicious and nutritious. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness in no time. Whether served on a cold winter day or any time you need a comforting meal, this creamy chicken noodle soup will be a hit!

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