This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is the perfect comfort dish for any occasion. Loaded with tender shredded chicken, plump noodles, and a variety of healthy vegetables, this soup is hearty and delicious. Whether it’s a chilly day or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. It’s simple to make and appeals to both kids and adults alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: This soup is a complete meal in a bowl, providing all the nutrients you need.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious dish that will impress everyone.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute the pasta type for variety.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and fun noodles, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later on.
Tools and Preparation
To make this creamy chicken noodle soup recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easy and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Large pan
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: This tool is crucial for cooking the broth, chicken, and vegetables together.
- Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly when adding flour to the broth.
Ingredients
This creamy chicken noodle soup loaded with tender shredded chicken, plump noodles, and healthy vegetables. It’s hearty, delicious and loved by everyone who tries it!
- 6 cups chicken broth (we used low sodium)
- 5 cups water
- Salt to taste
- 3-4 chicken thighs (skinless (bone-in or boneless))
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 medium carrots (2 grated, 1 sliced into thin rings or half circles)
- 2 medium celery stalks (finely chopped or thinly sliced if you prefer)
- 2 cups pasta such as rotini (egg noodles, or your favorite kind)
- 1 cup corn (from 15 oz can, or preferably 1 cooked cob)
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 Tbsp fresh or frozen dill
- 1 tsp Mrs. Dash (or your favorite salt-free seasoning)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large soup pot, combine 6 cups of chicken broth, 5 cups of water, and 1/2 tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil then add the chicken thighs. There’s no need to trim any fat; just let them boil uncovered for about 20 minutes. Skim off any impurities that rise to the top while cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the chicken is boiling, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Increase the heat to medium-high and add grated carrots along with chopped celery. Sauté for another 5–7 minutes until everything is soft and golden before transferring it to the soup pot.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Let them rest until cool enough to handle. Use forks or your hands to shred the chicken while discarding any bones or excess fat. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Vegetables
Add 2 cups of pasta, sliced carrots, and corn into the soup pot. Continue cooking at a low boil for about 15 minutes until pasta reaches your desired softness. You can skim off excess oil from the top if preferred.
Step 5: Create a Creamy Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 1/3 cup of flour and cook while whisking constantly for about 1–2 minutes until it barely turns golden. Ladle in 1 cup of hot broth from the soup pot into this mixture while whisking continually until well blended. Then whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream before transferring everything back into the soup pot.
Step 6: Final Seasoning
Season your soup with 1 teaspoon of Mrs. Dash (or your favorite salt-free seasoning) along with more salt to taste if needed. Stir in 3 tablespoons of dill then return everything to a boil before turning off the heat. Enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Serving creamy chicken noodle soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and comforting textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or extra dill on top for a burst of freshness.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges to add a zesty kick that complements the creaminess.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: A slice of sourdough or French bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Salad: Pair it with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Bowls
- Soup Mugs: Use large mugs for a cozy presentation that keeps the soup warm longer.
- Individual Bowls: Serve in small bowls for a more elegant dining experience, perfect for dinner parties.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
To make the best creamy chicken noodle soup, consider these simple yet effective tips.
- Use Low Sodium Broth: This allows you to control the saltiness and enhance flavors without overwhelming them.
- Shred Chicken While Warm: Shredding your chicken as soon as it cools makes it easier to handle and ensures tender pieces.
- Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer al dente pasta, cook it separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Add Vegetables at Different Times: Sauté harder vegetables like carrots and celery first, then add softer ones like corn later for better texture.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Pair your creamy chicken noodle soup with these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors.
- Garlic Bread: This crispy delight is perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness.
- Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a nice contrast to the soup’s creaminess.
- Cornbread: A sweet and buttery cornbread balances the savory notes of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients that round out the meal nicely.
- Stuffed Peppers: These can be made ahead and offer a hearty option alongside your soup.
- Cheese Quesadillas: Quick to prepare, they are great for dipping and add a cheesy element to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Skipping the broth quality: Using low-quality broth can lead to bland soup. Always opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better flavor control.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking to ensure it stays al dente.
- Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can result in a flat taste. Taste as you go and adjust with salt or herbs as needed.
- Neglecting vegetable prep: Cutting vegetables unevenly can affect their cooking time. Ensure even chopping for consistent texture and doneness.
- Not letting chicken rest: Shredding chicken while it’s hot makes it difficult to handle. Allow it to cool slightly for easier shredding.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top of containers for expansion.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until evenly heated.
- Stovetop: Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup thicker?
You can add a cornstarch slurry or reduce the soup by simmering longer. This will give your soup a heartier consistency.
Can I use other types of noodles in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with any pasta you enjoy, like egg noodles or even gluten-free options.
What vegetables can I add to my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
You can include peas, green beans, or even spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight as flavors meld together.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of warmth that’s perfect for any day!
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting embrace of this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners. Bursting with tender shredded chicken, plump noodles, and a colorful medley of nutritious vegetables, this hearty soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Customize it to your taste by adding your favorite veggies or swapping out the pasta type. Whether it’s served fresh or reheated from the freezer, each bowl promises warmth and flavor that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 5 cups water
- 3–4 skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 medium carrots (2 grated, 1 sliced)
- 2 medium celery stalks (chopped)
- 2 cups pasta (like rotini or egg noodles)
- 1 cup corn (canned or cooked)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh dill and seasoning to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, and salt; bring to a boil and add chicken thighs. Cook uncovered for about 20 minutes.
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté onion until softened. Add grated carrots and chopped celery; cook until golden.
- Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot along with sliced carrots, corn, and pasta. Cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- In a saucepan, melt butter; whisk in flour and gradually add hot broth until smooth. Stir in heavy cream before combining with the soup.
- Season with dill and any additional seasoning; bring to a final boil before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added richness, use full-fat cream instead of half-and-half. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like peas or green beans for extra nutrition.