Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Introduction

Warm your soul with a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup. This classic recipe is a go-to for chilly days or when you need a comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for any day of the week. It’s a one-pot meal that comes together quickly, making it great for busy weeknights or whenever you need a quick and delicious dinner option.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450g)
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked ditalini pasta (or egg noodles or another small pasta shape)
• 1 cup half and half or cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Add oil to a 4-quart Dutch oven or soup pot and heat over medium-high heat.
2. Add carrots, celery, and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add salt, garlic, parsley, thyme, and pepper. Cook and stir for 1 minute.
4. Add broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to remove any bits that might be stuck on.
5. Add the chicken breasts and bring back to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook for 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken breasts to shred.
6. Stir in pasta, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes or until al dente.
7. Whisk together cream and cornstarch. When pasta is cooked, stir cream into the soup with shredded chicken and cook for a couple of minutes until thickened. Adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper. Pair it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut to save time.
• Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables like peas or spinach.
• For a thicker soup, add more cornstarch mixed with cold water.

Variation

For a dairy-free version, substitute the half and half with coconut milk for a creamy, yet dairy-free option.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts in the soup?
   • Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor to the soup.
2. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
   • It is not recommended to freeze soups with cream-based ingredients, as they can separate when thawed.
3. What other herbs can I add for more flavor?
   • You can add dried thyme, rosemary, or a bay leaf for additional herbaceous notes.