Introduction to Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
When the weather turns chilly or you simply crave a dish that wraps you in warmth, there’s nothing quite like a homemade soup. This easy creamy chicken noodle soup brings together tender chicken, comforting egg noodles, and a rich, creamy broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. But why should you make your own soup?
Why Make Your Own Soup?
Creating your own soup allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that each bowl is packed with wholesome goodness. Store-bought soups often contain preservatives, excess sodium, and artificial flavors. By making your soup, you can use fresh vegetables and quality chicken, tailoring the flavors to match your palate. Not to mention, the wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen is a comforting precursor to deliciousness.
Furthermore, cooking at home can save you money. According to the USDA, making meals at home can cut your food expenses significantly. Plus, there's a certain joy that comes from crafting something warm and delightful to share with friends or family. If you're looking to impress, serve this soup alongside crusty bread for the perfect winter meal.
For more delicious soups, check out this guide on the benefits of homemade meals. Let's dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Essential ingredients you’ll need
Making this easy creamy chicken noodle soup is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need to gather for that comforting bowl:
- Celery: 2 sticks, chopped finely for a nice crunch.
- Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and chopped finely, adding sweetness and color.
- Onion: ½ medium onion, chopped to enhance the flavor base.
- Olive oil & Butter: A tablespoon of each for sautéing and richness.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, because who doesn’t love garlic?
- Flour: ¼ cup to thicken the soup.
- Chicken broth: 4 cups for a hearty, savory base.
- Chicken: 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast for protein.
- Italian seasoning: Just a pinch will do (¼ teaspoon).
- Heavy cream: 1 cup for that indulgent creaminess.
- Egg noodles: 2 generous cups of uncooked noodles to soak up all that goodness.
- Salt & pepper: To taste, of course!
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped for a fresh finish.
Optional add-ins for extra flavor
Feeling adventurous? Consider jazzing up your soup with these optional add-ins:
- Spinach or Kale: A handful for some healthy greens; add it just before serving.
- Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham: For a smokier flavor that pairs well with chicken.
- Peas: Frozen peas can add a pop of sweetness and color.
- Crispy Onions: For garnishing, adding a delightful crunch on top.
Feel free to experiment! A little twist can turn a simple recipe into your go-to comfort dish. Check out more tips on enhancing your soup here for inspiration!
Step-by-step Preparation of Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Making a warm and comforting bowl of easy creamy chicken noodle soup is a delightful experience! Here’s how to bring this cozy dish to life step-by-step.
Gather your ingredients
Before we dive into cooking, let’s ensure you have everything you need at your fingertips. Here's a quick list to check off:
- 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped finely
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1.5 pounds uncooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 2 generous cups uncooked egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Feeling a bit distracted? It’s totally normal! A great tip is to lay out the ingredients on your countertop. This visual cue will help keep your focus while cooking.
Sauté the vegetables
Now that you’re all set, heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and butter. Once it’s heated, toss in the finely chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and aromatic. This step lays the flavor foundation for your soup!
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds. You’ll want to be sure not to let the garlic burn, or it'll give your soup a bitter taste.
Cook the chicken in the broth
Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the flour over your softened veggies and stir for about a minute. This will help thicken your soup later. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the flour is fully dissolved.
Add the chicken breasts and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiled, cover the pot slightly with the lid and reduce the heat so it’s simmering gently for about 10 minutes. This will gently cook your chicken while enriching the broth.
Add the cream and noodles
After 10 minutes, it’s time to introduce the creamy element! Stir in the heavy cream, which will add that irresistible richness to your broth. Don’t forget to add in the uncooked egg noodles now, too! Cover the pot again, letting it simmer with the lid slightly open for another 8-10 minutes.
Make sure to stir halfway through to prevent those noodles from sticking together.
Final touches and season to taste
Once the noodles are al dente, remove the chicken from the pot. Shred or cut it into pieces and add it back to the soup for a hearty finish. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste; this is where you can really make the flavors pop.
Now, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Serve your warm easy creamy chicken noodle soup immediately, and enjoy those cozy vibes!
Feeling adventurous? Check out some additional tips for customizing your soup here. Enjoy!
Variations of Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Add some greens
Want to amp up your easy creamy chicken noodle soup? Toss in some fresh spinach, kale, or even broccoli! Adding greens not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value, giving you an extra dose of vitamins. A handful of spinach added just before serving will wilt perfectly into the soup, making it both healthy and colorful.
Make it spicy!
If you're a fan of a little heat, why not spice up your creamy chicken noodle soup? You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle in some hot sauce for that extra kick. For a more robust flavor, consider jalapeños or a dash of cumin. This simple addition transforms your soothing soup into a delightful, warming dish that awakens your taste buds! Want more spice inspiration? Check out this guide on how to spice up soups.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Using Leftovers
If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or even turkey, feel free to swap it into your easy creamy chicken noodle soup. Just add it closer to the end of cooking to warm it through. This is a fantastic way to cut down on prep time, and it adds an extra layer of flavor to your soup!
Storing and Reheating
To store your soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream, as the egg noodles will absorb some of the liquid. For quick reheating, using the stovetop will yield the best result, but you can also use the microwave for convenience. Enjoy your cozy bowl at work or home!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Perfect Pairings
Looking to elevate your easy creamy chicken noodle soup experience? Pair it with some warm, crusty bread or a side salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, can add a fresh layer of flavor. You might even consider serving it with some crispy turkey bacon or roasted chicken ham for a delicious twist.
Ideal Serving Temperatures
For the best taste and comfort, serve your soup piping hot! It’s ideal at around 165°F, ensuring that it's both delicious and safe to eat. As it cools, the flavors can become muted, so a quick reheat may be necessary if not consumed right away. Remember, if you have leftovers, adding a splash of broth or cream when reheating will keep it creamy and enjoyable.
Time Breakdown for Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Preparation Time
In just 10 minutes, you can gather and chop your ingredients, ensuring everything is prepped for a smooth cooking experience. It's a great time to gather your favorite kitchen tools, too!
Cooking Time
The cooking process takes about 40 minutes. During this time, you'll simmer the chicken and veggies to develop rich flavors, making your kitchen smell heavenly.
Total Time
In a mere 50 minutes, you’ll have a delightful bowl of easy creamy chicken noodle soup ready to warm your soul. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
For a deeper dive into the recipe, be sure to check out resources on Noodle Cooking Techniques, which could enhance your skills further. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Calories
A comforting bowl of easy creamy chicken noodle soup contains approximately 396 calories per serving. This makes it a satisfying yet manageable meal option for a cold day or a busy weeknight.
Protein
You'll benefit from about 28 grams of protein in each serving. This is perfect for keeping your energy levels up, especially after a long day at work!
Sodium
It's important to be mindful of sodium, and this soup has about 765 mg per serving. This can vary based on the chicken broth used, so consider a low-sodium option for a healthier twist.
FAQ about Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a great time-saver. Just add it to the pot along with the broth, and let it simmer until fully cooked. Be sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. This way, you can enjoy your easy creamy chicken noodle soup without any extra prep!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you're looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, there are several alternatives to heavy cream. You can use half-and-half, coconut milk, or even a blend of Greek yogurt and milk for a creamy texture. Just keep in mind that using these substitutes might slightly change the flavor and richness of your soup.
How do I store leftover soup?
Storing your easy creamy chicken noodle soup is simple! Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back its creamy consistency, as the noodles tend to absorb the soup over time.
Conclusion on Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
This easy creamy chicken noodle soup is a delightful way to warm up on chilly days. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it transforms an ordinary meal into a special occasion. Give it a try—you’ll love how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is. Happy cooking!
Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Equipment
- large soup pot
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 sticks celery chopped finely
- 2 medium carrots peeled & chopped finely
- ½ medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Base
- ¼ cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts boneless skinless
Seasonings
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Cream and Noodles
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 2 generous cups uncooked egg noodles
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Sauté the celery, carrots, and onion with the butter & oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the flour has dissolved. Add in the chicken, Italian seasoning, and cream. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a slight boil. Cover the pot with the lid slightly open.
- Reduce the heat so it's simmering gently. Let it cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the noodles and cover the pot again (lid slightly open) for a further 8-10 minutes. Stir halfway to ensure the noodles aren't sticking.
- Take the chicken out of the pot and cut it up, then add it back in again. Season the soup with salt & pepper to taste, and stir in the fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
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