Craving a warm, comforting meal that the whole family will devour? Look no further! This creamy chicken noodle soup recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner, this homemade classic is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the ultimate in comfort food with this simple and satisfying recipe. It's a healthy meal, a quick dinner idea, and one of the best recipes for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a wonderful flavor base for your soup.
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Add the broth and chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Cook the noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and thyme. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
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Stir in the cream: Once the noodles are cooked, carefully stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Be gentle to avoid curdling.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup:
- For extra flavor: Use homemade chicken broth if you have some on hand. The depth of flavor will elevate this dish significantly.
- Don't overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles will become mushy. Follow the package directions carefully and check for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time.
- Adjust the cream: If you prefer a thinner soup, reduce the amount of cream. Conversely, for a richer, creamier soup, add a little more.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, peas, or green beans.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Chicken Noodle Soup: Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon at the end for a bright, tangy twist.
- Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: Substitute wild rice for the egg noodles for a hearty and flavorful variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy chicken noodle soup recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a testament to the fact that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with your loved ones! It’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!