Ah, nothing says cozy quite like a warm bowl of **Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup**. This dish has been a staple in my home, especially on chilly evenings when the wind is howling outside, and I just want to wrap myself in a blanket with a good book and a comforting meal. There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about it—like a warm hug in a bowl! My mom would make this soup when I was feeling under the weather, or on those lazy Sunday afternoons when we just wanted to enjoy the simple things in life.
What makes this creamy chicken noodle soup unique is the combination of fresh vegetables and rich flavors, all brought together by the creamy broth. It’s easy to make and will fill your home with a delicious aroma. Plus, it’s the perfect way to use up leftover chicken! So, let’s get started on this comforting classic.
What’s in Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for sautéing. It adds a lovely depth and richness to the base of the soup.
Onion: Adds sweetness and flavor. I always prefer using a medium onion as it balances the taste perfectly.
Carrots: Diced carrots give the soup a pop of color and a hint of sweetness. They also add some healthy nutrients!
Celery: This crunchy veggie brings freshness and depth. Always dice it small to blend well with the other ingredients.
Garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic? Just a few cloves to really level up the flavor game.
Dried Thyme & Dried Rosemary: These fragrant herbs bring warmth and an earthy quality to the soup. A little goes a long way!
Chicken Broth: A rich base for the soup. I love using low-sodium broth so I can control the salt levels.
Cooked Shredded Chicken: The star of the dish! Use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand to make this even easier.
Egg Noodles: Ideal for soups! Their softness complements the creaminess without losing their shape.
Heavy Cream: It’s what turns this soup from good to absolutely luscious! Cream makes all the magic happen.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the flavor. Adjust these according to your taste.
Chopped Fresh Parsley: Optional, but it’s a lovely garnish that adds a splash of color and freshness.
Is Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health! While this soup is a delicious comfort food, it does have some fantastic benefits. For starters, the **chicken** provides a great source of protein, necessary for muscle repair and overall energy. The **carrots** and **celery** add essential vitamins and minerals to the mix—think Vitamin A from carrots, which is excellent for vision and skin health, and Vitamin K from celery!
However, let’s not forget about that lovely **heavy cream**. While it adds extra creaminess, it is calorie-dense, so moderation is key if you’re watching your intake. You can swap it out for half-and-half or even a lower-fat milk if you prefer. Just keep in mind, the final texture might be a tad less luxurious but still delicious!
Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
– 2 cups egg noodles
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
**Servings:** 6-8
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the **olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **chopped onion**, **diced carrots**, and **diced celery**. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the **minced garlic**, **dried thyme**, and **dried rosemary** to the pot, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the **chicken broth** and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, add the **cooked shredded chicken** and **egg noodles**. Cook according to the noodle package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the **heavy cream**. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 5 minutes.
6. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped **fresh parsley** if desired. Enjoy your creamy chicken noodle soup!
Comfort Tips for a Delightful Experience
– If you have time, make your chicken broth at home—it elevates the taste tenfold!
– Feel free to add in other vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and nutrition.
– A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens all the flavors and adds a lovely tang!
I’m so excited for you to try this delicious recipe! The next time you’re in need of comfort, grab your ingredients and whip up this creamy goodness. I promise it will warm your heart as much as it does your belly! Don’t forget to let me know how it turned out, and feel free to share any variations you come up with along the way. Happy cooking!
