Oh boy, do I have a cozy recipe to share with you today! There’s something about a big pot of **Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup** that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. It takes me back to chilly afternoons when my mom would simmer a batch on the stove, and the whole house would fill with that delightful aroma. Honestly, is there anything more comforting than a hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup? I think not!
What makes this recipe super special is how creamy and rich it turns out—but you still get that classic chicken noodle soup vibe we all know and love. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight, but fancy enough to impress your lunch guests (or just yourself). So grab a comfy chair, curl up with a blanket, and let’s dive into this deliciousness!
What’s in Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
Let’s break down the goodness you’ll need to make this delectable soup:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! These cook up tender and flavorful, making them perfect for shredding. I always opt for organic when I can—because, you know, chicken is life.
Chicken broth: This is the backbone of our soup! A good quality broth really makes a difference. I like to use low-sodium versions, but you can always go hearty with a regular one if you’d prefer.
Water: Just a little to help dilute the broth to the right consistency!
Egg noodles: These are my absolute favorite for chicken noodle soup. They soak up all the flavors and add that delightful chewy texture. If you find the non-egg type, feel free to substitute!
Carrots, celery, and onion: The holy trinity of soup veggies! They add flavor, color, and a little crunch. I like to dice them on the smaller side so they cook up nicely.
Garlic: Because who can resist that aromatic goodness?
Heavy cream: Here’s where the magic happens! A generous splash makes this soup luxuriously creamy. Go on—don’t skimp on it!
Olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper: The flavor enhancers that tie everything together. You can’t have soup without these essentials!
Fresh parsley: It’s not just for looks! A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and pizazz at the end.
Is Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! While this soup does a great job at comforting the soul, it also brings along some health perks:
Chicken breasts: These provide lean protein, which is perfect for muscle repair and keeps you feeling full.
Carrots: Packed with vitamins A and K, they’re great for your vision and skin. Plus, they’re a natural sweetness that balances out the broth.
Heavy cream: Alright, this is where you might want to watch it—heavy cream does add a lot of richness (and calories!), so enjoying this soup in moderation is wise. Alternatively, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter version.
As far as disadvantages go, the sodium in regular broth can be a concern if you’re watching your intake. But choosing low-sodium broth can help!
Ingredients List
To serve about 4 hearty bowls of soup, gather these ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
Ready to get your soup on? Here’s a step-by-step guide to whip this up:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Toss in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for another minute just until you can smell that delicious aroma.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil.
5. Add the chicken breasts to the pot, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks—don’t worry about it being perfect.
7. Stir in the egg noodles and cook per package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
8. Once the noodles are done, lower the heat and stir in that glorious heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Finally, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Warm and Cozy Soup Serving Suggestions
Oh, this soup is perfect for chilly days, but you’ll want to elevate your experience too! For an extra zing, consider a splash of lemon juice just before serving. And trust me, a slice of warm, crusty bread or some buttery crackers on the side will complement it perfectly.
So there you have it—my go-to recipe for **Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup** that will make your heart sing! It’s comforting, delicious, and a breeze to make. I can’t wait for you to try it out! Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you put on it. Happy cooking!
