Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you need a little warmth. This rich and hearty soup combines tender chicken, soft noodles, and a creamy broth that will soothe and satisfy. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Base:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Roux:

1. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it forms a paste and begins to turn golden.

Add Broth and Seasonings:

1. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
2. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Add Noodles and Cream:

1. Stir in the heavy cream and egg noodles. Continue to simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked and the soup has thickened.

Adjust Seasonings:

1. Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Serve:

1. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use another type of noodle?
   Yes, you can use other types of noodles, like orzo or pasta shells, as a substitute for egg noodles.
2. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Yes, you can make it in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
   Yes, this soup can be frozen. However, the noodles may become soft upon reheating. For best results, freeze the soup without noodles and add them when reheating.
4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the soup may not be as creamy.
5. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free flour for the roux and ensure the chicken broth and noodles are gluten-free.
6. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like peas or green beans for extra nutrition.
7. What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
   You can use dried parsley, but fresh parsley will add a better flavor.
8. How can I make this soup spicier?
   Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for some heat.
9. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for this soup and adds extra flavor.
10. How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?
    Cook the noodles separately and add them to the soup just before serving if you plan to store leftovers.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect meal for a cozy day. With its rich and comforting flavors, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying and delicious meal!