As the cold weather sets in, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup to warm you up from the inside out. This recipe is a guaranteed favorite, offering a perfect blend of creamy richness, savory chicken flavor, and comforting textures.
Here’s what makes this recipe the ultimate comfort food:
- Creamy Delight: The addition of heavy cream creates a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture, elevating the classic chicken noodle soup to a new level of indulgence.
- Customizable Chicken: The recipe offers the flexibility to either cook the chicken directly in the soup or use pre-cooked chicken, allowing you to tailor it to your preference and available time.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of aromatics, herbs, and spices creates a deeply flavorful broth that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
- Simple Steps: Despite its restaurant-worthy taste, this recipe comes together in a few easy steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will bring comfort and satisfaction on even the chilliest of days.
Ingredients:
- For the Base:
- ⅓ cup salted butter (75g)
- 1 heaping cup onion, diced (approximately 140g)
- 2 cups carrots, cut into coins (approximately 290g)
- 2 cups chopped celery (usually 4 stalks, approximately 220g)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour (approximately 23g)
- Seasoning and Broth:
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- 6-8 cups chicken broth (see note) (between 1.4 and 1.9 liters)
- Chicken and Noodles:
- 1 ½ lbs uncooked chicken (see note) (approximately 680g)
- 8 oz uncooked egg noodles (226g)
- Creamy Finish:
- ½ cup heavy cream (118ml)
Instructions:
(Refer to the original instructions for the detailed step-by-step process)
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Sauté the Veggies: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
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Make the Roux and Season: Add the flour to the pot and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly. This roux will thicken the soup. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and dried parsley.
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Broth and Chicken: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring a smooth consistency. Bring to a simmer. Here, the recipe offers a choice: add the uncooked chicken breasts directly to the broth and simmer until cooked through (around 15-20 minutes), or use pre-cooked and shredded chicken.
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Shred the Chicken (if applicable): If cooking the chicken in the soup, remove it once cooked, shred it, and return it to the pot.
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Noodles and Cream: Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 6-10 minutes. Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream and heat for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Serve and Enjoy! Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve your creamy chicken noodle soup hot and enjoy a comforting and delicious meal!
Conclusion:
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and classic flavors. So, pull out your favorite soup pot, gather your loved ones, and cozy up with this heartwarming dish that is sure to chase away the chill and bring a smile to your face.