Pairing creamy chicken noodle soup with egg noodles is all about creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. The richness of the soup calls for accompaniments that add contrast or enhance its comforting essence.
First, a slice of crusty bread, such as sourdough or a crispy baguette, is the perfect choice. Its crunchiness is a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy texture of the soup, and it can soak up every bit of the flavorful broth. If you’re looking to introduce freshness, a simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette can do wonders.
The crispness of the salad balances out the rich, creamy soup, offering a light and refreshing element to the meal. For a cheesy twist, adding grated Parmesan or a dollop of cream cheese can elevate the soup with an extra layer of creaminess and depth.
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top not only add a burst of color but also contribute a fresh, aromatic touch that contrasts beautifully with the rich soup.
Finally, a handful of crackers—whether saltines or buttery ones—adds the perfect amount of crunch, enhancing the texture and providing a satisfying bite. With these pairings, your creamy chicken noodle soup experience becomes even more delightful and complete.
What is Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles?
Creamy chicken noodle soup, at its core, is a blend of savory chicken broth and tender egg noodles, elevated by a creamy base. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity, creating a dish that warms and delights.
Chicken, seasoned to perfection, mingles with vegetables, herbs, and, of course, those chewy egg noodles.
But don’t let the name fool you—this dish is more than just a weeknight dinner. It evokes memories of childhood, family dinners, and home-cooked love.
What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles?
What’s unique about my version of creamy chicken noodle soup lies in the thoughtful combination of ingredients and technique.
1. Homemade Stock: Using rich homemade chicken stock infuses deeper flavor into the soup compared to store-bought options.
2. Fresh Vegetables: Many recipes call for frozen vegetables, but I prefer using fresh. The crunch of fresh carrots and celery, sautéed until just tender, gives texture.
3. Seasoning: While some recipes may stick to basic salt and pepper, you’ll find a mix of spices here—thyme, smoked paprika, and a hint of oregano. This provides a far more complex flavor profile.
4. Creamy Base: Instead of heavy cream, using half-and-half strikes the perfect balance for creaminess without overwhelming heaviness.
5. Egg Noodles: The addition of wide egg noodles sets this dish apart, offering a delightful chew that’s perfectly suited for soaking up the soup’s flavors.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine that first spoonful. The broth is rich—savory, slightly creamy, and fully fledged. The chicken is tender and goes down easy. Those egg noodles become a delightful vehicle for flavor, making every taste feel like a warm hug.
This soup has layers of flavor, from the seasoned broth to the fresh vegetables. At the same time, it’s simple enough to allow the individual ingredients to shine.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this bowl of joy to life:
- 8 cups chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup diced or chopped celery (2–3 stalks)
- 1 cup diced or sliced carrots
- 3/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion (about half of a large onion)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 3 cups uncooked wide egg noodles (or another type of pasta, as preferred)
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme sprigs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Veggies
Start by chopping your vegetables. Peel and dice the potato. Dice or chop the celery and carrots. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in this soup, so take your time during this step.
Step 2: Sauté the Sofrito
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until they are tender, approximately 5 minutes. You’ll notice how the onion becomes translucent and sweet.
Step 3: Create the Base
Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed veggies and stir well. This step helps thicken your soup later. Cook the flour for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flavor.
Step 4: Add Stock and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken stock slowly, stirring to combine. Add the diced potato, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss in the bay leaf, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Stir
Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes, just enough to soften the potatoes. Stir occasionally to keep everything well balanced.
Step 6: Noodle Time
Stir in the egg noodles and cooked chicken. Cook according to the noodle package directions, typically around 6-8 minutes. The noodles should be tender but not overcooked.
Step 7: Make it Creamy
After the noodles are cooked, slowly stir in the half-and-half, heating through without boiling. This is the moment when everything becomes wonderfully creamy.
Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste your masterpiece. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks on Making Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme during the final stages enchants the dish with brightness.
- Leftover Chicken: This soup is great for using up leftover chicken. Roasted or rotisserie chicken works beautifully.
- Thicker Soup: Want it thicker? Allow it to simmer longer or add a bit more flour in the beginning.
- Make Ahead: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with mushrooms and vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How Do I Store This Dish?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. Just remember—when reheating, you might need to add more broth or milk, as the noodles can absorb liquid.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup with Egg Noodles?
- Quinoa or Rice: For a gluten-free option, replace egg noodles with quinoa or cooked rice. The soup will still be delicious while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
- Zoodles: Zucchini noodles can be a low-carb alternative, though you’ll want to add them towards the end of cooking to prevent mushiness.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: If you want a shortcut, adding a can of cream of chicken soup can enhance creaminess and flavor.
- Frozen Vegetables: In a pinch, frozen mixed vegetables can substitute the fresh ones, keeping things easy and convenient.
- Canned Chicken: Though not as flavorful, you can use drained canned chicken in a hurry.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken noodle soup with egg noodles is more than just a meal; it is a source of comfort. It invites warmth, nostalgia, and flavors that make any day feel special.
With a few simple ingredients and some love, you can create a dish that will not only please your palate but also envelop you in a cozy embrace.
Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to create your hearty bowl of goodness! Cozying up to it with loved ones or simply enjoying a quiet moment alone can be a delightful experience.
Ready your spoon—it’s time to dig in!
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Description
A cold winter evening, thick blankets wrapped around you, and a steaming bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup resting in your hands. Does it get any better than this? I think not! This dish has a way of warming the soul while tantalizing the taste buds.
Creamy chicken noodle soup with egg noodles is not just food; it’s therapy in a bowl. The blend of savory broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles can instantly lift your spirits. On a day when the weather is less than delightful, this dish becomes a beacon of comfort.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this soup so special and how you can create your own, just like I do at home.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Veggies
-
Start by chopping your vegetables. Peel and dice the potato. Dice or chop the celery and carrots. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in this soup, so take your time during this step.
Step 2: Sauté the Sofrito
-
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until they are tender, approximately 5 minutes. You'll notice how the onion becomes translucent and sweet.
Step 3: Create the Base
-
Sprinkle the flour over your sautéed veggies and stir well. This step helps thicken your soup later. Cook the flour for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flavor.
Step 4: Add Stock and Potatoes
-
Pour in the chicken stock slowly, stirring to combine. Add the diced potato, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss in the bay leaf, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Stir
-
Allow the soup to simmer for about 15 minutes, just enough to soften the potatoes. Stir occasionally to keep everything well balanced.
Step 6: Noodle Time
-
Stir in the egg noodles and cooked chicken. Cook according to the noodle package directions, typically around 6-8 minutes. The noodles should be tender but not overcooked.
Step 7: Make it Creamy
-
After the noodles are cooked, slowly stir in the half-and-half, heating through without boiling. This is the moment when everything becomes wonderfully creamy.
Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serve
-
Taste your masterpiece. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 459kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 23.1g36%
- Saturated Fat 7.5g38%
- Cholesterol 104mg35%
- Sodium 797mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 17g6%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 43g86%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme during the final stages enchants the dish with brightness.
- Leftover Chicken: This soup is great for using up leftover chicken. Roasted or rotisserie chicken works beautifully.
- Thicker Soup: Want it thicker? Allow it to simmer longer or add a bit more flour in the beginning.
- Make Ahead: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with mushrooms and vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
