Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup to warm you up on a chilly day or soothe you when you’re feeling under the weather. This comforting recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that can be made with simple pantry staples. Packed with tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a velvety broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make this creamy chicken noodle soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cartons (32 oz each) chicken broth: You can also use 8 cups of water with bouillon cubes if you prefer.
• 2 cans (10 3/4 oz each) condensed cream of celery: Adds creaminess and depth of flavor to the broth.
• 1 white onion, finely diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
• 1 cup sliced carrots: Adds a hint of sweetness and a pop of color.
• 3 cups uncooked egg noodles: Gives the soup a hearty texture.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley: Adds a touch of earthy freshness.
• ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning: Enhances the savory flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat.
• ½ cup sour cream: Gives the soup its signature creaminess.

Ingredient Alternatives and Substitutions

• Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter flavor.
• Cream of Celery: Substitute with cream of chicken or mushroom soup if needed.
• Noodles: Gluten-free pasta or whole wheat noodles are great alternatives.
• Chicken: Leftover turkey or tofu can be used for a different protein source.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To prepare this creamy chicken noodle soup, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pot lid

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Combine the Broth and Vegetables
   Start by placing a large soup pot over high heat. Add the chicken broth, cream of celery soup, diced onion, and sliced carrots. Bring the mixture to a boil.
   Tip: Cover the pot with a lid to help the vegetables cook faster and retain moisture.
2. Simmer the Vegetables
   Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
   Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. Add the Noodles and Chicken
   Stir in the egg noodles, shredded chicken, dried parsley, poultry seasoning, and black pepper. Increase the heat to high to bring the soup back to a boil.
4. Cook the Noodles
   Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked to your desired tenderness.
   Tip: Taste the broth midway to adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Incorporate the Sour Cream
   Turn off the heat and gently stir in the sour cream until well combined. This will give the soup its signature creamy texture.
   Tip: For an extra creamy soup, add an extra spoonful of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or a slice of crusty bread on the side.

Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

• Use High-Quality Chicken Broth: The broth is the base of the soup, so choose a good quality one for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: To avoid mushy noodles, cook them just until they are al dente.
• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Lid: Keeping the lid on while simmering helps vegetables soften more quickly and retains all the flavors.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Egg noodles can become too soft if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and check frequently.
• Adding Sour Cream Too Early: Adding the sour cream while the soup is still boiling can cause it to curdle. Always add it after removing the pot from the heat.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Garnish Creatively: Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added flair.
• Serve with Sides: Pair with a side salad or a warm piece of bread to make a complete meal.
• Use Decorative Bowls: Serve in bright, contrasting bowls to make the creamy soup look even more inviting.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Be aware that noodles may soften further upon reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup without adding the noodles and sour cream. Store in the fridge and add these ingredients when reheating.

2. What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Any cooked chicken will work, but rotisserie chicken adds a depth of flavor and is convenient.

3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles and check the labels on the cream of celery soup and broth to ensure they are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken noodle soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a soothing meal to lift your spirits, this soup has you covered. Give it a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes.

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