When the weather turns chilly or you’re simply craving a bowl of something warm and satisfying, nothing hits the spot quite like a hearty serving of creamy chicken noodle soup. This classic dish combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and comforting noodles, all enveloped in a rich, creamy broth. It’s a timeless recipe that brings both nourishment and comfort to the table.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons butter, chicken fat, or olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs (4 or 5 thighs)
- 6 cups chicken stock or broth (low sodium or homemade)
- 5 ounces egg noodles or pasta of choice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ to ½ cup heavy cream
- Pinch or two of crushed red chili peppers (optional, for heat)Bon Appétit+6Melissa Jo Real Recipes+6Food.com+6
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter, chicken fat, or olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Create the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, forming a light roux that will thicken the soup.
3. Build the Soup Base:
Add the bay leaves and thyme to the pot. Gradually pour in the chicken stock or broth, stirring to combine and prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Submerge the chicken thighs into the simmering broth. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chicken cook for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to combine.
6. Add the Noodles:
Bring the soup back to a gentle boil. Add the egg noodles or pasta of your choice, cooking according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.Wikipedia+3natashaskitchen.com+3Wikipedia+3
7. Finish with Cream and Seasoning:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, adjusting the amount to reach your desired level of creaminess. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and crushed red chili peppers (if using) to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs from the soup. Ladle the creamy chicken noodle soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Options: While chicken thighs provide a rich flavor, you can substitute with chicken breasts or use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as peas, corn, or spinach to enhance the nutritional value and add variety.
- Herb Substitutions: If fresh thyme isn’t available, dried thyme or a blend of Italian herbs can be used to impart a similar flavor profile.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- Noodle Choices: Egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or even rice for a gluten-free option.
Storage and Reheating:
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency, as the noodles may absorb some of the liquid over time. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
This creamy chicken noodle soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Whether you’re seeking solace on a cold day or simply craving a hearty dish, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.