Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: A Bowl of Warmth and Comfort

Step into the embrace of comfort with our Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup – a timeless classic elevated to new heights. This soul-soothing recipe combines the familiar warmth of chicken noodle soup with a luxurious creaminess that will make every spoonful a moment of pure delight. Join us on a culinary journey as we unravel the secrets behind crafting this heartwarming dish, where tender chicken, al dente noodles, and a velvety broth come together to create the epitome of comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces wide egg noodles, cooked

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Roux

1. Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring continuously to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Add a bay leaf for aromatic depth.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Noodles

1. Add shredded cooked chicken and frozen peas to the simmering broth.
2. Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently to incorporate. Continue simmering for an additional 10 minutes.
3. Fold in the cooked egg noodles, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

1. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
2. Remove the bay leaf and discard.
3. Ladle the Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup into bowls.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy

1. Garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

Cook Notes

• For a time-saving option, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
• To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sautéed vegetables.

Variations

Vegetable Medley

• Enhance the soup’s nutritional profile by incorporating additional vegetables like spinach, kale, or diced tomatoes.

Lemon Zest Infusion

• Elevate the soup with a touch of citrus by adding lemon zest to the broth just before serving.

Herb Garden Symphony

• Experiment with a variety of fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, or chives, for an aromatic twist.

Keto Version

For those on a keto journey, savor the warmth with these modifications:

For the Soup:

• Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for the roux.
• Use cauliflower florets instead of peas for a low-carb alternative.

For the Noodles:

• Opt for spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles in place of traditional egg noodles.

Dairy Choices:

• Replace heavy cream with a blend of unsweetened almond or coconut milk and cream cheese.

Additional Variations:

• Incorporate keto-friendly vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.

Low-Carb Version

Trim down the carbs without compromising on taste:

For the Soup:

• Swap all-purpose flour with coconut or almond flour for thickening.
• Substitute peas with green beans or bell peppers for a lower-carb option.

For the Noodles:

• Choose low-carb alternatives like spiralized zucchini or konjac noodles.

Dairy Choices:

• Opt for unsweetened almond or coconut milk in place of heavy cream.

Additional Variations:

• Integrate low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a bowl of pure comfort that transcends seasons and brings joy to the table. Whether you follow the classic recipe, explore tempting variations, or opt for keto and low-carb adaptations, this soup is a versatile canvas for culinary creativity. Share it with loved ones on chilly evenings, savor it as a quick weeknight meal, or simply revel in the joy of crafting a dish that warms both the body and the soul. Let each spoonful transport you to a realm of cozy comfort, where the combination of tender chicken, al dente noodles, and velvety broth creates a symphony of flavors that lingers long after the last sip. Elevate your soup experience with Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup – a bowl of warmth that embraces the essence of home-cooked goodness!