# Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
This creamy chicken noodle soup is a delightful creation that merges thick noodles, succulent pieces of chicken, and the savory notes of creamy thyme, garlic, and veggies. It’s a soothing dish that comforts the spirit, making it ideal for brisk evenings or whenever you seek a bit more solace.
## Why I Adore This Soup
A few nights ago, after a long day, I returned home from ballet with my daughters, and we were all famished. I had made this soup earlier, and it was awaiting us on the stove. As we gathered around the table with bowls of soup and slices of leftover sourdough, the atmosphere became quiet as we eagerly began to eat.
This soup is absolutely incredible. The mix of thick noodles, tender chicken, and the creamy notes of thyme and garlic creates a flavor sensation that is hard to resist. Even though I was never a major enthusiast of chicken noodle soup, this recipe has transformed my viewpoint completely.
At first, I wanted a thick version like chicken wild rice soup, but I became captivated by this lighter, brothier adaptation. It provides the opulent flavor of cream and herbs while maintaining the enjoyable slurpiness of a soup, making it feel just right for chicken noodle soup.
I found myself anticipating the leftovers all week, and I hope you enjoy it just as much!
## How To Prepare Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
### Ingredients
– Olive oil
– Onions
– Carrots
– Celery
– Garlic
– Thyme
– Chicken broth
– Noodles (preferably egg noodles)
– Cooked chicken
– Spinach (optional)
– Heavy cream
– Parmesan cheese (for serving)
### Instructions
1. **Cook Vegetables:** Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery; cook for 7-10 minutes until soft and beginning to caramelize.
2. **Add Seasoning and Herbs:** Mix in garlic, salt, and thyme sprigs; sauté for a minute until aromatic.
3. **Broth and Noodles:** Incorporate chicken broth and noodles. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for around 10 minutes, or until the noodles are soft.
4. **Finish:** Take off heat and remove the thyme sprigs. Add spinach, chicken, and cream. Stir to blend until everything is warmed through and the spinach is wilted. If oil separates on the surface, let it rest for 10-20 minutes to reabsorb, or stir if you’re in a hurry.
5. **Serve:** Delight in it with warm crusty bread and top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
### Cooking Time
– **Prep Time:** 10 minutes
– **Cook Time:** 20 minutes
– **Total Time:** 30 minutes
– **Yield:** 6 servings
## FAQ About Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
**How can you make this dairy-free?**
You can utilize a dairy-free heavy cream or gradually whisk in eggs to achieve creaminess.
**How can you make this vegetarian?**
Replace the chicken with a can of chickpeas.
**What do you serve with this soup?**
Oyster crackers make a wonderful addition, along with a green salad and crusty bread on the side.
**What noodles are best to use?**
I suggest Mrs. Miller’s egg noodles, but any egg noodle or wheat-based noodle such as orzo, ditalini, or rotini will be suitable.
## Conclusion
This creamy chicken noodle soup is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and fulfillment. Whether you savor it on a chilly day or share it with family, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!