Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: A Hearty and Comforting Delight

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup to soothe the soul and satisfy your hunger. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather, this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy broth to create a deliciously comforting meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is easy to make and sure to become a family favorite. Each serving is packed with 450 kcal, providing a hearty and nourishing dish.

Ingredients to Prepare

This recipe yields 6 servings. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable soup:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped
• 8 oz. spaghetti noodles, uncooked
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 (32 oz.) package low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (10.75 oz.) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 (1 oz.) package dry ranch seasoning mix
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

How to Make

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
• Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Add the Broth and Chicken:

• Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
• Stir in the chopped cooked chicken.

3. Cook the Noodles:

• Add the uncooked spaghetti noodles to the pot.
• Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10 minutes, until al dente.

4. Mix in the Soup and Seasonings:

• Reduce the heat to medium-low.
• Stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup, half-and-half, and dry ranch seasoning mix.
• Cook until the soup is well combined and heated through, about 5 minutes.

5. Add Cheese and Bacon:

• Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.
• Add the cooked and crumbled bacon, stirring to combine.

6. Season and Serve:

• Season the soup with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
• Serve hot and enjoy your Hearty Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Delight!

Helpful Tips

• Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor. You can also cook and chop your own chicken breasts or thighs.
• Vegetables: Ensure the vegetables are finely diced to cook evenly and blend well with the soup.
• Noodles: Break the spaghetti noodles into smaller pieces before adding them to the pot for easier eating.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice depth of flavor, but you can substitute with other types of cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
• Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more or less ranch seasoning mix depending on your preference.

Cooking Tips

• Uniform Cooking: Ensure all vegetables are diced to a similar size to ensure even cooking.
• Simmering: After adding the cream of chicken soup and half-and-half, reduce the heat to prevent the soup from boiling, which can cause the cream to curdle.
• Thickening: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the soup before adding the cheese and bacon.

Serving Suggestions

• Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or warm rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
• Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Toppings: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese for added flavor and presentation.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g
• Sugar: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Similar Recipes to Try

If you love this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup, you might enjoy trying these similar comforting soup recipes:

1. Classic Chicken Noodle Soup: A traditional version with clear broth, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a light and nourishing meal.

2. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Rich and creamy tomato soup with a hint of basil. Serve with grilled cheese for a classic pairing.

3. Cheesy Potato Soup: Loaded with potatoes, cheese, and bacon, this soup is hearty and satisfying. Top with green onions for extra flavor.

4. Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A creamy and cheesy soup featuring tender broccoli florets. Ideal for a cozy lunch or dinner.

5. Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Packed with all the flavors of a loaded baked potato, including cheese, bacon, and sour cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use different noodles?

• Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as egg noodles, rotini, or fusilli. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

• Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Cook the vegetables and chicken broth on low for 4-6 hours, then add the noodles, cream of chicken soup, half-and-half, and seasonings in the last 30 minutes.

3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the cream of chicken soup and ranch seasoning mix are gluten-free.

4. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

• Absolutely! This soup is a great way to use leftover turkey, especially after holidays like Thanksgiving.

5. How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

• If you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to individual servings. This prevents them from becoming mushy when reheated.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

• Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy broth. It’s perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or anytime you need a hearty and satisfying meal. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy this delicious soup with loved ones, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!

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