Indulge in a comforting bowl of lightened-up creamy chicken noodle soup that's perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty yet healthy version features tender roasted chicken, flavorful vegetables, and wide egg noodles in a creamy, savory broth.
Photos of Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
If you're heading to the supermarket, most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in any kitchen. However, pay special attention to getting fresh thyme, as it adds an essential flavor. Also, ensure you have fat-free milk to keep this dish light while still creamy.
Ingredients for Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Unsalted butter: Used to sauté the vegetables, providing a rich base flavor.
Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor to the soup.
Carrots: Provide sweetness and color, also adding essential nutrients.
Celery: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor and a bit of crunch.
Garlic cloves: Enhances the savory taste of the soup.
All-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the soup, giving it a creamy consistency.
Oregano: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
Fresh ground black pepper: Provides a bit of heat and depth.
Fresh thyme: Offers a fresh, slightly minty aroma.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Chicken broth: Forms the base liquid of the soup, adding depth and richness.
Potato: Adds heartiness and helps to thicken the soup.
Roasted chicken: Provides protein and a rich, deep flavor.
Fat-free milk: Keeps the soup creamy without adding extra fat.
Wide egg noodles: Absorb the flavors of the soup and add a comforting texture.
One reader, Colas Galbraith says:
This lightened-up creamy chicken noodle soup is a game-changer! It's hearty, flavorful, and feels indulgent without the extra calories. The blend of veggies, tender chicken, and creamy broth is perfect for a cozy meal. Highly recommend!
Techniques for Making Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
How to sauté vegetables: Explanation on how to cook the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter until they are soft. How to make a roux: Explanation on how to cook flour with butter and seasonings to create a thickening base for the soup. How to simmer: Explanation on how to cook the soup gently at a low temperature to allow flavors to meld and ingredients to soften. How to boil: Explanation on how to bring the soup to a high temperature to cook the potatoes quickly. How to add seasoning: Explanation on how to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor. How to cook noodles in soup: Explanation on how to add noodles to the soup and cook until they are tender.
How To Make Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Here’s a lighter take on the classic chicken noodle soup. A creamy and hearty meal made with potatoes and carrots, this will surely leave you satisfied!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tbspunsalted butter
- ¾cupyellow onion,chopped
- 1cupcarrots,sliced
- 1cupcelery,sliced
- 2garlic cloves,minced
- ¼cupall-purpose flour
- ½tsporegano
- ½tspfresh ground black pepper
- 1tspfresh thyme
- ½tspsalt
- 8cupschicken broth
- 1½cupspotato,peeled and diced
- 2cupsroasted chicken,shredded
- 1cupfat-free milk,half-and-half or whole milk
- 4cupswide egg noodles,uncooked
Instructions
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Over medium heat, melt the butter in a large pot or dutch oven (4-quart or larger). Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for around 7 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.
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Add flour, oregano, pepper, thyme, and salt. Stir and cook for 3 minutes.
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Add the broth and potato. Give everything a quick stir, then increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the soup to a boil, without stirring, and boil for 3 minutes.
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Reduce the heat to medium-low, partially cover the pot, and allow to simmer for 25 minutes or until the potatoes have softened. Taste the soup; season if needed.
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Add the chicken, milk/half-and-half, and noodles. Cook for 10 minutes until the noodles are tender and the soup has thickened. Once again, taste the soup and add more seasoning as desired. Serve the soup warm.
Recipe Notes
- Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- To reheat, simply pour into a pot over medium heat and cook until warm.
- Soup thickens in the refrigerator as the noodles and potatoes soak up the liquid. Feel free to add more chicken broth to the leftovers if it’s too thick.
Nutrition
- Calories: 206.75kcal
- Fat: 7.09g
- Saturated Fat: 2.32g
- Trans Fat: 0.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.81g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.34g
- Carbohydrates: 23.38g
- Fiber: 1.56g
- Sugar: 4.94g
- Protein: 11.84g
- Cholesterol: 35.90mg
- Sodium: 370.97mg
- Calcium: 68.17mg
- Potassium: 432.76mg
- Iron: 1.45mg
- Vitamin A: 136.58µg
- Vitamin C: 6.46mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
When sautéing the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in the butter, make sure to cut the vegetables into uniform sizes. This ensures even cooking and enhances the overall texture of the soup.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic the night before to save time on cooking day.
Use rotisserie chicken: Buy a pre-cooked roasted chicken to skip the step of cooking and shredding the chicken yourself.
Opt for pre-cut vegetables: Purchase pre-cut potatoes and other vegetables to reduce prep time.
Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot to speed up the cooking process, especially for simmering the soup and softening the potatoes.
Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.
Substitute Ingredients For Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and provides a similar base for sautéing vegetables.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can add a subtle sweetness to the soup.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips offer a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor, adding depth to the soup.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel provides a slight anise flavor, which can add a unique twist to the soup.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable, though it may lack some of the fresh garlic's pungency.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent and is gluten-free.
oregano - Substitute with basil: Basil offers a different but complementary herbaceous note to the soup.
fresh ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and won't alter the color of the soup.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used in place of fresh thyme, though you may need to use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good alternative for a vegetarian version of the soup.
potato - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potatoes add a different texture and a slight sweetness to the soup.
roasted chicken - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based protein that can absorb the flavors of the soup.
fat-free milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a lower-calorie, dairy-free alternative that can still provide creaminess.
wide egg noodles - Substitute with zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles are a low-carb, gluten-free alternative that adds extra vegetables to the soup.
Presentation Tips for a Delightful Chicken Noodle Soup
Serve in a deep, wide-rimmed bowl: Choose a pristine white bowl to highlight the vibrant colors of the vegetables and broth. The wide rim allows for elegant garnishing.
Layer the ingredients: Start by placing a small mound of noodles in the center of the bowl. Arrange the roasted chicken pieces artistically around the noodles, ensuring each piece is visible.
Pour the broth carefully: Use a ladle to gently pour the chicken broth and vegetables around the noodles and chicken. This ensures the presentation remains neat and the ingredients are not disturbed.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped thyme and a few sprigs of parsley on top to add a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
Add a touch of creaminess: Drizzle a small amount of fat-free milk or a light cream in a circular motion around the bowl for an elegant finish.
Serve with a side of crusty bread: Place a slice of warm, crusty bread on a separate plate or a small wooden board to complement the soup and add a rustic touch.
Use a contrasting napkin: Pair the dish with a dark-colored napkin to make the colors of the soup pop and add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Large pot or dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup, this will hold all your ingredients and allow for even heating.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring the vegetables and soup to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring out the ingredients like butter, flour, and milk.
Measuring spoons: Important for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients such as spices and herbs.
Chef's knife: Ideal for chopping the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and potatoes.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping vegetables and other ingredients.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup once it's ready.
Peeler: Useful for peeling the potatoes before chopping them.
Timer: Helps keep track of cooking times to ensure each step is followed accurately.
Tongs: Useful for handling the roasted chicken and adding it to the soup.
Colander: Handy for draining the noodles if you choose to cook them separately before adding to the soup.
Storing and Freezing Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Allow the chicken noodle soup to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and help maintain the quality of the soup.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Place the container in the refrigerator.
- The soup will keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
To freeze the soup:
- Transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag.
- If using a container, leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Place the soup in the freezer.
- The soup will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
To reheat the soup:
- If frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the soup to a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
- If the soup appears too thick, you can add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.
Note: The egg noodles may become slightly softer and more delicate after freezing and reheating. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can cook the noodles separately and add them to the soup when reheating.
How to Reheat Leftover Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
To reheat leftover lightened-up creamy chicken noodle soup, start by transferring the desired portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the soup from drying out during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and steaming. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
For a stovetop method, pour the leftover soup into a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir the soup frequently to ensure even heating and to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If the soup appears too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out. Heat the soup until it reaches your desired temperature, then serve immediately.
If you have frozen your leftover creamy chicken noodle soup, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Once thawed, follow either the microwave or stovetop method mentioned above to reheat the soup. If the soup seems watery after thawing, you can simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes to reduce the liquid and restore its original consistency.
To maintain the best texture of the egg noodles in your leftover soup, avoid reheating them for too long, as they may become mushy. If you find that the noodles have absorbed much of the liquid during storage, you can add more chicken broth to the soup when reheating to achieve the desired consistency.
When reheating, be sure to check the internal temperature of the soup using a food thermometer. The soup should reach a temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to consume. Stir the soup well to distribute the heat evenly before checking the temperature.
Interesting Fact About Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
A random fact about this recipe is that using fat-free milk instead of cream significantly reduces the calorie content while still providing a creamy texture to the soup.
Is Making Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup at Home Cost-Effective?
This lightened-up creamy chicken noodle soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using basic ingredients like carrots, celery, and potatoes, along with roasted chicken and egg noodles, keeps the overall cost low. The use of fat-free milk instead of cream also helps in reducing expenses while maintaining a creamy texture. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $15-$20.
Is This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Healthy?
The lightened-up creamy chicken noodle soup recipe is a healthier take on the classic comfort food. Here's an analysis of its nutritional value:
Positives:
- The recipe uses unsalted butter, which helps control sodium intake
- Vegetables like onion, carrots, celery, and garlic provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Chicken broth is a good source of protein and can be low in fat if using a reduced-fat version
- Roasted chicken is a lean protein source
- Fat-free milk reduces the overall fat content of the soup
Negatives:
- All-purpose flour is used as a thickener, which is a refined carbohydrate
- The recipe contains 8 cups of chicken broth, which can be high in sodium if using a regular store-bought variety
- Wide egg noodles are a source of refined carbohydrates
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
- Opt for low-sodium or homemade chicken broth to reduce the sodium intake
- Replace half of the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or other spiralized vegetables to lower the carbohydrate content and increase the fiber
- Add more vegetables, such as spinach or kale, to boost the nutrient density of the soup
- Use a combination of milk and Greek yogurt instead of just milk to increase the protein content and create a creamier texture
By incorporating these changes, you can enhance the nutritional value of the soup while still maintaining its delicious flavor and comforting qualities. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying this lightened-up version of creamy chicken noodle soup as part of a balanced diet can be a satisfying and nourishing choice.
Editor's Opinion on This Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
This lightened-up creamy chicken noodle soup strikes a perfect balance between comfort and health. The use of fat-free milk and a modest amount of butter keeps it lighter without sacrificing flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme and oregano add depth, while the combination of roasted chicken and hearty vegetables ensures a satisfying meal. The method is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks. However, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a handful of fresh parsley at the end for a bright, fresh finish. Overall, it's a wholesome, delicious take on a classic favorite.
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Why trust this Lightened-Up Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe:
This lightened-up creamy chicken noodle soup recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking comfort without the guilt. Using fat-free milk and unsalted butter keeps it lighter, while the addition of roasted chicken and fresh thyme ensures rich, savory flavors. The combination of carrots, celery, and potato provides a hearty texture, making it a satisfying meal. Trust this recipe for its balanced approach to health and taste, perfect for cozy nights.
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