If you’re craving something heartwarming, nourishing, and downright delicious, this Creamy Homemade Chicken Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a classic staple we all love, bursting with tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs that combine to create a comforting bowl of pure joy. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re feeling under the weather, this soup not only warms you up but also fills you with cozy, homemade goodness that’s hard to beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting this soup is surprisingly simple because the ingredients are both essential and incredibly flavorful contributors. Each one plays a perfect role in building the rich taste, inviting aroma, and beautiful texture that make this dish so memorable.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base and helps soften veggies to release their flavors.
- Onion: Provides a sweet, savory foundation that deepens the soup’s flavor.
- Garlic: Boosts complexity and warmth with its aromatic punch.
- Carrots: Brings natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
- Celery stalks: Offers a subtle earthiness and crisp texture.
- Chicken broth: The heart of the soup, giving a rich, savory depth.
- Bay leaf: Infuses gentle herbal undertones that elevate every spoonful.
- Thyme: Adds a fresh, woodsy note that’s classic in chicken soups.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Tender protein that makes this soup so satisfying.
- Egg noodles (optional): Provides comfort with a tender, chewy bite.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to brighten and balance the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Homemade Chicken Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Stir frequently, allowing these ingredients to soften and become fragrant—this first step is crucial for building that classic comforting flavor base we all crave.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Herbs
Next, pour in six cups of your chicken broth and toss in a bay leaf and a teaspoon of thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This simmering stage lets the herbs infuse and marry with the veggies, creating layers of warmth and aroma that feel truly homemade.
Step 3: Introduce Chicken and Noodles
Once the broth is boiling, stir in two cups of cooked, shredded chicken and the optional cup of egg noodles if you’re using them. Lower the heat and let everything simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the noodles are tender and flavors fully meld. The chicken adds that meaty richness, while the noodles give a hearty bite that’s perfect in any warming soup.
Step 4: Season and Serve Hot
Finally, remove the bay leaf, then season to taste with salt and pepper. Give the soup a final stir, ladle it into bowls, and get ready to enjoy this classic, wholesome meal that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.
How to Serve Creamy Homemade Chicken Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your soup by topping it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few chopped chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice can add some lively brightness that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty piece of artisan bread or a warm, buttery biscuit to soak up every last drop. For a lighter choice, a crisp green salad or steamed green beans add a perfect contrast in texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic ceramic bowls for that cozy, homey feel or try mini bread bowls for an eye-catching and edible presentation. For gatherings, offer toppings like shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or even a dash of hot sauce to let your guests customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in airtight containers and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or comforting evening meals later in the week.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully! Just cool it completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat the soup slowly over medium heat on the stove to keep the chicken tender and the vegetables intact. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or water if it needs loosening up, ensuring every spoonful tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle or grain?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional here, you can substitute with rice, quinoa, or any pasta you like. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re perfectly tender.
Is this soup suitable for freezing with noodles already added?
It’s generally better to freeze this soup without the noodles, as they can become mushy upon thawing. Add fresh noodles when reheating for the best texture.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, swap the chicken and chicken broth for vegetable broth and add your favorite plant-based protein or extra hearty vegetables to keep it rich and satisfying.
How can I make the soup creamier without adding cream?
Simmer some potatoes along with the vegetables and mash a few into the broth to create a natural creaminess. Alternatively, blending a small portion of the soup and stirring it back in works wonders.
What fresh herbs work well besides thyme?
Fresh parsley, dill, or even a tiny amount of rosemary can add delightful variations in flavor. Adding herbs at the end of cooking preserves their freshness and aroma.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Homemade Chicken Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe is just the kind of timeless comfort food that makes your kitchen feel like the coziest place on earth. It’s simple, satisfying, and adaptable — perfect for any occasion when you want a bowl of warmth and happiness. Give it a try soon; I promise it will become one of your go-to recipes as it has for so many of us who cherish that homemade love in every spoonful.
