Description
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender chicken, a medley of sautéed vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth infused with cream cheese, cheddar, and savory spices. Perfect for chilly days, this soup combines angel hair pasta with a delicious blend of ingredients for a satisfying meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Chicken and Dairy
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Broth and Seasoning
- 1 10.5 oz. can condensed chicken soup
- 7 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 cup water
- 1 Tablespoon Ranch dressing mix
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz. angel hair uncooked
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, chopped celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are just tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its flavor.
- Add Chicken and Liquids: Stir in the chopped cooked chicken, condensed chicken soup, low-sodium chicken stock, water, whole milk, softened cream cheese, Ranch dressing mix, and smoked paprika. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, ensuring the cream cheese is blended smoothly into the broth.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to develop its creamy texture.
- Cook the Pasta and Add Cheese: Add the uncooked angel hair pasta and cheddar cheese to the simmering soup. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken stock to control the salt content.
- For a thicker soup, add a bit more cream cheese or reduce the liquid slightly.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent curdling.
- Angel hair pasta cooks quickly, so watch closely to avoid overcooking the noodles.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and omit the cream cheese.
