Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup with Bacon

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich cream in a flavorful broth. This soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a warm, comforting meal. The addition of bacon adds a smoky depth of flavor that takes this classic dish to the next level.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
• 0.5 pounds bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium carrots (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 0.33 pounds egg noodles
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil if needed (there may be enough bacon fat left to sauté the vegetables).
2. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Soup Base

1. Sprinkle the flour (if using) over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
3. Add the dried thyme and rosemary, and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Noodles

1. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
2. Add the egg noodles to the simmering soup. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

1. Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream.
2. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly and warm through.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the soup from heat and stir in the crispy bacon.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.

Cook’s Notes

• Chicken: You can use leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or poach chicken breasts specifically for this recipe.
• Noodles: Egg noodles work best in this soup, but you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Thickening: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of flour to 3 tablespoons or let the soup simmer longer after adding the cream.

Variations

Cheesy Chicken Noodle Soup

Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese after adding the cream for a rich, cheesy version of this soup.

Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup

Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.

Vegetable-Packed Chicken Noodle Soup

Add additional vegetables like spinach, peas, or corn to make the soup heartier and more nutritious.

Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup

Use gluten-free egg noodles and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra broth if needed.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that the noodles may become slightly mushy after thawing. To avoid this, freeze the soup without the noodles and add them when reheating. Freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

4. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad.

5. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute milk for heavy cream, but the soup will be less rich and creamy. For a compromise, use half-and-half.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup with Bacon is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy broth makes this soup irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, a simple dinner, or a way to use up leftover chicken, this recipe has you covered. Serve it up with your favorite side and enjoy a bowl of delicious homemade soup that’s sure to satisfy!