Instructions:
Step 1
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, then cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
Step 2
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
Step 3
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to cook away the raw flour taste.
Step 4
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
Step 5
Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir well and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors can develop.
Step 6
Add the pasta directly to the soup and cook according to the package directions until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the milk or heavy cream until fully incorporated.
Step 8
Allow the soup to gently simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the broth becomes creamy and slightly thickened. Do not let it boil after adding the dairy.
Step 9
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or thyme if needed.
Step 10
Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 11
Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Step 12
Serve warm with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or crackers for a comforting and complete meal.
Tips and Variations:
Use Rotisserie Chicken
Rotisserie chicken adds rich flavor while saving time during preparation.
Cook Pasta Separately
Cook the noodles separately if you plan to store leftovers to prevent them from becoming overly soft.
Add More Vegetables
Peas, corn, spinach, mushrooms, or potatoes make excellent additions for extra nutrition and texture.
Make It Extra Creamy
Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, silkier broth.
Boost the Flavor
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the creamy broth and enhances the chicken flavor.
Try Different Herbs
Fresh dill, rosemary, or Italian seasoning can be used to give the soup a different but equally delicious flavor.
Storage
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for Later
Freeze the soup without the noodles for up to 3 months, then add freshly cooked pasta when reheating for the best texture.
