1poundof bonelessskinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
0.5poundsof baconcut into small pieces
1tablespoonof olive oil
2medium carrotschopped
2celery stalkschopped
1large oniondiced
3clovesof garlicminced
6cupsof chicken broth
2cupsof heavy cream
0.33poundsof egg noodles
1teaspoonof dried thyme
0.5teaspoonof dried rosemary
Salt and freshly ground black pepperto taste
2tablespoonsof all-purpose flouroptional, for thickening
Fresh parsleychopped, for garnish
Instructions
Cook Bacon: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Add Broth and Chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer. Add the shredded chicken to the pot.
Season and Simmer: Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer gently for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Add Noodles and Cream: Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package directions until they are just tender. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through without boiling.
Optional Thickening: If a thicker soup is desired, sprinkle the flour over the soup and stir thoroughly. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the soup reaches the preferred consistency.
Finish and Serve: Return the crispy bacon to the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.