Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially on chilly days. With tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup is both satisfying and soothing. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy meal for yourself. The creamy texture and warm flavors make it a comforting classic you’ll want to return to again and again.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 1/2 cups egg noodles
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

directions

1. Prepare the Veggies:
   In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
2. Make the Soup Base:
   Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables (if using) and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add Chicken and Noodles:
   Stir in the shredded chicken and egg noodles. Simmer the soup for about 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
4. Add the Cream:
   Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the soup is warmed through and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4-6 people.

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
• Stir in some spinach or kale for extra veggies and color.
• For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.

storage/reheating

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• The soup will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.
• To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the noodles may absorb some of the broth, so you might need to add extra liquid when reheating.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can swap the egg noodles for any type of small pasta, like rotini, shells, or penne.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but keep in mind that the cream might separate slightly when reheated. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat slowly on the stove.

What if I don’t have cooked chicken?
You can cook chicken breasts or thighs in the pot along with the vegetables, then shred it and continue with the recipe. It will add extra flavor to the soup.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect cozy meal for any day, offering warmth, comfort, and a satisfying blend of flavors. Whether you’re under the weather, craving comfort, or just looking for an easy dinner, this soup hits the spot every time. With its rich, creamy broth and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Print