This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy night in! This recipe features tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a rich and creamy broth. It’s a simple yet satisfying soup that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and Comforting: The addition of heavy cream creates a luxuriously creamy texture.
- Flavorful and Aromatic: Fresh herbs and vegetables add a depth of flavor.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
- Perfect for Cold Days: A warm and satisfying meal for chilly weather.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup:
- Cooked shredded chicken: For a protein-packed base.
- Unsalted butter: For sautéing the vegetables and creating a rich flavor.
- Chopped carrots: For sweetness and color.
- Chopped celery: For a fresh and savory flavor.
- Diced onion: For aromatic flavor.
- Minced garlic: For aromatic intensity.
- Fresh thyme: Adds a subtle earthy flavor.
- Fresh parsley: For a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
- All-purpose flour: To thicken the soup.
- Chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup.
- Wide egg noodles: For a hearty and satisfying texture.
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add the chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, fresh thyme, and fresh parsley, and cook for another minute.
- Whisk the all-purpose flour into the vegetables and butter to create a paste.
Step 2: Make the Soup Base
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream to create a smooth, creamy soup base.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
- Add the wide egg noodles, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the noodles are al dente.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Serve
- When the noodles are almost done, add the cooked shredded chicken and cook until the noodles are tender.
- Serve hot with additional seasoning for garnish, if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a shortcut, use shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, peas, or spinach.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs will enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a touch of heat.
How to Serve
- Main Course: Serve this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup as a hearty and satisfying main course.
- Side Dish: Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or a sprinkle of paprika.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.1
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but the texture of the noodles may change slightly. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, you can use other types of noodles, such as egg noodles, whole wheat noodles, or even gluten-free noodles.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add beans or lentils for extra protein.
How can I make this soup thicker?
Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
PrintCreamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and rich twist on a classic favorite. Tender shredded chicken, hearty vegetables, and wide egg noodles are simmered in a creamy broth, creating a warm and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups chopped carrots (about 3 carrots)
- 1 1/2 cups chopped celery (about 3 ribs)
- 1 small onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 3 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic, fresh thyme, and fresh parsley. Cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Whisk the flour into the vegetable mixture to create a paste (roux).
- Add Broth and Cream: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook Noodles: Add the egg noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the noodles are al dente.
- Add Chicken: When the noodles are almost done, stir in the cooked shredded chicken. Cook until the noodles are tender and the chicken is heated through.
- Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs or pepper, if desired.
Notes
- You can use any type of cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of vegetables to your liking.
- For a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last few minutes of cooking.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs (about 1 teaspoon each).
- Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg