Name: Best Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cups shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups egg noodles; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

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There's nothing more comforting on a chilly evening than a warm bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup. With its velvety broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles, this recipe feels like a hug in a bowl. It's quick, hearty, and so easy to make, you'll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

I first created this recipe on a whim when I wanted something cozy but didn’t have hours to simmer a traditional soup. Now, it’s my go-to meal for busy nights or when someone in the family needs a little extra TLC. Let’s dive in and discover how to make your new favorite soup.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Get ready to fall in love with this irresistible soup. It's a comforting classic with a creamy twist that makes it even more indulgent.

First, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you can have a rich, flavorful soup on the table in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

It’s also wonderfully versatile. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even turkey, making it ideal for clearing out your fridge while still creating a dish that feels fresh and special.

The combination of creamy broth and hearty noodles creates a perfect balance of textures. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Finally, this soup is pure comfort food. Whether you’re under the weather or just in need of something soothing, this dish delivers warmth and nourishment with every spoonful.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this soup’s deliciousness lies in its fresh, simple ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to add depth and flavor to the dish.

Start with shredded chicken as the protein base. You can use cooked chicken breasts, thighs, or even a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.

Egg noodles are the classic choice for this recipe. Their slightly chewy texture holds up beautifully in the creamy broth, but feel free to substitute with wide noodles or even gluten-free pasta if needed.

For the creamy base, heavy cream is key. It adds a luxurious richness to the broth, though half-and-half can work if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Chicken broth serves as the foundation of the soup. Opt for a low-sodium version so you can control the seasoning, and feel free to use homemade broth for an extra boost of flavor.

Don’t forget the vegetables! A mix of carrots, celery, and onions creates a classic mirepoix that forms the flavor backbone of the soup.

Lastly, you’ll need garlic and a touch of thyme to add aromatic depth to the dish. A sprinkle of parsley at the end brightens everything up.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Creating this creamy chicken noodle soup is simple and straightforward, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

Begin by preparing your vegetables. Dice the onions, carrots, and celery into even pieces so they cook uniformly. Mince the garlic for a punch of flavor.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step allows the flavors to meld together while the vegetables finish cooking.

Stir in the egg noodles and let them cook in the broth until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir until heated through. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy, creamy goodness.

Storage Options

This soup is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store any cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb some of the broth, so you might need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

For longer storage, freeze the soup without the noodles. Simply cool the soup completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, reheat, and cook fresh noodles to add before serving.

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

This soup is endlessly adaptable, making it a perfect canvas for creativity.

For a healthier version, use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream. The soup will still be creamy, but with fewer calories.

Swap out the egg noodles for rice or quinoa to make the recipe gluten-free. Both options pair wonderfully with the creamy broth and chicken.

Add extra vegetables like spinach, peas, or corn to boost the nutrition and add pops of color to the soup.

If you don’t have chicken on hand, cooked turkey works just as well, especially around the holidays when leftovers are plentiful.

Finally, experiment with spices. A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can add a subtle heat and smoky depth to the soup.

This creamy chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!