Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Cozy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

Comfort arrives with this easy creamy chicken noodle soup that hugs your soul like a warm blanket on a chilly afternoon.

Tender chicken pieces nestle among soft noodles swimming in a silky broth that whispers pure satisfaction.

Homemade magic happens when simple ingredients blend into something extraordinary.

Fresh herbs and rich cream create layers of flavor that dance across your palate.

Grandmothers worldwide would nod in approval at this straightforward yet delicious preparation.

creamy textures and hearty chunks promise a meal that fills more than just hunger.

You’ll want to savor every spoonful of this soul-warming classic.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup’s Comforting Touch

  • Savor Flavor-Packed Comfort: Dive into a rich, mouthwatering potato dish that combines the sweet depth of caramelized onions with creamy, cheesy goodness.
  • Master Simple Gourmet Cooking: Transform basic ingredients into an impressive side dish that looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality creation, with minimal culinary skills required.
  • Customize Your Culinary Adventure: Easily adapt the recipe by switching cheeses, adding herbs, or incorporating different seasonings to match your taste preferences and pantry ingredients.
  • Perfect for Family Gatherings: Crowd-pleasing recipe that appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal dish for potlucks, dinner parties, or cozy family meals.

Ingredients For Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

For the Base:
  • Butter: Provides a rich, smooth foundation for sautéing vegetables.
  • Onions, Carrots, Celery: Classic soup vegetables that build a deep, aromatic flavor profile.
For the Aromatics:
  • Garlic: Adds a pungent and warming flavor to the soup.
  • Thyme: Introduces a subtle, earthy herb note that complements the chicken.
For the Liquid and Thickening Components:
  • Flour: Helps to thicken the soup and create a smooth texture.
  • Chicken Broth: Creates the flavorful liquid base of the soup.
  • Noodles: Provide hearty substance and a comforting texture to the dish.
For the Protein and Creamy Elements:
  • Cooked Chicken: Adds protein and makes the soup more substantial.
  • Heavy Cream, Milk: Contribute to the soup's rich, creamy consistency.
For the Seasoning:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing the overall flavor of the soup.

Preparing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Step-By-Step

Step 1: Prepare Veggie Base

In a spacious pot, melt butter over medium heat. Toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery.

Sauté these vegetables until they become soft and fragrant, releasing their delightful aromas.

Step 2: Enhance Flavor Profile

Add minced garlic and fresh thyme to the vegetable mixture.

Stir and cook for a quick 1-2 minutes, allowing the herbs to bloom and intensify the soup’s taste.

Step 3: Create Thickening Roux

Sprinkle flour evenly over the softened vegetables.

Gently stir to coat each piece, creating a smooth base that will help thicken the soup. Cook for one minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Build Liquid Foundation

Slowly pour chicken broth into the pot, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Add egg noodles and cook until they reach perfect tenderness.

Step 5: Introduce Protein and Creaminess

Fold in cooked chicken pieces.

Pour heavy cream and milk into the soup, stirring to create a luxurious, velvety texture. Continue simmering until everything is heated thoroughly.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serving

Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper. Adjust flavors to your preference.

Ladle the steaming, creamy soup into bowls and serve immediately for maximum comfort and enjoyment.

Cooking Insights For Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk to reduce calories and make the soup lighter.
  • Use gluten-free noodles or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative that still delivers amazing flavor.
  • Prep vegetables ahead of time to speed up cooking and make weeknight dinner preparation a breeze.
  • For extra richness, roast chicken bones before making homemade broth, which intensifies the soup's depth and complexity.
  • Freeze leftover soup in portion-sized containers for quick meals later, ensuring you always have a comforting dish ready.

Flavorful Variations For Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Spicy Southwest Soup: Add diced green chilies, cumin, and a dash of cayenne pepper for a zesty kick. Top with fresh cilantro and crushed tortilla chips.
  • Mediterranean Chicken Soup: Replace thyme with oregano, add roasted red peppers, and finish with a dollop of Greek yogurt. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
  • Herb Garden Soup: Mix in fresh chopped basil, parsley, and dill. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Garnish with extra fresh herbs.
  • Asian-Inspired Soup: Swap thyme for ginger and green onions. Add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil. Garnish with crispy wonton strips and sliced green onions.

Ideal Pairings For Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Ladle the soup into deep ceramic bowls with a rustic wooden spoon. Garnish with fresh parsley and crusty sourdough bread on the side for dipping.
  • Pack the soup in a sturdy thermos for a cozy workplace lunch. Pair with a small side salad and crisp crackers for a balanced midday meal.
  • Serve in a large communal pot at the center of the table. Offer extra toppings like crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and grated parmesan cheese for personalized garnishing.

Storage Advice For Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the soup completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm the soup slowly in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of extra broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
  • When reheating, avoid boiling the soup to keep the cream from breaking or becoming grainy. Gentle heating helps maintain the smooth, creamy texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even wide egg noodles depending on your preference.

  • Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can make this soup ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

  • Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Replace heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk to create a dairy-free version of the soup.

  • What's the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?

You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or poach chicken breasts specifically for this soup. Shred or dice the chicken before adding to the soup.

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Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe


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4.8 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Homemade creamy chicken noodle soup delivers comfort in a single bowl, blending classic flavors with rich, hearty ingredients. Simmered with tender chicken, vegetables, and a velvety broth, you’ll savor each spoonful of this soul-warming classic.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups chicken, shredded or diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups egg noodles
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1 onion (small), diced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Warm a spacious cooking vessel over medium temperature, allowing butter to liquefy and create a silky base for aromatic vegetables.
  2. Introduce diced onions, julienned carrots, and finely chopped celery, gently sautéing until they soften and release their natural sweetness.
  3. Incorporate minced garlic and fragrant thyme, allowing their essence to permeate the vegetable medley for approximately 1-2 minutes.
  4. Dust vegetables with a delicate layer of flour, meticulously coating each piece to create a subtle thickening foundation.
  5. Gradually introduce chicken broth, whisking continuously to ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency, then elevate to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add tender egg noodles, allowing them to cook until they reach perfect al dente texture, typically 6-8 minutes.
  7. Fold in pre-cooked, shredded chicken, creating a harmonious blend of protein and vegetables.
  8. Stream in rich heavy cream and smooth milk, stirring gently to integrate all components and create a luxurious, velvety texture.
  9. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring complete heat distribution and flavor melding.
  10. Calibrate seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting to personal preference.
  11. Ladle into warm bowls and serve immediately, offering a comforting, nourishing meal.

Notes

  • Enhance the soup’s richness by using homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought for deeper flavor complexity.
  • Swap traditional egg noodles with gluten-free alternatives like rice noodles or zucchini spirals for a low-carb version.
  • Cut cooking time by prepping vegetables in advance and storing them in the refrigerator for quick weeknight meal preparation.
  • Balance the creamy texture by adding a splash of white wine or fresh herbs like parsley during the final simmer for an elevated taste profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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