There’s nothing quite like the smell of a pot bubbling away on the stove, especially when that pot holds a rich, comforting creamy chicken noodle soup. On a chilly day, this dish transforms a simple kitchen into a cozy haven. When I first made this soup after a long day, I was met with the warm embrace of savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and tantalizing herbs; it was pure comfort in a bowl.
This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender chunks of chicken, chewy egg noodles, and a creamy base that will have you going back for seconds—if not thirds! Best of all, with a total time of just 35 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave home-cooked goodness but want to keep things easy. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into a bowl of blissful warmth that’s sure to become your new favorite go-to comfort food!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- This creamy chicken noodle soup is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- With its rich and comforting flavor, it will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings, making it a perfect choice for chilly days.
- The versatility of this recipe means you can easily customize the ingredients to include whatever vegetables or spices you have on hand.
- Its beautiful presentation, with colorful veggies and a creamy finish, makes it visually appealing and a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to create something delightful!
For the Base
- Olive oil – adds a wonderful richness and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
- Butter – brings in a deep, buttery flavor that enhances the creaminess.
- Onion – essential for building a savory foundation with its sweet and aromatic qualities.
- Garlic – infuses the soup with a fragrant kick that complements the other flavors.
- Carrots – provide natural sweetness and vibrant color that brighten up the dish.
- Celery – adds a satisfying crunch and balances the flavors beautifully.
For the Soup
- All-purpose flour – thickens the soup, giving it that coveted creamy texture.
- Chicken broth – the flavorful base of this creamy chicken noodle soup; use low-sodium for better control over salt.
- Cooked shredded chicken – the star ingredient that makes this soup hearty and satisfying.
- Italian seasoning – brings a delightful mix of herbs that elevates the flavor profile.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors and brings everything together.
- Black pepper – adds a welcome hint of spice to the comfort.
For the Noodle Component
- Egg noodles – perfect for soaking up the delicious broth and adding chewiness to every spoonful.
For the Creamy Finish
- Heavy cream – turns the soup into a luxurious treat that’s downright irresistible.
- Fresh parsley – for a pop of color and a fresh touch that brightens the dish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
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Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery, sautéing for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Coat with Flour: Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to coat. Cook for about 1 minute while constantly stirring to avoid burning.
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Add Broth Gradually: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
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Incorporate Chicken and Seasoning: Add the shredded chicken along with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to infuse the flavors.
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Cook the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and cook for 7–8 minutes, or until noodles are just tender and fully cooked.
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Finish with Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, allowing the soup to warm through. Ensure it doesn’t boil, as you want to keep the cream smooth and velvety.
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Garnish and Serve: Finish the soup by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve hot and enjoy each comforting spoonful!
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful dipping experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
There’s something magical about pairing your warm, cozy soup with delightful sides that elevate your meal experience.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this rustic bread complements the creamy broth, soaking up every last drop.
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Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with vibrant greens and a tangy dressing adds a refreshing counterpoint to the rich soup.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty cheese and toasty bread make it the ultimate comfort duo, enhancing the soup’s savory flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, these earthy bites bring a beautiful texture and depth of flavor to your meal.
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Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy and buttery, biscuits are a delightful addition that can be slathered with butter or jam.
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Sweet Tea: This soothing, sweet beverage pairs beautifully with the heartiness of creamy chicken noodle soup, balancing the flavors perfectly.
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Apple Crisp: For a dessert that’s both warm and comforting, this sweet treat offers a lovely contrast to the savory soup. The combination of apples and a crumbly topping feels like a hug in every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and cook the shredded chicken up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the soup base (without the noodles and cream) up to 24 hours ahead—just refrigerate it after cooking. When you’re ready to finish the soup, simply reheat the base over medium heat, add the egg noodles and cook until tender, then stir in the heavy cream just before serving. This approach keeps everything fresh and ensures you have a warm, comforting meal on busy weeknights with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Fridge: Keep your creamy chicken noodle soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid excess moisture.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top, as the liquid will expand when frozen.
Reheating: Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick.
Storing Leftovers: Always store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness and flavor, ensuring you can enjoy this comforting dish later!
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your creamy chicken noodle soup uniquely yours!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or dill to enhance the aromatic flavor and elevate the dish’s depth. A little fresh herbs can transform the soup!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a warming heat that dances on your taste buds. This variation adds an exciting zing, perfect for those who enjoy a little spice.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option. It’s still creamy, hearty, and comforting!
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Pasta Twist: Instead of egg noodles, opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs while still capturing that comforting essence. Each variant offers a unique texture to enjoy.
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Creamy Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a vegan-friendly version that’s just as rich and satisfying. You won’t miss the dairy with this luscious alternative!
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Mixed Veggies: Toss in frozen peas, corn, or spinach just before adding the cream for a burst of color and extra nutrition. These vibrant veggies add freshness and balance to the creamy richness.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing contrast to the creamy base. It complements the savory notes beautifully!
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Slow Cooker: Prep your ingredients and let them simmer in a slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low. This will deepen the flavors while you go about your day, creating a warm hug in a bowl ready for dinner.
These variations open up a world of delicious possibilities, ensuring your creamy chicken noodle soup is never the same twice!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making creamy chicken noodle soup, remember to sauté the vegetables until they are just softened to unlock their natural sweetness without overcooking them.
- A common mistake is to add the flour too quickly; sprinkle it evenly over the veggies and stir constantly to avoid lumps in your soup.
- Utilize low-sodium chicken broth to allow better control over the soup’s saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overpowering it.
- For the best texture, cook the egg noodles just until tender, as they will continue to soften slightly after being added to the warm soup.
- Allow the heavy cream to warm up gradually with the soup instead of boiling it, which helps maintain the cream’s luxurious texture.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right vegetables for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing vegetables like carrots and celery, ensure they are fresh and firm. Look for carrots that are smooth without dark spots or cracks and celery that is crisp with vibrant green leaves. This not only enhances the soup’s flavor but also contributes to a beautiful presentation.
What’s the best way to store creamy chicken noodle soup?
To store your creamy chicken noodle soup, use an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure the soup cools completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect the texture.
Can I freeze creamy chicken noodle soup?
Very! You can freeze this comforting dish for up to 3 months. Pour the soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed for consistency.
Why did my soup turn out too thick or lumpy?
If your creamy chicken noodle soup is too thick or has lumps, don’t worry! You can fix it by gently stirring in extra broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. If lumps formed, use a whisk to smoothen the mixture while warming it over low heat. For future batches, remember to sprinkle flour evenly and stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming in the first place.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this creamy chicken noodle soup. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or use cornstarch for thickening. Additionally, always check your chicken broth and noodles for gluten content. If you have dairy allergies, consider using coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative to achieve a similar creamy texture.
How long does the soup last in the fridge?
This hearty soup can be happily stored in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Always aim to cool it before sealing it in an airtight container to ensure the best flavor and texture when you’re ready to enjoy those comforting leftovers again!
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery, sautéing for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to coat. Cook for about 1 minute while constantly stirring to avoid burning.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Add the shredded chicken along with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to infuse the flavors.
- Stir in the egg noodles and cook for 7–8 minutes, or until noodles are just tender and fully cooked.
- Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, allowing the soup to warm through. Ensure it doesn’t boil, as you want to keep the cream smooth and velvety.
- Finish the soup by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve hot and enjoy each comforting spoonful!
