Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

The Coziest Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

Warm, comforting creamy chicken noodle soup emerges as the ultimate comfort companion during chilly evenings.

Our recipe brings together classic ingredients with a delightful twist.

Hearty chunks of tender chicken mingle with soft, silky noodles in a velvety broth.

Rich, smooth textures promise a satisfying meal that hugs you from the inside.

Freshly chopped herbs add a bright, aromatic dimension to each spoonful.

Simple yet sophisticated, this soup delivers pure culinary comfort without complicated techniques.

Storage Advice for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring it's sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other food odors.
  • Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. Pro tip: Separate noodles from liquid to maintain better texture when thawing.
  • Transfer frozen or refrigerated soup to a pot. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if soup seems too thick. Heat until temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety.
  • Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl.

FAQs About Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • What makes the roux important in this soup?

The roux creates a thick, creamy base that helps the soup develop a rich texture and prevents lumpy consistency. By cooking flour with butter, it ensures smooth blending and adds depth of flavor to the soup.

  • Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta like rotini, wide egg noodles, or even shell pasta. Just adjust cooking time based on the pasta type to prevent overcooking.

  • How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Add heavy cream at the end of cooking and keep the soup at a low simmer, not a rolling boil. Stir gently and avoid high heat to maintain a smooth, creamy texture without separating.

Reasons to Enjoy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Craft Comfort Quickly: This creamy chicken noodle soup delivers maximum comfort with minimal kitchen effort, perfect for busy families craving a warm, satisfying meal.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by swapping proteins, adding extra vegetables, or adjusting seasonings to match your family's taste preferences without complicated techniques.
  • Nutritious One-Pot Wonder: Packed with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and hearty noodles, this soup provides a balanced meal that nourishes and delights everyone at the table.
  • Stress-Free Cooking Method: Simple step-by-step instructions make this recipe approachable for home cooks of all skill levels, ensuring a delicious result every single time.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: A hearty protein that provides richness and substance to the soup.
Aromatics and Vegetables:
  • Onion, Garlic, Carrots, Celery: These vegetables create a flavorful base and add depth to the soup's taste.
Soup Base and Thickeners:
  • Butter, Olive Oil: A combination of fats that helps sauté vegetables and adds richness.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the soup and create a creamy texture.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides the liquid foundation and enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds a smooth, luxurious creaminess to the soup.
Noodles:
  • Egg Noodles: Soft, comforting pasta that makes the soup more filling and satisfying.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Thyme, Parsley, Bay Leaf: Fresh herbs that contribute aromatic complexity to the soup.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the soup's flavors.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb to sprinkle on top for added color and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sizzle the Veggie Base

Grab a large pot and create magic by melting butter and olive oil together over medium heat. Toss in these flavor-packed ingredients:
  • Chopped onions
  • Minced garlic
  • Diced carrots
  • Sliced celery

Sauté these veggies until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes of gentle cooking.

Step 2: Create a Silky Thickening Magic

Sprinkle flour into the vegetable mixture and stir enthusiastically. Watch the mixture transform into a golden paste that’ll give your soup incredible body and richness.

Step 3: Pour in Liquid Comfort

Slowly stream chicken broth into the pot, whisking continuously to prevent any pesky lumps. Introduce these flavor heroes:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Fresh thyme
  • Chopped parsley
  • Bay leaf
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Bring everything to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to dance together.

Step 4: Bring on the Creamy Goodness

Swirl in heavy cream and egg noodles. Let the soup bubble gently for 10-12 minutes until noodles are perfectly tender and the soup reaches dreamy thickness.

Step 5: Final Flavor Boost

Take a taste and adjust seasonings with extra salt and pepper as your taste buds desire.

Step 6: Serve with Love

Pluck out the bay leaf and ladle this liquid comfort into bowls. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve alongside crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Pro Tips for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select crisp vegetables and high-quality chicken for maximum flavor and texture in your soup.
  • Prevent Lumpy Roux: Whisk flour slowly and continuously while adding broth to ensure a smooth, creamy base without clumps.
  • Control Noodle Texture: Add egg noodles near the end of cooking to prevent overcooking and maintain their perfect al dente consistency.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Let the soup simmer longer to allow herbs and seasonings to develop a rich, complex taste profile.
  • Adapt for Dietary Needs: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for lighter versions, and use gluten-free flour and noodles for alternative dietary requirements.

Variation Ideas for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup: Replace wheat flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend for thickening. Use gluten-free egg noodles or zucchini noodles as a pasta alternative.
  • Dairy-Free Comfort Version: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter, dairy-free option.
  • Low-Carb Keto Adaptation: Substitute noodles with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice. Use bone broth for extra nutrients and replace flour with xanthan gum for thickening.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add extra protein-rich legumes like white beans.

Pairing Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Savor Complementary Flavors: Pair this creamy chicken noodle soup with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay that cut through the richness and enhance the soup's delicate herbal notes.
  • Bread Companion: Select rustic sourdough or crusty French baguette slices to provide a delightful textural contrast and soak up the creamy broth, creating a perfect bite every time.
  • Fresh Herb Accents: Sprinkle additional fresh parsley or chives on top to brighten the dish, adding a zesty green layer that complements the soup's warm, comforting profile and introduces a light, fresh element.
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Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 33-41 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comforting Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup brings warmth and nostalgia to kitchen tables across America. Rich with tender chicken, silky noodles, and a velvety broth, this classic recipe promises hearty satisfaction in every spoonful you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups egg noodles
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Vegetables:

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Other Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Initiate the flavor foundation by warming butter and olive oil in a spacious pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Incorporate diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables soften and become translucent.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring continuously to create a golden-hued roux that coats the vegetables evenly.
  4. Gradually stream chicken broth into the pot, whisking methodically to prevent lump formation and ensure smooth consistency.
  5. Introduce shredded chicken, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-18 minutes.
  6. Pour heavy cream into the simmering liquid, then add egg noodles. Continue cooking for 10-12 minutes until noodles reach perfect tenderness and soup thickens.
  7. Evaluate the soup’s seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper to personal preference.
  8. Extract the bay leaf and discard. Ladle the creamy soup into serving bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley and accompanying with crusty bread.

Notes

  • Select bone-in chicken for richer, more flavorful meat that shreds beautifully and adds depth to the soup’s overall taste.
  • Create a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with cornstarch or using gluten-free noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Control soup thickness by adjusting cream and flour quantities – less flour means lighter soup, more creates a heartier, stew-like consistency.
  • Enhance nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach without compromising the classic comfort food profile.
  • Prep Time: 5-7 minutes
  • Cook Time: 28-34 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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