If you’re craving a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug, this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a deliciously rich, yet perfectly balanced soup, combining tender shredded chicken, soft egg noodles, and vibrant vegetables all swimming in a luscious creamy broth. This recipe isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating a heartwarming experience that’s simple enough for any weeknight but special enough to serve whenever you want to impress. Once you try this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, it’ll quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe stands out because every ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. These straightforward pantry staples come together to make a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Tender and juicy, this is the heart of the soup providing rich protein and flavor.
- 6 cups chicken broth (or stock): Creates the savory base for your soup, adding depth and warmth.
- 2 cups water: Balances out the broth to ensure your soup isn’t too concentrated.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced: Adds a pop of color and natural sweetness.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Offers a gentle crunch and earthy undertones.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a flavorful punch.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Provides a delicate herbal note balancing the creamy richness.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: Brightens the flavor with fresh, green hints.
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste): Essential for enhancing all flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 2 cups egg noodles (or your choice of pasta): The chewy, comforting carbs everyone loves in chicken noodle soup.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The magic ingredient that makes this soup decadently creamy without overpowering the other elements.
- 1 tbsp butter: Adds richness and a velvety finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): A cheerful green touch to brighten each bowl before serving.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken breasts or thighs into a large pot with the chicken broth and water. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let the chicken cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, until it’s cooked through and tender. Once done, carefully remove the chicken and shred it using two forks—this shredded chicken is what will make your soup hearty and satisfying.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Using the same pot, toss in the diced onions, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Cook these on medium heat for roughly 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release their savory aroma. This creates a beautiful flavor base that complements the chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Season the Soup
Now it’s time to bring in the herbs and seasonings. Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir them in well, allowing the flavors to meld with the softened veggies. This step gives the soup its distinct herbal character and balanced seasoning.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Next, pour the egg noodles into the pot and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the noodles so they cook to tender perfection without becoming mushy. The noodles bring that classic, satisfying texture everyone expects from chicken noodle soup.
Step 5: Make the Soup Creamy
Reduce the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream and butter. Watch as the butter melts and blends into the soup, creating a luxuriously creamy and smooth broth that elevates this recipe beyond your typical chicken noodle soup.
Step 6: Add the Chicken
Return the shredded chicken back into the pot and give everything a good stir to combine. Let it warm through for a few minutes so all the flavors come together in perfect harmony.
Step 7: Serve
Give your soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a little zing of color and freshness. This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is now ready to fill your home with cozy, irresistible comfort.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of fresh parsley is always a lovely finishing touch that adds a bright note to the creamy base. If you want to get creative, a dash of freshly grated Parmesan or a few cracked black peppercorns can boost both flavor and presentation. A swirl of extra cream on top can also make the soup look restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or warm garlic rolls to soak up every last drop of broth. For a lighter option, try a side simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, which can balance the richness of the soup. Roasted vegetables or a crisp apple slaw would also complement the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in rustic bread bowls for a charming twist that doubles as an edible bowl. Mini mason jars or pretty soup mugs with a dollop of whipped cream cheese or sour cream can turn an everyday meal into a special occasion. You can also layer the ingredients in glass bowls for a pretty, colorful display before stirring everything together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen after resting, but keep in mind the noodles might soak up more liquid and become softer over time.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe, it’s best to do so before adding the heavy cream and pasta. Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and add cream and noodles fresh to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from curdling. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Reheat until warmed through and bubbly for that fresh-from-the-pot taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this soup?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a little extra richness and stay moist during cooking, making them a fantastic choice for this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative, and swap butter with olive oil to keep that creamy texture without dairy.
Can I use other types of noodles?
Definitely. While egg noodles are classic, feel free to use any pasta shape you like such as rotini, shells, or even gluten-free noodles to suit your preference.
How can I make this soup more flavorful?
Roasting the chicken or adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the soup’s depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be added just before serving.
Is it okay to freeze the soup after adding cream and noodles?
Freezing after adding cream and noodles can affect the texture negatively, making pasta mushy and cream curdled. It’s best to add those fresh when reheating for the best consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a timeless dish that combines wholesome ingredients with a silky richness that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re feeding your family or craving something cozy for yourself, this soup turns simple ingredients into something truly comforting and special. I encourage you to give it a try and see just how quickly it can become a go-to classic in your culinary repertoire.
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Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Tender chicken is simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables and noodles, then enriched with heavy cream and butter for a smooth, creamy finish. It’s an easy-to-make classic that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Broth & Liquids
- 6 cups chicken broth (or stock)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup heavy cream
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Additives
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
Pasta
- 2 cups egg noodles (or your choice of pasta)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken breasts or thighs along with the chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Using the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic. Cook these vegetables over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until they become softened and aromatic.
- Season the Soup: Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper to the pot with the vegetables. Stir well to combine and allow the herbs to release their flavors into the broth.
- Add the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and continue to simmer the soup for 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender and fully cooked.
- Make the Soup Creamy: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream and butter. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the soup develops a rich, creamy texture.
- Add the Chicken: Return the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir well to evenly combine it with the creamy soup base.
- Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- You can use leftover cooked chicken instead of cooking from raw to save time.
- Egg noodles can be swapped for any favorite pasta shape; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make sure to simmer gently after adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried, using about three times the amount.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
