Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

There’s something truly magical about a bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup. It’s more than just food; it’s a hug in a bowl. This recipe delivers a rich, velvety broth without being too heavy. Tender shredded chicken and perfectly cooked noodles make every spoonful delightful.

I love making this soup on a brisk autumn evening. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal. Just a quick reheat and it’s ready for hungry tummies. Busy moms and professionals will appreciate its comforting charm.

Why I Love This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

This creamy chicken noodle soup holds a special place in my heart.

It’s incredibly easy to whip up. Weeknights are salvaged! The flavor is just so deeply comforting. It’s wonderfully versatile, too. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Everyone asks for seconds!

It’s a truly wonderful recipe. Here’s why it’s a go-to:

• Quick prep for busy schedules.
• So nourishing and delightfully creamy.
• Simple ingredients yield amazing taste.
• Perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

The magic of this creamy chicken noodle soup begins with simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully. This combination creates a dish that’s both hearty and elegant. It truly tastes like a labor of love.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients

Let’s peek at what makes this soup so delicious:

Olive Oil: Our base for sautéing veggies. It adds a subtle fruity note.

Onion, Celery, and Carrots: This classic trio builds a savory foundation. They soften into wonderful sweetness.

Garlic: Just a touch adds wonderful aroma. It wakes up all the other flavors.

Chicken Broth: The soul of our soup. Use good quality broth for best results.

Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced, it makes the soup hearty. It’s our protein star.

Dried Thyme and Rosemary: These herbs bring earthy, aromatic depth. They just smell like home.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors into balance.

Egg Noodles: They absorb the creamy broth so well. They make it a true noodle soup.

Heavy Cream: This is the secret to its velvety texture. It makes it wonderfully creamy.

Fresh Parsley: A bright, pretty garnish. It adds a pop of freshness.

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t fret if you’re missing an ingredient! For a richer flavor, homemade chicken broth is divine. If heavy cream isn’t on hand, half-and-half works. Just know it results in a less rich soup. You can also try different herbs like sage. Fresh herbs like dill are also lovely additions. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free noodles. Ensure you don’t boil the soup after adding the cream. This prevents any chance of curdling.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Let’s make this incredibly comforting classic. This creamy chicken noodle soup recipe is straightforward. Follow these easy steps for a delightful meal. Your family will love this hearty noodle soup.

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Grab a large pot. A Dutch oven works beautifully. Add one tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Now, add one cup of chopped onion. Also add one cup of celery. And one cup of carrots go in too. Sauté these for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to get nice and soft. This builds our flavor base.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Next up is garlic. Add two minced cloves. Cook them for just another minute. You’ll smell a wonderful aroma. Don’t let the garlic burn. Fragrant garlic is key here.

Step 3: Simmer the Base

Pour in six cups of chicken broth. This is the heart of our soup. Add two cups of cooked chicken. Shredded or diced chicken works well. Stir in one teaspoon of dried thyme. Add half a teaspoon of dried rosemary. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring this savory mixture to a gentle simmer. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Time for the noodles! Add one cup of egg noodles. Cook them according to their package directions. This usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Make sure they are tender, not mushy. They will soak up all that delicious broth.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Reduce the heat to low. This is important. Stir in half a cup of heavy cream. Gently heat the soup through. Do this for about 2 to 3 minutes. Do not let it boil. Boiling can make the cream curdle. This step makes our chicken noodle soup truly creamy.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Give the soup a taste. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the luscious soup into bowls. Garnish with two tablespoons of fresh parsley. Sprinkle it on top. Serve your amazing creamy chicken noodle soup warm. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

How to Store Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Leftover creamy chicken noodle soup keeps well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, freezing is an option. Let the soup cool completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can stay frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid boiling once reheated after storing cream.

Tips for Success

• Use good quality chicken broth. It makes a big difference in flavor.
• Shred or dice your cooked chicken evenly. This ensures consistent bites.
• Don’t overcook the noodles. They can get mushy quickly.
• Add the cream at the very end. Gentle heating prevents curdling.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. It polishes the whole dish.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Gathering the right tools makes cooking a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious creamy chicken noodle soup:

• Large pot or Dutch oven (a large saucepan works too)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle
• Whisk or spoon for stirring

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken noodle soup is wonderful on its own. However, a few simple additions elevate it further. Consider these ideas:

• Serve with crusty bread or buttered rolls. They are perfect for dipping!
• A simple side salad makes it a complete meal.
• Offer a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling cider.
• Garnish with extra parsley or a tiny sprig of fresh thyme.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this creamy chicken noodle soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is fantastic for make-ahead meals. Cook the soup completely, let it cool, and then store it. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash more broth or cream if needed. It tastes just as wonderful the next day!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover creamy chicken noodle soup in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing and storing. Reheating is best done gently to maintain creamy texture.

Can I use different kinds of noodles?

Yes, you can! While egg noodles are classic for this noodle soup, other small pasta shapes work well. Try elbow macaroni or rotini. Just be sure to cook them until just tender. Adjust cooking time based on the pasta package.

Is it okay to freeze creamy chicken noodle soup?

You can freeze this soup, but the creamy texture might change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the soup base without the cream added. Then, add the cream when you reheat it. This helps prevent separation. Freeze in portioned, airtight containers for up to 2–3 months.

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