Homemade Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

The Best Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort

Crafting the best creamy chicken noodle soup demands more than just ingredients – it requires passion and a dash of culinary magic.

Comfort wafts through kitchens when this hearty dish simmers gently on stovetops.

Memories of grandmother’s recipes dance between tender chicken chunks and silky noodles.

Rich, velvety broth embraces each spoonful with warmth that hugs your soul.

Simplicity meets sophistication in this classic recipe that transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences.

Seasonal vegetables and perfectly seasoned chicken create a symphony of flavors you’ll crave again and again.

Dive into this recipe, and watch how a few carefully selected ingredients can turn an everyday meal into a masterpiece.

What Complements Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Cozy Family Dinner Companion: Pair this creamy chicken noodle soup with warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the rich, flavorful broth.
  • Hearty Lunch Upgrade: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the soup's creamy texture and add a fresh, zesty element.
  • Winter Comfort Platter: Accompany the soup with a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs on top and some garlic parmesan crostini for added crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Wholesome Meal Enhancer: Add a small side of roasted seasonal vegetables to create a complete, nutritious meal that satisfies and warms from the inside out.

How To Store Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Store leftover chicken noodle soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Keep the soup separate from garnishes like fresh parsley to maintain their crispness.
  • Avoid freezing the soup with cream as it may separate and become grainy when thawed.

FAQs

  • What type of noodles work best in this recipe?

Wide egg noodles are ideal for this creamy chicken noodle soup, providing the perfect texture and ability to hold the rich, creamy broth.

  • Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken separately?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option that saves time and adds extra depth to the soup’s taste.

  • Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the cream. Add the heavy cream after thawing and reheating for the best texture and flavor.

  • How can I make this soup healthier?

Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, add more vegetables, and choose whole wheat noodles to boost the nutritional value of the soup.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup That Satisfies

  • Craft a Comforting Meal: This creamy chicken noodle soup delivers ultimate comfort with its rich, velvety texture and hearty ingredients that warm you from the inside out.
  • Simplify Cooking Process: The recipe requires basic cooking skills, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels who want a delicious, satisfying meal without complicated techniques.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Packed with tender chicken, soft noodles, and colorful vegetables, this soup appeals to both kids and adults, creating a perfect shared dining experience.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Prepared in under 30 minutes, this soup rescues busy families and individuals seeking a nutritious, homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients For Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Base Ingredients:
  • Chicken: Protein-rich main component of the soup that provides a hearty and satisfying flavor.
  • Egg Noodles: Classic pasta that adds texture and substance to the creamy soup.
  • Chicken Broth: Liquid base that creates the foundational flavor for the soup.
Vegetable Mix:
  • Onion, Carrots, Celery: Classic soup aromatics that build a deep and rich flavor profile.
  • Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic element to enhance the overall taste.
Seasoning and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Thyme, Rosemary: Herbs that provide a subtle, earthy undertone to the soup.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the soup's overall taste.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy texture and adds richness to the soup.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that adds a fresh and colorful finishing touch.
Binding and Thickening Ingredients:
  • Butter: Provides a rich base for sautéing vegetables and adds depth of flavor.
  • Flour: Helps to thicken the soup and create a smooth, velvety consistency.

Step-By-Step Chicken Noodle Soup Guide

Step 1: Sizzle Aromatic Vegetables

Heat butter in a spacious pot over medium flame. Toss in:
  • Diced onions
  • Sliced carrots
  • Chopped celery

Sauté these colorful veggies until they soften and release their delightful fragrance, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Enhance With Garlic Goodness

Add minced garlic and let it dance in the pot for 1 minute. Dust flour over the vegetables and mix thoroughly to create a smooth base.

Step 3: Build Liquid Foundation

Slowly stream chicken broth into the pot, whisking continuously to prevent any pesky lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Infuse Herbal Magic

Sprinkle in:
  • Fresh thyme
  • Rosemary
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Fold in shredded chicken and tender noodles. Let everything simmer for 8-10 minutes until noodles reach perfect softness.

Step 5: Create Creamy Perfection

Pour in heavy cream and let the soup simmer for an additional 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as your palate desires.

Step 6: Serve With Style

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Enjoy your comforting masterpiece!

Tips For Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Swap regular noodles with gluten-free egg noodles for a celiac-friendly version of this comforting soup.
  • Reduce calories by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, maintaining a creamy texture without excess fat.
  • Enhance flavor by roasting chicken beforehand, which adds depth and richness to the overall soup profile.
  • Prepare soup in advance and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to meld and intensify over time.
  • Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.

Flavorful Twists On Chicken Noodle Soup

  • Gluten-Free Comfort: Replace flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond cream for lactose-intolerant individuals.
  • Vegetarian Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Replace traditional noodles with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
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Homemade Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Homemade Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe


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4.9 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty chicken noodle soup delivers comfort straight from Grandma’s kitchen. Creamy broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles invite you to savor each spoonful of warmth and nostalgia.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Protein:

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 6 cups chicken broth

Vegetables and Aromatics:

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

Base and Seasoning:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups egg noodles
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat a spacious Dutch oven to medium temperature, melting butter and gently sautéing diced onions, carrots, and celery until they become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
  2. Introduce minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, then dust vegetables with flour, stirring thoroughly to create a uniform coating.
  3. Slowly incorporate chicken broth while continuously whisking to eliminate potential lumps, allowing the mixture to reach a gentle simmer.
  4. Enhance the liquid with aromatic thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, creating a rich flavor profile.
  5. Fold in tender shredded chicken and egg noodles, allowing them to cook and absorb the savory broth for 8-9 minutes until noodles reach perfect al dente consistency.
  6. Stream in luxurious heavy cream, stirring gently to integrate and create a velvety texture, and let the soup warm for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  7. Taste and calibrate seasoning with additional salt and pepper as necessary to achieve a balanced flavor.
  8. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, herbaceous finish.

Notes

  • Swap butter for olive oil to create a lighter, heart-healthy version of the soup that reduces saturated fat intake.
  • Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a substitution to make the recipe completely gluten-free and suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Enhance protein content by adding extra shredded rotisserie chicken or plant-based protein alternatives like white beans for vegetarian options.
  • Customize the herb profile by experimenting with fresh herbs like sage or tarragon to create unique flavor variations while maintaining the soup’s comforting essence.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 258 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 17 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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