Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe With Rich Comfort Flavors

Name: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 3/4 cup chopped yellow onion (about half a large onion); 1 cup sliced or diced carrots (1 2 large or a handful of baby carrots); 1 cup sliced or diced celery (2 3 stalks); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with 2 tablespoons cornstarch); 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust according to broth saltiness); 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons fresh); 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 teaspoon fresh) or 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 8 cups chicken broth (preferably reduced sodium); 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (about 1 1/2 cups or 280 grams); 2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended); 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk (dairy or plain oat milk for nondairy; avoid lower-fat milks); 3 to 4 cups uncooked wide egg noodles or other dry pasta (can substitute with 1 cup uncooked rice or skip noodles); Optional garnish: fresh thyme leaves

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

This creamy chicken noodle soup is a go-to favorite for its simplicity and comforting flavors, perfect for home cooks of all levels. Beyond its ease, the soup packs a nutritious punch with wholesome ingredients like chicken and fresh vegetables, making it a healthy choice for busy parents and diet-conscious individuals. You’ll appreciate how its rich, velvety texture warms you up on chilly days while remaining light and satisfying.

As a busy parent or working professional, the quick preparation and adaptability of this chicken soup mean it’s an ideal meal for weeknights. Whether you’re a food enthusiast experimenting with herbs or a senior seeking gentle, nourishing foods, this recipe stands out for its balance of heartiness and lightness. It’s no wonder it becomes a staple in many kitchens, offering a delightful way to gather around the table.

Key Features of the Recipe

Ease of preparation: Designed for quick cooking, it uses straightforward steps and common ingredients, ready in under an hour.

Health benefits: Loaded with protein from chicken and vitamins from veggies, it’s a wholesome option that supports everyday wellness without heavy additives.
Versatility: Easily tweak it for different diets, like gluten-free or vegan versions, to suit everyone from students to newlyweds.
Distinctive flavor: The creamy base and blend of herbs create a comforting, flavorful experience that’s far from ordinary noodle soup.

Imagine serving this creamy chicken noodle soup recipe on a cold evening; it’s sure to bring smiles and satisfaction, just like shared by many readers on my blog.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
2. Essential Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

5. Mastering Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

8. Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

This creamy chicken noodle soup relies on a mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and simple pantry staples to build its rich flavor. Below is a comprehensive list of all the ingredients needed, pulled directly from the recipe for accuracy. Each item includes precise measurements to make shopping and preparation straightforward for home cooks.

Full Ingredient List

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
3/4 cup chopped yellow onion (about half a large onion)
1 cup sliced or diced carrots (1 2 large or a handful of baby carrots)

1 cup sliced or diced celery (2 3 stalks)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with 2 tablespoons cornstarch)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust according to broth saltiness)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 teaspoon fresh) or 1 1/2 to 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
8 cups chicken broth (preferably reduced sodium)
1 medium potato, peeled and diced (about 1 1/2 cups or 280 grams)

2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)
1 cup half-and-half or whole milk (dairy or plain oat milk for nondairy; avoid lower-fat milks)
3 to 4 cups uncooked wide egg noodles or other dry pasta (can substitute with 1 cup uncooked rice or skip noodles)

Optional garnish: fresh thyme leaves

These ingredients create a flavorful base from mirepoix vegetables like onion, carrots, and celery, enhanced by herbs and a thickened broth. For the best results, use fresh items where possible, and remember that butter helps soften the veggies and add depth.

How to Prepare the Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting started with this creamy chicken noodle soup recipe is simple and rewarding, especially for busy parents or students looking for a quick meal. Begin by gathering and prepping your ingredients, which sets the stage for smooth cooking. The process builds a flavorful vegetable base, adds herbs for aroma, and finishes with a creamy texture that makes this chicken noodle soup with cream so irresistible.

Step-by-Step Directions

Melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add 3/4 cup chopped yellow onion, 1 cup sliced or diced carrots, 1 cup sliced or diced celery, and 2 garlic cloves, minced; cook for 5 minutes until softened.

Stir in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; cook for 2 minutes to form a thickened base. This step creates the velvety texture that defines this creamy soup.
Add 8 cups chicken broth and 1 medium potato, peeled and diced. Bring to a boil without stirring, then boil for 3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low, partially cover, and simmer for 25 minutes until potatoes are tender. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Finally, add 2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken, 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk, and 3 to 4 cups uncooked wide egg noodles. Cook for about 10 minutes until noodles are tender and the soup thickens. Adjust seasonings again and serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh thyme leaves.

Preparation time includes 30 minutes prep, 40 minutes cook, for a total of 1 hour 10 minutes. This yields approximately 12 cups, perfect for multiple servings or leftovers. For more ideas on similar dishes, check out our creamy chicken and broccoli pasta recipe on the blog.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

One of the best parts of this rich and comforting chicken soup is its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it for various needs. Whether you’re a diet-conscious individual or a food enthusiast, swapping ingredients keeps the essence intact while accommodating preferences. Start with protein alternatives and move to seasonings for a personalized twist.

Common Substitution Options

Protein swaps: Replace chicken with turkey breast, diced tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for vegan or vegetarian versions.

Dairy adjustments: Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of half-and-half for dairy-free options, ensuring the soup stays creamy.
Seasoning ideas: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or dill to enhance flavors without altering the base.

These changes make the soup suitable for gluten-free diets by using alternative noodles, as mentioned in the recipe tips. Remember, low-sodium broth helps control salt levels for health-focused eaters.

Mastering Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics of this creamy chicken noodle soup, try some advanced techniques to elevate the dish. Using homemade broth adds extra depth, turning a simple meal into something special for food enthusiasts. Explore flavor variations and presentation ideas to make it your own.

Pro Tips for Better Results

Technique	Benefit
Use homemade chicken broth	Enhances richness and flavor compared to store-bought
Sear chicken before adding	Builds caramelized layers for a deeper taste
Add a splash of white wine	Introduces complexity during sautéing

For variations, incorporate spices like smoked paprika. Our chicken Alfredo tater tot casserole offers similar creative ideas for chicken-based meals.

This soup’s velvety texture comes from the thickened base, perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your creamy chicken noodle soup fresh and tasty for later, ideal for busy families or working professionals. Follow these steps to maintain its quality. Always cool the soup before storing to prevent bacterial growth.

Storage Guidelines

Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to one week; add broth if it thickens when reheating.
Freeze for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before gently warming on the stove.
Reheat over medium-low heat to keep the creamy texture intact, stirring regularly.

External link: For more on the health benefits of chicken, visit this resource.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Can I make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup without noodles or use a different grain?

Yes, you can skip the noodles entirely if you prefer a lower-carb or gluten-free option. If you want a grain substitute, one cup of uncooked rice works well. Add the rice at the same stage you would normally add noodles. Cooking time may vary slightly with rice, so adjust as needed until tender.

How do I make the soup creamy without using heavy cream?

To achieve creaminess without heavy cream, cook down diced onions, carrots, and celery, then stir in flour to make a thick base. Adding whole milk or half-and-half will provide a rich texture. You can also use plain oat milk as a dairy-free alternative to maintain creaminess, although the flavor might be milder.

What is the best way to prepare chicken for this soup?

Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken simplifies preparation and adds flavor. Alternatively, you can roast or boil chicken breasts and shred them before adding to the soup. Leftover cooked turkey also works well. The key is to add the shredded chicken toward the end of cooking to keep it tender.

Can I prepare Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, start by sautéing the vegetables on the stove, then transfer them to a slow cooker with chicken broth and diced potatoes. Cook on low for about 2 hours, then add the chicken, milk or half-and-half, and noodles, cooking for an additional hour on low. This method develops flavors and keeps the soup creamy.

How long can I store leftover Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup safely?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to three months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove to prevent curdling or separation.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe with Rich and Comforting Flavors