Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

This Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for anyone who loves classic comfort food but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, takes less than an hour from start to finish, and uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The creamy base, combined with the savory flavor of chicken and the freshness of vegetables, makes it a satisfying meal for both lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit dietary needs or personal preferences.

Ingredients Needed

To make this delicious and hearty soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped finely
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1.5 pounds uncooked chicken breasts
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 2 generous cups uncooked egg noodles
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Note: You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor or use gluten-free flour to make the soup gluten-free.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Large soup pot
• Chopping board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle
• Soup bowls for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil and butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts, add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and slightly golden.

2. Add Garlic and Flour

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 minute. This will help to thicken the soup later.

3. Incorporate the Broth and Chicken

Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to dissolve the flour completely. Add the uncooked chicken breasts to the pot along with the Italian seasoning and heavy cream. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Let it cook for 10 minutes.

4. Add the Noodles

After the chicken has simmered, stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Cover the pot again with the lid slightly open and continue simmering for another 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir halfway through to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

5. Prepare the Chicken

Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot and place them on a cutting board. Use a fork and knife to shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot.

6. Season and Finish

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Finally, stir in the freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Your creamy chicken noodle soup is ready to be served!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy, add them towards the end of cooking and monitor closely.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the amount of cream, or use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the vegetables first enhances their flavor, adding depth to the soup. Don’t skip this step.
• Not Stirring the Flour Thoroughly: Ensure the flour is fully dissolved in the broth to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Overcooking the Chicken: To keep the chicken tender and juicy, avoid overcooking. Remove it from the pot as soon as it’s cooked through, shred it, and add it back at the end.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Serve the soup in deep bowls and garnish with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper for an elegant touch.
• Pair with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas for extra nutrition.
• Use Different Noodles: Swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta, whole wheat noodles, or even rice noodles based on your preference.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Simply shred the chicken and add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. The soup will still be creamy and delicious.

Q: How can I thicken the soup without flour?
You can use cornstarch or arrowroot powder as a gluten-free thickening agent. Mix a small amount with cold water and stir it into the soup towards the end.

Conclusion

This Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a delightful and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with delicious flavors, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Try it today and share your experience with friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more easy and delicious recipes!

Print