This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul. Perfect for chilly evenings, it combines rich flavors with comforting ingredients like rotisserie chicken, potatoes, and herbs. Its versatility makes it suitable for family dinners or cozy nights in. With a velvety broth and tender noodles, this soup stands out as a go-to comfort food.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Vegetables and Aromatics
- Seasonings
- Broth and Main Ingredients
- For Garnish
- How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
- Step 2: Add Seasonings and Flour
- Step 3: Add Broth and Potato
- Step 4: Simmer
- Step 5: Add Chicken, Cream, and Noodles
- Step 6: Serve
- How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- With Fresh Bread
- Topped with Herbs
- Accompanied by Salads
- How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup so special?
- Can I substitute ingredients in the Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
- How do I store leftovers of Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
- What are some variations of Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe uses rotisserie chicken, making prep fast and hassle-free.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of thyme, oregano, and creamy broth creates a deliciously satisfying taste experience.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you prefer stovetop or slow cooker methods, this recipe adapts to your cooking style.
- Hearty Yet Light: Enjoy a filling meal without feeling weighed down—perfect for any occasion.
- Customizable Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or pasta shapes to make it your own!
Tools and Preparation
To make this creamy chicken noodle soup efficiently, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup (100g) chopped yellow onion (about 1/2 a large onion)
- 1 cup (120g) sliced or diced carrots (1–2 large carrots or a handful of baby carrots)
- 1 cup (120g) sliced or diced celery (2–3 stalks)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings
- 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
Broth and Main Ingredients
- 8 cups (1.92 liters) chicken broth (preferably reduced sodium)
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (about 1 1/2 cups or 280g)
- 2 cups (about 250g) shredded or chopped cooked chicken
- 1 cup (240ml) half-and-half or whole milk
- 3–4 cups (about 112–150g) uncooked wide egg noodles (or other dry pasta, see notes)
For Garnish
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme leaves
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
* Cook while stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Flour
Stir in the flour along with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
* Cook for another 2 minutes while stirring constantly to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add Broth and Potato
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potato.
* Stir everything together well.
* Increase heat to medium-high until it reaches a boil. Boil for about 3 minutes without stirring.
Step 4: Simmer
Lower the heat to medium-low.
* Partially cover the pot allowing it to simmer for approximately 25 minutes until potatoes are soft.
* Taste the soup at this point; adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Add Chicken, Cream, and Noodles
Stir in the shredded chicken along with half-and-half/milk and uncooked noodles.
* Cook for about 10 minutes until noodles are tender and the soup thickens.
* Taste again; adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm with an optional garnish of fresh thyme leaves on top. Enjoy your hearty bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Serving creamy chicken noodle soup can elevate your dining experience. This comforting dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some great serving suggestions to consider.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: The rich flavors of garlic bread complement the soup beautifully, adding a savory touch.
Topped with Herbs
- Fresh Thyme: Sprinkling fresh thyme leaves on top brightens the flavor and adds a pop of color.
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only enhances presentation but also introduces freshness.
Accompanied by Salads
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the soup.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Creating the ultimate creamy chicken noodle soup involves a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is always a hit.
- Use Quality Broth: A rich, flavorful broth makes all the difference. Opt for homemade or reduced-sodium options for better control over seasoning.
- Sauté Vegetables Properly: Sautéing vegetables until they are soft enhances their natural sweetness and deepens the flavor profile of the soup.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
- Choose the Right Noodles: Wide egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes that suit your taste.
- Add Creaminess Wisely: If you prefer a richer texture, consider adding more half-and-half or even cream. Just remember to adjust the broth accordingly.
- Simmer Gently: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps meld flavors together without overcooking the ingredients.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Pairing side dishes with creamy chicken noodle soup can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.
- Buttered Cornbread: Sweet cornbread slathered in butter adds warmth and sweetness to each bite.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a delicious crunch that contrasts well with the smooth soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers filled with rice and ground meat make for a filling side dish alongside the soup.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits topped with melted cheese bring an indulgent element to your meal.
- Simple Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add an enjoyable crunch that pairs nicely with creamy textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making creamy chicken noodle soup, avoiding common pitfalls can lead to a more satisfying dish.
- Using low-quality chicken: Opt for rotisserie chicken or well-cooked chicken breast for the best flavor and texture.
- Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this crucial step!
- Not adjusting seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to elevate the flavors.
- Overcooking noodles: Add noodles in the last stages of cooking. They should be tender but not mushy.
- Ignoring broth quality: The broth forms the base of your soup. Use high-quality or homemade broth for a richer taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 1 week for best flavor and freshness.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
- Can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, uncovered, in 1-minute increments until hot, stirring between intervals.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add broth if needed to adjust consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup so special?
This creamy chicken noodle soup combines rich flavors with a light texture, making it comforting yet not overly heavy.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
Absolutely! You can use different vegetables, pasta types, or even cream alternatives depending on your dietary preferences.
How do I store leftovers of Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
What are some variations of Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
You can add spinach or kale for extra nutrition, swap noodles for rice, or use spices like paprika for additional flavor.
Final Thoughts
This creamy chicken noodle soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and can be customized with various ingredients. Give it a try and make it your own!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
PrintCreamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up chilly evenings. This easy-to-make dish combines tender rotisserie chicken, fresh vegetables, and wide egg noodles in a rich and velvety broth that’s both satisfying and heartwarming. With its delightful blend of thyme and oregano, this soup is versatile enough for family dinners or cozy nights in. It’s a go-to recipe that can easily adapt to your personal taste preferences, whether you want to add extra veggies or swap out the pasta. Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy delight that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 3–4 cups uncooked wide egg noodles
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in flour, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add diced potato; bring to a boil without stirring for about 3 minutes.
- Lower heat to medium-low; partially cover and simmer for about 25 minutes until potatoes are soft.
- Add shredded chicken, half-and-half/milk, and noodles; cook for an additional 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Serve warm with optional fresh thyme garnish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups (360g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
