Creamy chicken noodle soup
Creamy chicken noodle soup is a warm, comforting bowl filled with tender chicken, soft noodles, and a rich, creamy broth that feels like a gentle hug on a chilly day.…
Tip: save now, cook later.Creamy chicken noodle soup is a warm, comforting bowl filled with tender chicken, soft noodles, and a rich, creamy broth that feels like a gentle hug on a chilly day. The creaminess gives the traditional chicken noodle soup a cozy twist, making it extra smooth and satisfying.
I love making this soup when I want something simple but special. Adding cream makes it feel a little more indulgent without being complicated. I usually use egg noodles for their perfect texture, and the juicy chunks of chicken mix beautifully with the silky broth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds just the right fresh touch.
This soup is my go-to when I’m feeling under the weather or just need a bit of comfort food. It warms you up from the inside out, and I find it tastes even better the next day. Plus, it’s easy to customize—throw in some veggies or a pinch of spices to make it your own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Butter adds richness and helps soften the veggies. You can swap it for olive oil or a vegan spread to keep the soup dairy-free.
Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for quick prep, but leftover roasted or boiled chicken works great too. For a vegetarian option, try mushrooms or tofu.
Noodles: Egg noodles give a nice texture, but rotini or small pasta like shells work if you don’t have egg noodles. Just cook them until tender but not mushy.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup creamy. Half-and-half is lighter but still tasty, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version with a slight twist.
Flour: Flour thickens the broth nicely. If you want gluten-free, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour alternative.
How Do You Keep the Soup Creamy Without It Curdling?
Adding cream to hot soup can be tricky because high heat can cause it to curdle. Here’s how I avoid that:
- Lower the heat to low before adding cream.
- Stir the soup gently and slowly pour in the cream.
- Heat the soup just enough to warm through but don’t let it boil once cream is added.
- Use heavy cream if possible, as it’s less likely to curdle than lighter cream.
Following these steps will keep your soup silky and smooth, making each spoonful delicious!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for cooking the soup evenly and holding all the ingredients comfortably.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring without scratching your pot and helps mix the flour smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts just right for the best flavor.
- Knife and cutting board – necessary for chopping veggies and shredding chicken safely.
- Ladle – makes serving the soup neat and easy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey pieces after holidays for a tasty twist and great use of leftovers.
- Add mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies that boost flavor and nutrition.
- Use Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika for a bit of spice and smoky depth.
- Try swapping heavy cream for coconut milk to make a dairy-free, subtly sweet version.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Broth and Flavor:
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or boiled)
- 2 cups egg noodles (or rotini noodles)
For the Creamy Finish:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare your vegetables and chicken, and around 20 minutes to cook everything together. You’ll spend just about 30 minutes total from start to finish, making it a perfect quick and cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté until the veggies are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
2. Make the Base Thick and Flavorful:
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in 6 cups of chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the dried thyme, basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil.
3. Add Noodles and Chicken:
Add 2 cups of egg noodles to the boiling soup and cook according to the package directions, usually 6-8 minutes until al dente. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and reduce the heat to low.
4. Finish with Cream:
Slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, mixing well to combine. Heat the soup gently without allowing it to boil, to keep it creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if you like. Serve hot alongside your favorite crackers or bread for a comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Soup?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before shredding and adding it to the soup. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup fully and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling. You can also freeze the soup, but add the cream after reheating for best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter creamy soup or coconut milk if you want a dairy-free option. Just note that coconut milk will add a slight coconut flavor to the soup.
How Do I Keep the Noodles from Getting Mushy?
Cook the noodles in the soup just until al dente based on package instructions. If you plan to store leftovers, consider cooking noodles separately and adding them to individual servings to keep them from becoming too soft.
