There’s just something magical about a warm bowl of soup, isn’t there? Especially when it’s cold outside or you’re feeling a bit under the weather. My Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup has been my go-to comfort food for years! It’s rich, hearty, and filled with tender chicken, delicious veggies, and those delightful egg noodles that just soak up all that creamy goodness. I remember my grandmother making this soup on snowy days, and the smell wafting through the house made everything feel cozy. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it over and over again, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend treat. Let’s dive into this deliciousness together!
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your very own comforting bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (perfect for using up leftovers!)
- 1 cup egg noodles (these will give your soup that satisfying heartiness)
- 1 cup carrots, diced (for a touch of sweetness and color)
- 1 cup celery, diced (adds a nice crunch and flavor)
- 1 cup onion, diced (the aromatic base that brings everything together)
- 4 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium for a healthier option)
- 1 cup heavy cream (this is what makes it *creamy*! Don’t skimp on this part)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing the veggies)
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- Salt and pepper to taste (season to your preference!)
That’s it! Simple, right? Now let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious creamy chicken noodle soup! Follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring each spoonful in no time. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
- First, heat up your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it just hot enough to sauté the veggies without burning them.
- Add in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook these for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re softened and starting to smell heavenly. This is where the magic begins!
- Now, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute. You don’t want to overdo it—garlic can burn quickly, and we want that lovely flavor, not bitterness!
- Next, pour in your chicken broth. Bring that beautiful mixture to a boil. You’ll hear it bubbling away, and it’s so satisfying!
- Once it’s boiling, add the egg noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until they’re tender but still have a bit of bite.
- Now, stir in your shredded chicken and heavy cream. This is where it gets creamy and dreamy! Stir everything together until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. I always say, taste as you go! You can adjust the seasoning to make it just right for you.
- Finally, let the soup simmer for about 5 more minutes to meld all those wonderful flavors together before serving. Wow, the smell is going to be incredible!
And there you have it! Your delicious creamy chicken noodle soup is ready to be enjoyed. Just grab a bowl, maybe a slice of bread, and dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Comforting and creamy, just like a warm hug.
- Loaded with tender chicken and fresh veggies for a wholesome meal.
- One pot means less cleanup—yay!
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices.
Tips for Success with Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
To make sure your creamy chicken noodle soup turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips! First off, using leftover rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sautéing some herbs like thyme or rosemary with the veggies for a fragrant twist!
Also, keep an eye on your egg noodles. They can go from perfectly tender to mushy in a blink, so taste them a minute or two before the package suggests. And remember, adjust the seasoning as you go—everyone’s taste is different! Don’t forget to let the soup simmer a bit after adding the cream—it helps thicken it up and lets those flavors marry beautifully.
Lastly, if you want to keep this soup creamy without the heaviness, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. Trust me, you’ll have a delightful bowl of soup every time!
Variations of Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
One of the best things about my creamy chicken noodle soup is how adaptable it is! If you’re in the mood for something different, here are a few fun variations to try:
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some fresh spinach, peas, or even corn for added nutrition and color. Just throw them in during the last few minutes of cooking!
- Herb Infusion: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary while sautéing the veggies for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth.
- Mushroom Magic: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.
- Asian Twist: Swap the egg noodles for rice noodles and add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for a delightful fusion!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of this comforting classic!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your creamy chicken noodle soup is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those cozy leftovers! If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave a little space at the top for expansion. It should stay good for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is a breeze. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge first. Then, you can warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems too thick, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You’ll have that comforting flavor back in no time!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a general breakdown for a serving of my creamy chicken noodle soup:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 2g
This hearty soup not only fills you up but also provides a comforting blend of nutrients! Enjoy it guilt-free as part of a balanced meal!
FAQ About Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a delicious flavor to your soup.
What if I don’t have egg noodles? No worries! You can substitute with any pasta you have on hand, or even rice noodles for a fun twist!
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can! Just store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
How can I make this soup lighter? You can substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version that still tastes great!
Can I freeze creamy chicken noodle soup? Yes, just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: 7 Ways to Warm Your Soul
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and creamy chicken noodle soup filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in shredded chicken and heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for a quicker meal.
- Feel free to add more vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup