When the cold weather sets in and you’re craving comfort food, there’s nothing more satisfying than a warm, creamy chicken noodle soup. This ultimate recipe combines the best of both worlds—rich, velvety creaminess paired with hearty chicken and tender noodles. Perfect for cozy nights in or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup is a surefire way to bring comfort to your table.
This creamy chicken noodle soup is not only easy to make, but it’s also a dish that brings everyone together. Packed with delicious flavors and textures, it’s a meal that’s both filling and soothing. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this perfect winter meal!
Ingredients for the Ultimate Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Before we jump into the preparation, let’s gather everything you need to make this delicious soup. The ingredients for this recipe are simple, and you likely already have most of them in your pantry or fridge.
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 bay leaf
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Making this creamy chicken noodle soup is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a comforting, hearty bowl of soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil (or butter) in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. This will bring out the natural sweetness in the vegetables and form a flavorful base for the soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs
Once the vegetables are softened, add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and rosemary to the pot. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic will enhance the flavor of the soup and give it a warm, aromatic scent.
Step 3: Pour in the Chicken Broth
Next, add the chicken broth to the pot, making sure to scrape up any bits of vegetables and garlic from the bottom of the pot. This adds extra flavor to your soup. Add in the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper. Bring the broth to a simmer over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Once the broth is simmering, add the egg noodles to the pot. Continue to cook the soup for 6-8 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on the noodles to ensure they don’t overcook, as they will continue to cook a little after the soup is removed from the heat.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
While the soup is simmering, make the creamy mixture. In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir the flour and butter together for about 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in the milk (or heavy cream), stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and whisking for 3-4 minutes, until the mixture thickens into a creamy consistency. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, add it at this point, and stir until it melts into the mixture.
Step 6: Combine and Simmer
Once the creamy mixture is ready, pour it into the pot with the chicken noodle soup. Stir everything together, and let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. The soup should be thick, creamy, and packed with flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Serve the soup hot and enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a shortcut, use rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked, so all you need to do is shred it and add it to the soup. This saves time without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more chicken broth or reduce the amount of flour in the creamy mixture. For a thicker soup, you can increase the flour or use a little more cream.
- Vegetable Variations: While carrots, celery, and onions are the classic soup veggies, you can add other vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes to make the soup even heartier.
- Add Fresh Herbs: If you want a burst of freshness, add some freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or dill right before serving. Fresh herbs brighten up the soup and balance out the richness of the creamy broth.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
This creamy chicken noodle soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal on a cold day or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers. The combination of tender chicken, soft noodles, and rich, creamy broth is irresistible and makes this soup a family favorite.
Moreover, it’s versatile! You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have available at home. It’s also an excellent make-ahead dish that can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for later use.
Conclusion
Nothing beats the comfort of a hot bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup, and this recipe is sure to become your go-to winter meal. With its creamy texture, flavorful broth, and heartwarming ingredients, this soup is the perfect remedy for chilly nights, illness, or just when you need a little extra comfort. With minimal effort and a handful of simple ingredients, you can make a soup that’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
So next time you’re craving comfort, whip up this creamy chicken noodle soup, and enjoy the warm embrace of homemade goodness in every spoonful!