There's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a rich, creamy broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

I first made this soup on a rainy weekend when I was craving something hearty yet soothing. It quickly became a family favorite, and now it’s my go-to recipe whenever we need a little extra comfort. Let me show you how to make this delicious dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Best Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the creamiest, coziest soup you’ve ever tasted. This recipe ticks all the boxes for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

First off, it’s incredibly simple to make, even on a busy weeknight. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, you can have this soup on the table in under an hour.

The flavors are absolutely delicious and well-balanced. From the savory chicken to the silky broth and perfectly tender noodles, every bite is pure comfort.

This soup is also versatile. You can easily adapt it to include your favorite vegetables, swap out the noodles, or even make it gluten-free. It’s a recipe that truly works for everyone.

Lastly, it’s perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in the fridge for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner later in the week. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you’ll always have some ready for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this creamy chicken noodle soup lies in its combination of fresh and pantry ingredients, all working together to create something magical.

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best flavor and tenderness. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut if you’re in a hurry.

Noodles: Wide egg noodles are classic in this recipe, but feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand. Short pasta like rotini or bowtie also works wonderfully.

Vegetables: A mix of onions, carrots, and celery forms the aromatic base of this soup. Fresh garlic adds depth, while fresh herbs like thyme and parsley elevate the flavor.

Broth and cream: Start with chicken broth for the base, then add heavy cream for richness. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or evaporated milk.

Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme bring out the flavors beautifully. If you like a little kick, a dash of red pepper flakes does the trick.

You’ll also need a large soup pot or Dutch oven for cooking everything in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

How To Make This Best Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Making creamy chicken noodle soup from scratch is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a perfect bowl every time.

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add your chopped onions, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Next, add your chicken breasts (or thighs) to the pot, along with chicken broth and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir in your egg noodles. Cook for 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are tender.

Lower the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed with salt, pepper, or a pinch of thyme.

For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley over the soup just before serving. The soup should be creamy, hearty, and perfectly seasoned.

Storage Options

This creamy chicken noodle soup stores beautifully, making it an ideal meal prep recipe.

In the fridge, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, so it’s even better the next day.

To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore its consistency.

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling the soup once the cream has been added to prevent curdling.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Low-carb: Swap the noodles for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding extra veggies like mushrooms, peas, or spinach.
Herb variations: Experiment with fresh dill, basil, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Cheesy twist: Stir in a handful of shredded Parmesan or sharp cheddar for an extra indulgent touch.

With so many ways to customize this creamy chicken noodle soup, you’ll never run out of reasons to make it. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home