When life feels a little too busy—or the weather turns gray—nothing wraps you in warmth quite like a bowl of homemade comfort. This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is my personal cure for chilly evenings and long days. It’s rich, hearty, and so simple that it practically cooks itself while you’re wrangling kids, folding laundry, or (let’s be honest) just trying to sit still for five minutes.
I’ve made countless versions of chicken soup over the years, but this one has become my forever favorite. The secret? A luscious, creamy broth that hugs every noodle and tender piece of chicken like a cozy blanket. It’s the kind of meal that soothes your soul as much as it fills your belly.
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This isn’t just another chicken soup—it’s the ultimate comfort food makeover.
Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation:
- Creamy, not heavy. The texture is rich and velvety, but it won’t weigh you down.
- Family-approved. Even my pickiest eater asks for seconds (and that’s saying something!).
- Quick to make. It’s ready in under an hour but tastes like it simmered all day.
- Perfect for leftovers. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
- Simple ingredients. Nothing fancy—just real, wholesome goodness.
If you love this recipe, you’ll probably adore my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup for a classic version or my Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken Rice Soup for those days when the slow cooker does all the work.
What Does Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Taste Like?
Imagine a classic chicken noodle soup that went to a spa for the weekend and came back more luxurious. The broth is smooth and creamy with hints of thyme, rosemary, and garlic that make your kitchen smell heavenly. The noodles soak up that flavor, while tender shredded chicken brings the heartiness we crave on cozy nights.
And when you top it all with a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley? It’s pure comfort in a bowl—nostalgic, nourishing, and oh-so-satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Every good soup starts with honest, wholesome ingredients—and this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is no exception. These simple pantry staples come together to create something magical, the kind of cozy meal that fills your home with warmth and the scent of love simmering away.
Here’s what you’ll need (and a few tips from my Texas kitchen to make it shine):
1. Olive Oil (2–3 tablespoons)
A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil starts this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe off right. It adds a subtle richness and helps the veggies soften without burning. If you prefer, you can use a touch of butter for a deeper, homestyle flavor—just keep the heat gentle.
Try using the same olive oil in my Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup for another weeknight comfort dish.
2. Fresh Vegetables: Onion, Celery, and Carrots
- 1 large yellow onion, diced – It’s the heart of the soup base, bringing natural sweetness as it caramelizes.
- 4 celery stalks, diced – Adds a light, herbal freshness that balances the cream.
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and diced – These little orange gems lend color, sweetness, and that familiar nostalgic flavor we all crave in chicken noodle soup.
This trio—known as the “holy trinity” of soup-making—creates a flavor foundation that makes this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe so irresistible.
For a veggie-forward twist, check out my Cheesy Vegetable Chowder, which uses a similar base but adds creamy potatoes and broccoli.
3. Garlic, Thyme, and Rosemary
- 8 cloves garlic, minced – Bold, aromatic, and essential. Garlic deepens the broth and gives the soup a comforting kick.
- 3 tablespoons fresh thyme – Brings earthy depth and warmth.
- 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary – Adds a piney, woodsy fragrance that makes your kitchen smell like a country farmhouse.
Fresh herbs make all the difference. They give your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe that “made from scratch” charm every time.
If you’re an herb lover, you’ll adore my Lemon Orzo Soup Recipe, which layers in bright lemon with fresh thyme for a lighter twist.
4. All-Purpose Flour (⅓ cup)
This humble ingredient transforms your soup from classic to creamy perfection. The flour gently thickens the broth, giving it that luxurious texture we all love. Whisk it in slowly to prevent lumps—it’s worth the patience.
5. Chicken Broth (8 cups, low-sodium)
Use a good-quality low-sodium broth to control saltiness and let the herbs and cream shine. If you have time, homemade broth from your own kitchen is pure gold—it adds that “grandma’s touch” to this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
For another broth-based favorite, try my Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup. It’s zesty, clean, and nourishing.
6. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (1 pound)
Thighs are the star here—they’re tender, flavorful, and stay juicy even after simmering. Once cooked, shred them right into the pot for that hearty, rustic feel.
You can swap for chicken breasts if that’s what you have, but thighs give this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe its signature richness and depth.
If you’re a fan of creamy chicken dinners, my Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet uses similar tender chicken for a zesty spin.
7. Wide Egg Noodles (12 ounces)
No Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe would be complete without these comforting, curly noodles. They soak up all that creamy goodness, giving every bite the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
For best results, cook the noodles just until tender—they’ll continue to soften as they sit in the hot broth.
Love pasta-style soups? You might also enjoy my Cozy One Pot Ravioli Soup.
8. Heavy Cream (1 cup)
Here’s where the magic happens. The cream turns your classic soup into something beautifully indulgent without being too rich. It creates that velvety finish that gives this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe its comforting charm.
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a touch of whole milk.
9. Lemon Zest and Fresh Dill (Optional, but Highly Recommended)
A bit of lemon zest adds brightness that cuts through the richness, and dill offers a fresh herbal pop. Together, they lift the flavor beautifully, making every spoonful balanced and refreshing.
If you love lemony soups, don’t miss my Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken Rice Soup. It’s just as comforting but with a sunny twist.
10. Finishing Touches: Parsley and Rosemary Garnish
Fresh herbs aren’t just for looks—they add a burst of color and fragrance that makes your soup feel restaurant-worthy. Sprinkle them on just before serving to wake up the flavors of your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe.
For another herb-forward comfort dish, try my Chicken Pot Pie Soup, a reader favorite packed with the same cozy aroma.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
There’s something so comforting about the rhythm of soup-making—the chopping, the stirring, the slow simmering that fills your kitchen with warmth.
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe may look simple, but every step builds flavor and comfort, layer by layer. So grab your favorite pot, take a deep breath, and let’s make some magic together.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables — the Flavor Foundation
In a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot (like a Dutch oven), heat 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your diced onion, celery, and carrots—the holy trinity that gives this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe its rich, homemade base.
Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the veggies soften and start to smell sweet and fragrant. You’ll know you’re on the right track when your kitchen smells like grandma’s kitchen on a Sunday afternoon.
Jessica’s Tip: Don’t rush this step! Giving your vegetables time to release their natural sugars deepens the flavor of the broth later on.
If you love hearty, veggie-packed soups, try my Cheesy Vegetable Chowder—it’s another comfort favorite that uses a similar technique.
Step 2: Add Aromatics — Garlic, Thyme, and Rosemary
Once the vegetables are soft and golden at the edges, stir in 8 minced garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons of fresh thyme, and 3 tablespoons of rosemary. Let them sizzle for 1–2 minutes until your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible.
These herbs are the soul of this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe—they bring depth, warmth, and that signature “from scratch” aroma that makes every spoonful special.
Jessica’s Tip: If fresh herbs aren’t available, use half the amount of dried herbs instead.
For a bright, herby variation, check out my Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup. It’s lighter but just as nourishing.
Step 3: Stir in the Flour — the Secret to Creaminess
Sprinkle ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour over your sautéed vegetables. Stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes to coat everything evenly. This step thickens your broth later and gives your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe that signature velvety texture.
Don’t skip the stirring—this little bit of effort ensures a smooth base without any lumps.
Jessica’s Tip: If you’re gluten-free, you can use cornstarch instead (about half the amount). Just whisk it into cold broth first before adding it to the pot.
Step 4: Add the Broth — Watch It Transform
Slowly pour in 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, whisking as you go to dissolve the flour mixture evenly. This is where your kitchen officially starts smelling like heaven on earth.
Once all the broth is in, give everything a good stir, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. That’s pure flavor gold right there.
Let the broth come to a gentle simmer—it should look golden and slightly thickened.
For another broth-based favorite, try my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup if you’re craving a lighter, non-creamy version.
Step 5: Add the Chicken — the Heart of the Soup
Nestle 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs right into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender enough to shred.
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken to the soup.
This step is where your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe takes on its hearty, soul-warming texture—every bowl will be full of tender chicken in a silky broth.
Jessica’s Tip: Chicken thighs stay juicy, but if you prefer leaner meat, use chicken breasts. Just reduce cooking time by a few minutes to keep them tender.
If you adore creamy chicken dishes, you’ll love my Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet. It’s tangy, creamy, and bursting with flavor.
Step 6: Add the Noodles — That Classic Comfort Bite
Add 12 ounces of wide egg noodles directly into the simmering pot. Cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The noodles will absorb that rich, creamy broth and become tender and flavorful.
Jessica’s Tip: Don’t overcook! They’ll continue softening as the soup rests. If you plan to freeze leftovers, cook noodles separately and add them when reheating.
For a fun twist on creamy noodle soups, try my Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup Recipe. It’s like pasta night in a bowl.
Step 7: Stir in the Cream — The Cozy Finishing Touch
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. You’ll see the soup turn beautifully creamy and thick in seconds—it’s the kind of moment that makes all the chopping worth it.
Taste the soup and season with more salt and pepper if needed. Then, add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 3 tablespoons of fresh dill if you’d like an extra layer of brightness.
This is what takes your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe from good to unforgettable. The lemon zest adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cream, while the dill brings balance and freshness.
For another cozy, creamy favorite, try my Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup—perfect for busy weeknights.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve — A Bowl of Comfort Awaits
Ladle the soup into big bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprig of rosemary. Serve it with crusty bread, warm biscuits, or even a simple green salad.
Each spoonful is pure comfort—silky broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles all nestled together. It’s everything a comforting Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe should be.
Jessica’s Tip: Leftovers taste even better the next day! The flavors deepen as the herbs and cream meld together overnight.
If you love cozy soups like this, don’t miss my Chicken Pot Pie Soup—it’s another creamy classic that always gets rave reviews.
Bonus Step: Storing and Reheating
- To Refrigerate: Store your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Leave out the noodles, freeze the base, and add fresh noodles when reheating for the best texture.
When reheating, warm slowly on the stovetop over low heat—this helps keep that silky texture smooth and luscious.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Don’t overcook the noodles. They’ll keep softening in the broth, so pull them just before they’re fully tender.
- Want to make it lighter? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even coconut milk.
- Use rotisserie chicken. A great shortcut when time’s short!
- Freeze it smart. Leave out the noodles before freezing. Add them fresh when reheating for best texture.
- Make it your own. Stir in spinach, peas, or even a handful of corn for a fun twist.
Storage for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup without noodles for up to 3 months. Reheat gently and add fresh noodles when serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts work great too—just don’t overcook them.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles and swap flour for cornstarch.
What goes well with creamy chicken noodle soup?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad make the perfect pair.
If you’re in the mood for something citrusy and fresh next time, try my Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Soup—it’s light, bright, and every bit as comforting.
Conclusion
Whether it’s a rainy evening or a Sunday supper with family, this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe brings warmth to the table and joy to the heart. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you that food really is love—one simmering pot at a time.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal.
Print
The Best Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Entree, Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is a delicious twist on the classic, with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or when you need comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
Vegetables:
- 2–3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 celery stalks, diced
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and diced
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh thyme
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary
Other Ingredients:
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh dill (optional)
Garnishes:
- Parsley
- Rosemary
Instructions
1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, sauté olive oil, onion, celery, carrots, salt, and pepper for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, then stir in flour and cook for another minute.
3. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring until fully incorporated.
4. Add chicken thighs to the broth and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
5. Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
6. Add noodles and cook for 7-8 minutes until tender.
7. Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and dill if using. Season with more salt and pepper to taste.
8. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and rosemary.
9. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, comforting soup.
Notes
Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
To freeze, omit the noodles and store the base for up to 3 months. Add fresh noodles when reheating.
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried versions can be substituted in a pinch.
