This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. It’s a delightful option for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or whenever you crave something hearty yet light. The velvety broth, enhanced by the goodness of potatoes, thyme, and oregano, will warm your soul. Plus, using rotisserie chicken makes this dish quick and easy to prepare without compromising on taste.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Soup Base:
- For Seasoning:
- For the Broth:
- For Creaminess:
- For Noodles:
- Optional Garnish:
- How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
- Step 2: Add Seasonings and Flour
- Step 3: Add Broth and Potato
- Step 4: Simmer
- Step 5: Add Chicken, Cream, and Noodles
- Step 6: Serve
- How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Pair with Fresh Bread
- Add a Fresh Salad
- Top with Herbs
- Include a Squeeze of Lemon
- How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
- What if I don’t have half-and-half?
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- How can I customize my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
- Is this soup suitable for freezing?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With a prep time of only 30 minutes, you can have this soup on the table in no time.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables or pasta you have on hand; this recipe adapts to your pantry.
- Comfort Food Classic: This creamy chicken noodle soup is sure to satisfy your cravings for warm, home-cooked meals.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store leftovers for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.
- Kid-Friendly: With familiar flavors and textures, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making this creamy chicken noodle soup, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup (100g) chopped yellow onion (about 1/2 a large onion)
- 1 cup (120g) sliced or diced carrots (1–2 large carrots or a handful of baby carrots)
- 1 cup (120g) sliced or diced celery (2–3 stalks)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For Seasoning:
- 1/4 cup (31g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
For the Broth:
- 8 cups (1.92 liters) chicken broth (preferably reduced sodium)
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (about 1 1/2 cups or 280g)
For Creaminess:
- 2 cups (about 250g) shredded or chopped cooked chicken
- 1 cup (240ml) half-and-half or whole milk
For Noodles:
- 3–4 cups (about 112–150g) uncooked wide egg noodles (or other dry pasta)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh thyme leaves
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Flour
Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Cook for an additional 2 minutes while stirring constantly to remove any raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add Broth and Potato
Pour in the chicken broth along with the diced potato. Stir well and increase heat to medium-high. Bring the soup to a boil without stirring for about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer
Reduce heat to medium-low. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25 minutes until potatoes are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Add Chicken, Cream, and Noodles
Stir in the cooked chicken, half-and-half or milk, and noodles. Cook for around 10 minutes until noodles are tender and soup thickens. Taste again for seasoning adjustments.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your creamy chicken noodle soup warm with optional fresh thyme leaves as garnish. Enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Creamy chicken noodle soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main meal or pairing it with sides, there are plenty of options to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Slice a fresh baguette for dipping into the soup’s creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for a flavorful addition that complements the soup.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the soup.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a light contrast.
Top with Herbs
- Fresh Thyme: Garnish each bowl with fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic touch.
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley over the soup for added color and flavor.
Include a Squeeze of Lemon
- Lemon Wedge: Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a little squeeze can brighten up the flavors of the soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Perfecting creamy chicken noodle soup involves paying attention to detail and adjusting flavors. Here are some tips to make your soup even better:
- Bold Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices. A dash of cayenne pepper can add warmth.
- Quality Broth: Use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best flavor.
- Right Noodles: Choose wide egg noodles or another pasta shape that holds up well in broth without becoming mushy.
- Cream Consistency: For a richer taste, adjust the amount of cream or milk based on your preference.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition and texture.
- Simmer Time: Allow the soup to simmer longer if possible; this helps develop deeper flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
A hearty bowl of creamy chicken noodle soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for mopping up broth.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky biscuits loaded with cheese provide a comforting complement.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add health benefits and vibrant colors to your meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers offer a substantial side that balances the lightness of the soup.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and bright flavors after rich soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges sprinkled with herbs make for a delightful crunchy contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to steer clear of. Here are some mistakes you should avoid:
- Ignoring the Vegetables: Not sautéing the vegetables properly can lead to a bland soup. Always cook them until they soften for maximum flavor.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Forgetting to season your soup can result in a lackluster dish. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
- Overcooking the Noodles: Adding noodles too early or cooking them for too long can make them mushy. Add them near the end of cooking for a perfect texture.
- Using Regular Chicken Broth: Using regular (not reduced sodium) broth without adjusting salt can make your soup too salty. Always taste and adjust as needed.
- Neglecting the Garnish: Leaving out fresh herbs like thyme means missing out on an aromatic finish. A simple sprinkle elevates the dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It will last for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding extra broth if needed, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is convenient and adds great flavor to your creamy chicken noodle soup.
What if I don’t have half-and-half?
You can substitute half-and-half with whole milk or plain oat milk for a lighter option.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and follow the instructions provided for great results.
How can I customize my Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup?
Feel free to add different vegetables like peas or corn, or switch noodles according to your preference!
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well! Just remember to add some broth when reheating since noodles may absorb liquid over time.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand. Whether you enjoy it on chilly evenings or as a quick meal solution, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and discover your favorite variations!
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Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal. Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make soup features tender rotisserie chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty egg noodles simmered in a velvety broth. With just 30 minutes of preparation, you can enjoy a bowl of warmth that brings everyone together. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share, this creamy chicken noodle soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup sliced or diced carrots
- 1 cup sliced or diced celery
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 2 cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken
- 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
- 3–4 cups uncooked wide egg noodles
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in flour, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced potato; bring to a boil without stirring for 3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cover partially; simmer for 25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Add cooked chicken, half-and-half or milk, and noodles; cook for another 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Serve warm with optional fresh thyme garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg