If comfort food had a queen, this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe would surely wear the crown. Imagine a luscious blend of tender cooked chicken, velvety cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and a subtle touch of smoked paprika mingling with delicate angel hair noodles all bathing in a rich, creamy broth. This soup wraps you up like your favorite cozy blanket on a chilly day but does so with the perfect balance of flavors and textures to keep every spoonful exciting. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or something to impress guests with warmth and heart, this recipe is an absolute winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its beautiful simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role—from the savory chicken and fresh veggies to the special additions like cream cheese and ranch seasoning that elevate the classic chicken noodle soup to an irresistibly creamy delight.
- 1 Tablespoon butter: For sautéing veggies and adding rich, buttery flavor right from the start.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Adds a foundational sweetness that deepens as it cooks.
- 1/2 cup chopped celery: Brings a crisp freshness and subtle earthiness.
- 2 cups sliced carrots: For natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Provides that signature aromatic punch.
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped: The protein star delivering hearty, satisfying bites.
- 1 10.5 oz. can condensed chicken soup: Adds creaminess and depth with its concentrated flavors.
- 7 cups low-sodium chicken stock: Forms the savory liquid base, keeping the soup moist and flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 cup water: Balances the broth’s consistency.
- 1 cup whole milk: Contributes smoothness and a gentle richness.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: The secret ingredient for that utterly creamy texture that makes this soup special.
- 1 Tablespoon Ranch dressing mix: Enhances the flavor profile with herbs and a touch of tanginess.
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: Adds smoky warmth and subtle complexity.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese: Melts in for a cheesy, savory finish.
- 8 oz. angel hair pasta, uncooked: Delicate and quick-cooking noodles that soak up all the delicious broth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and brightening all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by melting butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in diced onion, chopped celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté the veggies until just tender—about 4 to 5 minutes—which allows their natural flavors to shine and develop a subtle sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic at the end to ensure it remains fragrant but not bitter. This step sets the savory foundation for your creamy soup.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base and Chicken
Next, add your pre-cooked chicken, condensed chicken soup, chicken stock, water, and whole milk into the pot. Stir in the softened cream cheese thoroughly to melt it seamlessly into the broth. Sprinkle in the Ranch dressing mix and smoked paprika for that perfect, well-rounded flavor lift. Combine everything gently but completely so that the broth turns delightfully creamy, rich, and ready to simmer.
Step 3: Simmer for Depth
Bring the soup mixture up to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to marry beautifully, the veggies to soften fully, and the broth to thicken slightly. It’s where the magic of blending textures and tastes happens, so don’t rush this step!
Step 4: Add Cheese and Pasta
Stir in the sharp cheddar cheese and uncooked angel hair pasta. Continue to simmer until the noodles are tender and cooked through—usually just a few minutes with angel hair. The cheese melts into the soup, adding another layer of creamy goodness while the pasta absorbs the flavorful broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and your creamy chicken noodle soup is ready to warm the soul.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can add that extra flair and boost the flavor profile. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives for a brisk, fresh contrast to the rich soup. Some cracked black pepper or a spritz of lemon juice can also brighten every spoonful. For a bit of indulgence, a few crispy bacon bits or a dollop of sour cream are delightful additions.
Side Dishes
This soup stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or garlic toast makes the meal even more comforting. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the creamy richness. If you want to keep things extra cozy, a side of roasted vegetables or a warm grilled cheese sandwich is an unbeatable companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Wondering how to impress guests with this soup? Serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, Instagram-worthy presentation. You can also layer it in clear mugs or bowls so the vibrant veggies and creamy broth peek through. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to elevate the look with color and freshness. These little touches make your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe just as visually inviting as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover soup should be cooled to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the cream cheese and milk, stirring before reheating helps restore the creamy consistency perfectly.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully but to maintain the best texture, consider freezing it without the pasta. Store the creamy broth and chicken mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight and cook fresh pasta to stir in just before serving.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the milk and cheese from separating. Add a splash of milk or broth as needed to loosen the consistency. If you froze it without noodles, cook the pasta separately and add it right before serving to keep noodles tender and perfect.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a quick and convenient option that adds extra flavor. Just shred or chop it before adding to the soup.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in this recipe?
Greek yogurt or mascarpone can be good alternatives, but keep in mind these may slightly change the texture and tanginess of the soup.
Is it okay to use different pasta shapes?
Yes, feel free to swap angel hair for other quick-cooking pasta such as small shells or orzo. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, replace cream cheese and cheddar with dairy-free alternatives and use unsweetened plant-based milk. The soup will still be creamy and delicious!
How thick should the soup be?
This soup should have a creamy, somewhat thick broth that lightly coats the noodles without feeling heavy. You can adjust the thickness by adding more stock or milk if it’s too thick, or cook a little longer to reduce if it’s too thin.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in your kitchen arsenal, you’re ready to bring some serious comfort and joy to the table anytime. It’s straightforward to make, deeply satisfying to eat, and endlessly customizable to suit your tastes. I can’t wait for you to cozy up with a big bowl of this creamy, cheesy, chicken-filled goodness and make it a new family favorite. Happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender chicken, a medley of sautéed vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth infused with cream cheese, cheddar, and savory spices. Perfect for chilly days, this soup combines angel hair pasta with a delicious blend of ingredients for a satisfying meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Chicken and Dairy
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Broth and Seasoning
- 1 10.5 oz. can condensed chicken soup
- 7 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 cup water
- 1 Tablespoon Ranch dressing mix
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz. angel hair uncooked
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, chopped celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are just tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its flavor.
- Add Chicken and Liquids: Stir in the chopped cooked chicken, condensed chicken soup, low-sodium chicken stock, water, whole milk, softened cream cheese, Ranch dressing mix, and smoked paprika. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, ensuring the cream cheese is blended smoothly into the broth.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to develop its creamy texture.
- Cook the Pasta and Add Cheese: Add the uncooked angel hair pasta and cheddar cheese to the simmering soup. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken stock to control the salt content.
- For a thicker soup, add a bit more cream cheese or reduce the liquid slightly.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent curdling.
- Angel hair pasta cooks quickly, so watch closely to avoid overcooking the noodles.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, and omit the cream cheese.
