This one-pot creamy chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food. It features tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and wide egg noodles in a rich, velvety broth that's surprisingly simple to make from scratch.
Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot (5-6 quart)
Wooden spoon or spatula
Whisk
Cutting board and chef's knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
2tbspunsalted butter
1mediumyellow oniondiced
3mediumcarrotspeeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
3stalkscelerysliced
3clovesgarlicminced
1/3cupall-purpose flour
6cupslow-sodium chicken broth
1lbboneless, skinless chicken breastsor thighs
2tspdried thyme
2tspdried parsley
1cupheavy creamor half-and-half for a lighter version
8ozwide egg noodles
salt and black pepperto taste
fresh dill or parsleyfor garnish, optional
Instructions
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. This cooks the raw flour taste out and creates a roux, which will thicken your soup beautifully. Trust me, don't skip this step—it's the secret to a velvety, not gloopy, texture.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Add the whole chicken breasts, dried thyme, dried parsley, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
Remove the cooked chicken breasts to a cutting board and shred them using two forks. Meanwhile, increase the heat under the pot to medium and add the egg noodles. Cook according to package directions, usually 6-8 minutes, until al dente.
Once the noodles are cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Warm through for 2-3 minutes—do not let it boil. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
Chef's Tips:• For the best flavor, use a good quality, low-sodium chicken broth. You control the salt.• Avoid overcooking the noodles. They will continue to soften in the hot soup.• Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.Food Safety:• Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before removing to shred• Cool soup to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth