Creamy Chicken and Noodle Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a bowl of ultra-comforting, cheesy goodness, this Creamy Cheddar Chicken Noodle Soup is about to become your new weeknight hero! Brimming with tender chicken, chewy noodle ribbons, and a luxuriously creamy cheddar broth, each spoonful tastes like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of everyday ingredients to make this soup, but each one plays an important role in building flavor or giving Creamy Cheddar Chicken Noodle Soup its classic texture. Let’s break down what makes each component special!

• Skinless Boneless Chicken Breasts: The base of the soup, these turn juicy and tender when simmered, then easily shred for that nostalgic chicken noodle bite.
• Unsalted Butter: Used to sear the chicken and sauté the onions, butter adds a subtle richness right from the start.
• Onion: Freshly chopped onion sweetens and deepens the soup’s flavor as it cooks.
• Chicken Broth: It’s the aromatic foundation—choose a good-quality broth for the heartiest flavor in your soup.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This shortcut adds creamy body and an instant comforting flavor boost.
• Cheddar Cheese Soup: The not-so-secret ingredient that gives our soup that irresistible cheesy taste.
• Frozen Egg Noodles (like Reames): Heartier and chewier than dried noodles, these give the soup its signature texture.
• Granulated Garlic: Adds just enough garlic flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Paprika & Cayenne: These bring color, warmth, and just a spark of background heat.
• Kosher Salt & Cracked Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer, tailored to your own taste.

Variations

One of the best things about Creamy Cheddar Chicken Noodle Soup is how wonderfully adaptable it is! Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it based on what’s in your pantry, dietary needs, or simply what you’re craving tonight.

• Add Veggies: Throw in diced carrots, celery, or peas for extra flavor, nutrients, and color—just sauté them with the onions.
• Swap the Protein: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey instead of the chicken breasts for even faster prep.
• Make It Spicier: Increase the cayenne or add red pepper flakes if you like a little extra warmth.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free egg noodles or rice for a wheat-free twist (just adjust cooking times as needed).
• Cheddar Upgrade: Stir in a handful of freshly-shredded sharp cheddar cheese at the end for even more gooey, cheesy comfort.

How to Make Creamy Cheddar Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Sear the Chicken Breasts

Start by preheating a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat and melting the butter. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brown them in the hot butter until golden on both sides. This step locks in their juices and is key for deep, savory flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Take the chicken out for a moment and add your diced onion right into the same pot. Sauté until the onions turn beautifully translucent and start to soften, stirring occasionally to loosen any flavorful browned bits from the bottom.

Step 3: Simmer Chicken in Broth

Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring it all to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and poach the chicken—this keeps it moist and ensures every bite is infused with savory broth flavor. In about 8–10 minutes, the chicken should be tender enough to shred.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Remove the chicken briefly and add a cup of water to the bubbling broth. Drop in those glorious frozen egg noodles—they’ll soak up all the flavor as they cook! Let them simmer until almost tender, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Step 5: Add Creamy Components and Finish

Shred the chicken and return it to the pot, then stir in the cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese soup, granulated garlic, paprika, and cayenne. Let everything bubble gently until the noodles are fully cooked and the soup is silky, creamy, and brimming with cheesy aroma. Give it a taste, adjust salt and pepper, and serve piping hot!

How to Serve Creamy Cheddar Chicken Noodle Soup

Garnishes

This soup is extra dreamy when you finish it with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a little extra cracked black pepper, or even a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. For real comfort vibes, a swirl of cream or a dusting of paprika can take it over the top!

Side Dishes

A warm, crusty hunk of bread (think: a homemade biscuit or a buttery dinner roll) is pure heaven for soaking up every last drop of Creamy Cheddar Chicken Noodle Soup. Or try a crunchy salad on the side to balance all that cozy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls to wow your guests, or ladle it into individual mugs with a cheddar crisp as a topping. Little ones will love noodle art—add fun-shaped carrots or color with a swirl of hot sauce for extra flair!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Creamy Cheddar Chicken Noodle Soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors seem to get even richer overnight!

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that the noodles may soften upon thawing. For best results, freeze without the noodles and cook them fresh when reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring regularly to keep things creamy and avoid scorching. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash of broth or milk and stir until smooth.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Cheddar Chicken Noodle Soup brings as much coziness and joy to your kitchen as it does to mine! Treat yourself to a bowl soon—you’ll see why this easy, cheesy classic has a permanent place in our family’s comfort food rotation.

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