Cook the Chicken:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
Add the Broth and Milk:
Pour in the chicken broth and milk (or heavy cream) into the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Cook the Noodles:
Add the noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until they are tender.
Add the Chicken Back:
Once the noodles are cooked, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the creamy chicken soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for the perfect comforting meal.