There's nothing more soothing than a warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup on a chilly evening. The comforting aroma of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth slow-cooking throughout the day makes your home feel cozier with every passing hour.
I first discovered the magic of this recipe when juggling work, school runs, and late-night commitments left me craving something quick yet nourishing. This soup has since become a staple in our household, offering both comfort and convenience when life gets busy. Letโs dive into why youโll love this timeless dish!
Why Youโll Love This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy, flavorful, and satisfying soup recipe. Whether you're nursing a cold or just craving something hearty, this soup hits the spot every single time.
First, this recipe is effortless. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. There's no babysitting required, making it perfect for busy days or lazy weekends.
Second, it's packed with wholesome goodness. From the juicy chicken breasts to the nutrient-rich carrots, celery, and onions, every spoonful nourishes both body and soul.
Budget-friendly? Absolutely! With simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, you can feed the whole family without breaking the bank.
Lastly, this soup is versatile. Want to make it gluten-free? Swap the noodles for rice or quinoa. Need a shortcut? Use rotisserie chicken instead of raw. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients Notes
The magic of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a key role in creating its signature taste. Here's a closer look:
Chicken Breasts or Thighs
For the most tender and flavorful results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They cook beautifully in the broth, shredding easily by the time the soup is ready.
Vegetables
Classic choices like carrots, celery, and onion add depth and texture to the soup. Chop them evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
Chicken Broth
Use a high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth as the base. Itโs the foundation of the soupโs flavor, so choose one you love or make your own!
Noodles
Egg noodles are the traditional choice for chicken noodle soup. Add them during the last 20โ30 minutes of cooking to avoid mushiness.
Seasonings
A combination of thyme, garlic, parsley, and bay leaves infuses the soup with classic, comforting flavors. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste after cooking.
Special Equipment
You'll need a reliable slow cooker (6-quart or larger), a cutting board, and a sharp knife for prep.
How to Make This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Creating this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is as simple as it gets. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving soup perfection:
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Chop the carrots, celery, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic if youโre using fresh cloves.
2. Assemble in the Crockpot
Layer the chicken breasts on the bottom of your crockpot. Add the chopped vegetables, minced garlic, thyme, parsley, and a bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring everything is submerged.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6โ8 hours or high for 3โ4 hours. This slow cooking process ensures the chicken is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
4. Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Add the Noodles
About 20โ30 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles. Continue cooking until the noodles are tender but not overcooked.
6. Taste and Adjust
Remove the bay leaf, taste the soup, and adjust the seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Storage Options
This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Hereโs how to store it:
Refrigerator
Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezer
If you plan to freeze the soup, omit the noodles during initial cooking. Store the soup (without noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, cook fresh noodles and add them to the thawed soup.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge first for best results.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Here are some variations to suit your needs:
Gluten-Free Option
Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta, rice, or quinoa. Cook separately and add to the soup just before serving.
Vegetarian Version
Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Herb Variations
Experiment with rosemary, oregano, or dill for a different flavor profile.
Creamy Twist
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before serving for a richer, creamier soup.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a little heat.
Warm, hearty, and endlessly customizable, this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're feeling under the weather or simply need a cozy meal, this recipe will always deliver. Happy cooking! ๐
PrintCrockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Make this comforting Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and flavorful broth. A cozy and easy meal!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soups
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- ยฝ tsp black pepper
- ยฝ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups egg noodles
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts, broth, water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Remove chicken, shred with a fork, and return it to the crockpot.
- Add egg noodles to the crockpot, cover, and cook for another 20-25 minutes on high, until noodles are tender.
- Stir well, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot!
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Add more broth if you prefer a soupier consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580
Leave a Reply