Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Imagine setting up your crockpot in the morning, knowing that by dinner, you'll have a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup waiting for you. This recipe is straightforward, yet offers a depth of flavor that might surprise you. Start by placing chicken in the slow cooker, add vegetables and seasonings, and let it simmer on a low setting. As the day goes on, the aroma will fill your home, hinting at the rich taste that awaits. But how do you get that perfect balance of tenderness and flavor? There's a key step you won't want to miss.
Recipe
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for a cozy meal that requires minimal effort. This dish combines tender chicken with wholesome vegetables and egg noodles, simmering together to create a savory and comforting broth. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and the convenience of using a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld while you go about your day.
Whether you're looking for a hearty meal during cooler months or a nourishing dish to soothe a cold, this soup is sure to satisfy. The preparation is straightforward, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices. By using a crockpot, you can easily set the ingredients to cook and come back to a delicious, ready-to-serve meal.
The combination of chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and herbs creates a classic flavor profile that can be adjusted to suit your tastes. With just a few steps, you'll have a warm and inviting soup ready to enjoy with family or friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
To prepare the Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, begin by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Sprinkle with dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Add the egg noodles and continue cooking for an additional 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender. Stir well before serving.
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade or low-sodium chicken broth to manage the saltiness of the soup. You can adjust the herbs and spices according to your preference. If a creamier soup is desired, stir in a splash of cream or milk towards the end of cooking.
Remember that the noodles will absorb some broth as the soup sits, so you may need to add more broth or water when reheating leftovers. Serve your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup hot, accompanied by crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Steps
Let's get that delicious Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup going by starting with the chicken; just place those breasts right into your slow cooker.
Next, toss in your veggies and seasonings—think of it like sending them on a flavorful vacation—and let everything cook on the low setting while you kick back and relax.
When the chicken is done, shred it with forks, then add in the egg noodles for a final 30-minute soak in all that goodness, and voilà, you're practically a soup maestro!
Step 1. Place Chicken in Slow Cooker
Begin by taking the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and placing them directly into your slow cooker.
Don't worry, they'll be the stars of the show! Make sure the chicken breasts are nestled comfortably at the bottom, ready to soak up all the delicious flavors.
You might feel a bit like you're tucking them in for a nap, but it's all part of the magic. If you're feeling fancy, give them a little sprinkle of salt and pepper for an extra touch of seasoning.
Step 2. Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Start by adding the sliced carrots, celery, and diced onion into the slow cooker, letting them mingle with the chicken. These veggies are the backbone of your soup, adding flavor and a bit of crunch.
Next, toss in the minced garlic; it's like a secret weapon, turning up the flavor dial. Sprinkle in dried thyme and parsley, which give the soup its herby goodness.
Don't be shy with salt and pepper; they're your trusty sidekicks, ensuring everything tastes just right. If you accidentally sneeze while adding pepper, consider it a bonus!
Give everything a gentle stir to make sure those seasonings get to know each other. With this aromatic medley, you're setting the stage for a soul-warming soup.
Step 3. Cook Chicken on Low Setting
With your vegetables and seasonings beautifully mingling, it's time to focus on cooking the chicken to perfection.
Place the chicken breasts gently into the crockpot, like you're tucking them in for a cozy nap. Set the crockpot to the low setting for 6-8 hours—it's a long, slow journey, but worth every tender bite.
This gentle heat lets the chicken absorb all those marvelous flavors, turning it into melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness. Resist the urge to peek too often; the crockpot's like a magician that needs its stage time.
As the hours pass, your kitchen will fill with a savory aroma that might attract curious noses.
Step 4. Shred Chicken With Forks
Once the chicken has cooked to tender perfection, it's time to transform it into bite-sized pieces.
Grab two forks, and get ready for a little arm workout! Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board, and use the forks to gently pull the meat apart. This technique, called "shredding," is an easy way to create those perfect, juicy strands of chicken that make every spoonful delicious.
If the forks aren't cutting it, don't hesitate to use your hands—just make sure they're cool enough to handle! Shredding might feel like a mundane task, but it's oddly satisfying. Plus, it guarantees every bowl of soup has a bit of chicken in each bite.
Once shredded, return the chicken to the crockpot for its final flavor journey.
Step 5. Add Egg Noodles, Cook 30 Minutes
Now that your chicken is shredded and ready, it's time to add the egg noodles to the crockpot. Just toss them in, giving the soup a good stir to make sure those noodles are submerged and soaking up all that delicious broth.
Set your timer for 30 minutes, but don't wander too far—this is the home stretch! As the noodles cook, they'll become tender, absorbing the savory flavors of the soup.
Keep an eye on them, though. You don't want a mushy noodle situation on your hands. Remember, soup's a dish best served with the perfect noodle texture.
While you wait, imagine how comforting this bowl of goodness will be. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a meal; it's a comforting embrace in a bowl.
It's perfect for those days when you need a little extra warmth, or when you're just too tired to spend hours in the kitchen.
You've got all the goodness of tender chicken, hearty veggies, and comforting noodles melded into a delicious dish, without breaking a sweat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. They'll add extra flavor and tenderness to your soup. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs might take a bit longer to cook thoroughly. Enjoy!
How Can I Make the Soup Gluten-Free?
To make the soup gluten-free, swap the egg noodles for gluten-free noodles or rice. Confirm all broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free. Double-check labels to avoid hidden gluten ingredients. You'll enjoy a comforting, gluten-free meal!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?
You can switch up the veggies by adding or substituting zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans. Spinach or kale are great for extra greens. Feel free to experiment with your favorites to suit your taste!
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored in the Fridge?
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure you use an airtight container to keep everything fresh. When reheating, add a bit of broth or water to maintain the soup's consistency.
Can I Freeze the Soup for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for later use. Just let it cool first, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It'll keep well for up to three months, making future meals quick and easy.
