There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup to nurture the soul, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This recipe combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked egg noodles to create a comforting dish that skillfully encapsulates home-cooked goodness. The beauty of this slow cooker chicken noodle soup is that you can set it up, let it simmer, and have a wholesome meal ready for you with minimal fuss.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This slow cooker chicken noodle soup stands out for several reasons. First, it is incredibly convenient; just toss your ingredients into the pot, set the timer, and go about your day. When you return, the delightful aroma of homemade soup welcomes you. Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or even meal prep for the week ahead. Besides, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables; carrots, celery, and onions blend easily into the rich broth while adding their nutritional benefits. Finally, this recipe allows for creativity—feel free to customize it according to your preferences. Whether you want to add extra spices or more veggies, the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
To create this hearty soup, gather the following ingredients for an irresistible bowl of comfort:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Directions
Making this slow cooker chicken noodle soup is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure to lay them flat to allow the broth and flavors to circulate effectively around the meat. Next, pour in the chicken broth, which will form the base of your soup and infuse the chicken with plenty of flavor.
Now, it’s time to add the chopped vegetables. Toss in your chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion over the chicken. These veggies not only enhance the flavor but also add a nice texture to your soup. Then, sprinkle in the minced garlic along with the dried thyme and parsley. These herbs will elevate the taste of your dish, bringing that comforting aromatic essence you love. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Once all the ingredients are in the slow cooker, stir them gently to ensure even distribution. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This long, slow cooking time allows the chicken to become tender and permits the flavors to meld beautifully.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir them into the soup, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth. This will allow the noodles to cook perfectly—soft but not mushy. Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken in the pot. This step takes only a moment but makes the soup feel hearty and substantial as the chicken blends with the broth. Give everything a final stir, and your delicious slow cooker chicken noodle soup is ready to be served hot in bowls, providing warmth and comfort that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Serving this slow cooker chicken noodle soup is as simple as ladling it into bowls. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so aim to serve it right after preparing it. However, you can keep it warm in the slow cooker if you have guests arriving at different times.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a twist of black pepper on top before serving. You can also offer some crusty bread or rolls on the side for dipping, making it a complete and satisfying meal. If you like, serve your soup with a green salad, adding freshness and crunch to your meal. Remember that this soup stores wonderfully, so it’s perfect for lunch the next day!
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
- Choose Quality Chicken: The better the chicken you use, the richer the flavor of your broth will be. Look for free-range or organic chicken for optimal taste.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute with other vegetables like peas or corn to adjust the recipe to your personal taste.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) during the last half hour of cooking.
- Storage: When storing, make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers; this will preserve its freshness.
- Proper Seasoning: Tasting your soup before serving is crucial. This helps in adjusting the salt and spices to achieve your desired flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This soup is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch and store it in the fridge or freezer.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Storing your slow cooker chicken noodle soup is easy, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavor later. If you have leftovers, wait until the soup cools to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the soup into airtight containers. You can keep the soup in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup—just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
When you want to reheat the soup, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight if frozen, and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot. Remember, the noodles may absorb some broth during storage, so you might need to add a little extra chicken broth when reheating to restore the desired consistency.
Variation of Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
While the classic chicken noodle soup is delightful as it is, there are various ways to give it a twist. Here are some creative variations that you might enjoy:
- Creamy Version: Create a creamy chicken noodle soup by stirring in some heavy cream or half-and-half in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds a rich, velvety texture.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy spiciness, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat to your soup.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by using fresh herbs like dill or cilantro instead of dried thyme and parsley.
- Asian Twist: Incorporate soy sauce, ginger, and bok choy for an Asian-inspired chicken noodle soup. Serve with a squeeze of lime for brightness.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or other plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead. This option is still hearty and filling but caters to a vegetarian diet.
- Add Rice: Instead of egg noodles, consider using rice or quinoa for a different texture and taste. This variation remains gluten-free while providing the same comfort.
FAQ
What can I substitute for egg noodles in chicken noodle soup?
You can use rice, whole grain noodles, or gluten-free pasta as alternatives to egg noodles. Each option brings its flavor while keeping the dish hearty.
Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it a day in advance and store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later use.
How long can I keep leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If needed, freeze the soup in airtight containers for longer preservation.
Can I add more vegetables to my soup?
Yes! Feel free to add additional vegetables like green beans, peas, or even bell peppers to diversify the flavor and nutritional value.
Is Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup healthy?
This soup can be a healthy choice, especially if made with lean chicken and packed with a variety of vegetables. You can control the sodium levels by using low-sodium broth and adjusting seasonings accordingly.
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Choose high-quality chicken for better flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
- 2 cups egg noodles Add 30 minutes before serving.
Vegetables
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust to your preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth over the chicken.
- Add the chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle in the minced garlic, thyme, and parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are mixed.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and set to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles and ensure they are submerged in the broth.
- Once cooking is completed, use two forks to shred the chicken in the pot.
- Stir everything together before serving.
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