Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is the comfort food you’ve been searching for. This recipe brings together simple ingredients and the magic of slow cooking to create a nourishing bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends, you’ll appreciate how effortlessly this dish comes together, allowing you to enjoy a delightful meal with minimal hassle.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
There’s something uniquely satisfying about the aroma of homemade soup filling your home. This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is not just easy to prepare; it’s also versatile and comforting. Whether you’re coming home from a long day or simply want a quick, healthy meal, this recipe hits the spot. The tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty egg noodles blend to create a delicious dish that everyone in your family will love. Plus, the slow cooker takes care of most of the cooking, letting you focus on what really matters—enjoying a hearty meal.
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
To whip up a pot of this tasty soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 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
These ingredients come together harmoniously, creating a soup that is rich in flavor and nutrition. Each component adds its charm, making this dish a favorite for many.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Directions
Making this soup is incredibly straightforward. First, gather your ingredients and take out your slow cooker. Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. This forms the hearty base of your soup.
Next, add the chicken broth to the cooker. The broth is the soul of your soup, providing flavor and warmth. Then, toss in the chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion. Each of these vegetables brings its own unique taste and texture, contributing to the overall richness of the soup.
Next, add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried parsley. These spices enhance the soup’s complexity, giving it that homemade taste we all crave. After incorporating the spices, season your mixture with salt and pepper according to your preference.
Now it’s time to stir everything together. Make sure the chicken is nestled in among the vegetables and spices so that it can absorb all those flavors as it cooks.
After mixing, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. If you choose the low setting, your chicken and veggies will slowly infuse the broth with flavor. If you’re short on time, the high setting will have you enjoying a bowl in just a few hours.
About 30 minutes before your cooking time is up, it’s time to add the egg noodles. These noodles will cook perfectly in the rich broth, soaking up its flavors. Stir them into the soup, and cover the cooker again to allow the noodles to soften.
Once your cooking time is done, the next step is to shred the chicken. Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces. After shredding, return the chicken back into the soup and give it a good stir to combine.
Your Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is now ready to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy a cozy meal. Whether you enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or on its own, this dish promises satisfaction.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Serving your Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup can be as simple or as extravagant as you like. To retain the comforting vibe, use wide, shallow bowls to present your soup. This way, everyone can see the vibrant colors of the carrots, celery, and noodles.
You might consider pairing the soup with a side of crusty bread. A nice roll or a slice of artisan bread complements the meal perfectly, allowing you to soak up every bit of delicious broth. If you want to add a bit more depth to your meal, consider a green salad on the side. A fresh salad can offer crispness that balances the warmth of the soup.
To elevate your serving presentation, sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme over the top of each bowl. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma, inviting everyone to dig in. Serve it hot, and let everyone enjoy the hearty flavors it has to offer.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
To make the best Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup possible, keep these expert tips in mind. First, consider using homemade chicken broth if you have it. Homemade broth is richer in flavor and nutrition compared to store-bought versions.
Always remember to season your soup to your taste. Salt and pepper are essential, but don’t hesitate to adjust the herbs too. If you prefer a stronger flavor, adding extra thyme or parsley can really make a difference.
For chicken, you can opt for thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and can contribute to an even richer flavor. If you do choose thighs, consider cooking them for slightly less time to prevent them from becoming too soft.
You should also try to avoid adding the egg noodles too early. Adding them about half an hour before serving ensures that they remain firm and don’t turn mushy in the broth.
Lastly, if you’re cooking on low in the slow cooker, keep in mind that the soup can continue to develop flavor if you’re not ready to eat right away. Just avoid letting it sit too long, or the noodles may overcook.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Storing your Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is easy and convenient. First, allow the soup to cool completely before you put it away. This helps prevent condensation, which could lead to unwanted moisture in the container.
Once cooled, transfer the soup into an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well, as long as they are properly sealed. If you prefer to keep things simple, you can also use resealable plastic bags. Just make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn if you’re freezing leftovers.
Store the soup in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within the next three to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. This soup freezes beautifully, and you can enjoy it later on those days when you’re too busy to cook.
When you’re ready to reheat your soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or warm it directly on the stovetop. Stir well while reheating, and consider adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
Variation of Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
There are countless ways to make this Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup your own! You can add different vegetables for variety. Try including peas, corn, or even spinach to give your soup an extra boost of flavor and nutrients.
If you prefer a spicier twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This will elevate the dish and give it a unique kick that can surprise your taste buds.
For an herbaceous touch, experiment with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or even fresh basil. Each herb can transform the base flavor into something entirely new, giving you the chance to create several variations of this same dish.
And for those who are looking for a meatless option, feel free to substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils. These ingredients will add protein and create a filling vegetarian soup that retains the comfort of traditional chicken noodle soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup?
The best way to cook this soup is to use a slow cooker on a low setting for 6 to 7 hours. This allows all the flavors to develop and ensures tender chicken. If you’re short on time, you can use the high setting, which takes 3 to 4 hours.
Can I use frozen chicken in my Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure that you account for longer cooking time and avoid leaving the soup on low for too long to ensure safe cooking temperatures.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is great for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for later enjoyment.
What is the best way to store leftover soup?
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it refrigerated for three to four days or freeze it for several months. For reheating, you can thaw in the refrigerator or on the stovetop.
Can I make this soup in advance and freeze it?
Yes, you can prepare this soup in advance and freeze it. It’s a wonderful option for busy days. Just make sure to allow it to cool first and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw and reheat.
This delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is a meal that is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Enjoy each bowl, knowing that you have created something truly special!
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth Homemade broth is recommended for better flavor.
- 2 cups egg noodles Add 30 minutes before the cooking time is up.
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather your ingredients and take out your slow cooker.
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth to the cooker.
- Toss in the chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion.
- Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir everything together, making sure the chicken is nestled among the vegetables.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, add the egg noodles.
Final Steps
- Once cooking time is done, remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken back into the soup and stir to combine.
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