There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup on a chilly day. The rich aroma of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and savory broth simmering away is like a hug for your senses. This recipe is not only simple to make but also delivers the perfect balance of flavors with minimal effort.
I first created this dish when my kids were under the weather, and it’s been a family favorite ever since. The ease of throwing everything into the slow cooker and coming back hours later to a perfectly cooked soup is a lifesaver for busy weeks.
Let’s dive into why this recipe will become a staple in your home too!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Get ready to fall in love with a soup that does all the work for you! This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is everything you need for a cozy, stress-free meal.
First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. You just toss everything into the crockpot, and the magic happens while you go about your day. It’s a true “set it and forget it” recipe.
It’s also wonderfully nutritious. Packed with lean protein from the chicken, vitamins from the vegetables, and the comforting carbs of egg noodles, it’s a well-rounded meal the whole family will enjoy.
Need something that’s budget-friendly? This recipe is perfect for using pantry staples and affordable ingredients. You likely already have most of what you need on hand.
Lastly, this soup is a perfect crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a picky eater or someone under the weather, this gentle yet flavorful dish fits the bill every time.
Ready to get started? Let’s talk ingredients!
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this soup lies in its simple and wholesome ingredients, each bringing its own touch of flavor and comfort.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly here. They cook until tender and can be shredded easily with a fork. Thighs add a little more richness, while breasts keep it lighter.
- Vegetables: A classic mirepoix of diced carrots, celery, and onions forms the aromatic base of the soup. These veggies add sweetness and depth to the broth.
- Broth: High-quality chicken broth or stock is essential for the best flavor. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade broth is a game-changer!
- Herbs: Dried thyme, parsley, and a bay leaf infuse the soup with earthy, comforting notes. Fresh herbs can be used for an extra burst of flavor.
- Egg Noodles: These are the quintessential soup noodles. They cook quickly and soak up the delicious broth, making every bite comforting.
- Special Equipment: All you need is a good slow cooker or crockpot and a ladle for serving.
How to Make This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Creating this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup couldn’t be simpler. Let’s walk through the process step by step.
- Prep the Ingredients
Begin by chopping the carrots, celery, and onions into small, uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and a perfect bite in every spoonful. Mince the garlic if using fresh. - Assemble in the Crockpot
Add the chicken breasts, chopped vegetables, minced garlic, and dried herbs to the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring everything is covered. Toss in a bay leaf for extra flavor. - Cook Low and Slow
Set your crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the chicken becomes tender, and the vegetables soften beautifully. - Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. - Add the Noodles
About 20-30 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles. Let them cook in the hot broth until tender. - Taste and Adjust
Give the soup a final taste test. Add salt and pepper as needed. For a hint of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice is a delightful addition.
Serve your soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate cozy meal.
Storage Options
One of the best things about this soup is how well it stores! Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup (without noodles) in individual portions for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked noodles after reheating for the best texture.
- Reheating: Gently warm the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
Variations and Substitutions
This soup is incredibly versatile, allowing for endless variations to suit your tastes or dietary needs:
- Low-Carb Option: Swap the egg noodles for zucchini noodles or riced cauliflower.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding white beans or chickpeas for protein.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Different Grains: Substitute noodles with rice, quinoa, or even barley for a heartier take.
- Add Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale just before serving for added nutrition.
Experiment with these ideas and make the recipe truly your own!
There you have it—your ultimate guide to the perfect Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup. Whether you're looking for comfort on a rainy day or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. So grab your crockpot, and let the cozy vibes begin!
PrintCrockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a hearty, homemade soup. Made with chicken, fresh vegetables, and egg noodles, it's a comforting meal for any season.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- 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, diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Add chicken breasts, chicken broth, water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the crockpot.
- Add egg noodles and olive oil to the soup and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
- Discard bay leaf, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- You can substitute egg noodles with gluten-free or whole-grain noodles.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
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