Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup on a chilly day. Made with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, flavorful broth, and egg noodles, this classic soup is a go-to for cold-weather comfort or when you’re feeling under the weather. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep, this easy chicken noodle soup is sure to become a family favorite. Read on for step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and variations to customize this recipe!

this Recipe

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What is Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a delicious, slow-cooked version of the classic chicken noodle soup, featuring tender chicken, savory broth, vegetables, and noodles. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become fall-apart tender and the broth to develop rich, deep flavors. It’s a healthy, comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of year, and it’s incredibly easy to make with minimal hands-on time.

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Ingredients List for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting and delicious chicken noodle soup:

• Chicken Breasts (or thighs) – 1 to 1½ pounds, boneless and skinless.
• Carrots – 3 large, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds.
• Celery – 3 stalks, sliced.
• Onion – 1 medium, diced.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced for added flavor.
• Chicken Broth – 8 cups, low-sodium preferred for better control over saltiness.
• Dried Thyme – 1 teaspoon, for added flavor.
• Dried Parsley – 1 teaspoon, or use fresh parsley for garnish.
• Bay Leaf – 1, for extra depth of flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
• Egg Noodles – 8 oz, uncooked (wide egg noodles work best, but any type of pasta can be used).
• Fresh Parsley – Optional, for garnish.

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Substitutions and Variations

This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences:

• Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles or omit the noodles entirely for a low-carb option. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach in place of noodles.
• Add Vegetables: For a more nutrient-dense soup, add vegetables like spinach, kale, green beans, or mushrooms.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill can add even more flavor to the broth.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

These variations allow you to adapt the recipe to your dietary needs or favorite ingredients while still delivering a delicious, comforting soup.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup step by step:

1. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot:
   • Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top. Season with thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the Broth:
   • Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the crockpot, making sure the chicken and vegetables are fully submerged.
3. Slow Cook the Soup:
   • Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or on High for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken:
   • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Discard the bay leaf. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
5. Add the Noodles:
   • About 20-30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked egg noodles to the crockpot. Stir to combine and cook on High until the noodles are tender (this usually takes 20-25 minutes, depending on the type of noodle).
6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

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How to Cook Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the main steps to make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup:

1. Add chicken, vegetables, broth, and seasonings to the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Shred the chicken and return it to the crockpot.
4. Add noodles and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until tender.
5. Adjust seasoning and serve hot with fresh parsley garnish.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding Noodles Too Early: Adding the noodles at the beginning of cooking can result in mushy, overcooked noodles. Be sure to add the noodles during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to keep them tender but firm.
• Overcooking the Chicken: While slow cooking generally results in tender chicken, leaving the chicken in for too long can cause it to become dry. Be sure to check it after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high.
• Under-Seasoning the Broth: Chicken broth can vary in saltiness, so be sure to taste the soup after cooking and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken noodle soup is simple and comforting, but with a few touches, you can make it look as appealing as it tastes.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup:

• Family-Style: Serve the soup directly from the crockpot, allowing everyone to ladle their own bowls.
• Individual Bowls: Ladle the soup into individual bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over each bowl for a pop of color and flavor.
• Add a Slice of Lemon: Serve with a slice of lemon on the side for a touch of acidity that brightens up the soup.
• Serve with Bread: Pair the soup with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

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Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb some of the broth, so add extra broth when reheating if needed.
• Freezing: Chicken noodle soup freezes well, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the noodles, as they can become mushy when thawed. Freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat and add fresh noodles.
• Leftovers: Store leftover soup in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking so it heats through, and proceed with the rest of the recipe.

What can I serve with chicken noodle soup?
Chicken noodle soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with grilled cheese for a classic combo.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs, but you will need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours. Be sure to check that the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.

Can I make this soup without noodles?
Absolutely! If you prefer a low-carb or paleo option, omit the noodles and add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or green beans.

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Conclusion:

This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, savory vegetables, and soft noodles in a flavorful broth. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or whipping up something to fight off a cold, this easy slow-cooker recipe is a guaranteed hit. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a delicious, warming bowl of soup ready to serve without any fuss. Enjoy every soothing, delicious spoonful!

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