Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a slow-cooked version of the traditional chicken noodle soup, made in a crockpot or slow cooker. This dish typically combines chicken, vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, along with seasonings like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Egg noodles are added at the end of the cooking process, creating a warm, comforting soup that is full of flavor. The slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld together, making the broth rich and savory. It’s an ideal dish for cold weather and busy days when you need a meal that requires minimal effort.
The beauty of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup lies in its hands-off cooking. Depending on your preferred setting, it can cook in 4-6 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low. The slow cooker ensures that the chicken becomes tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked. Once the soup has simmered, adding the noodles for the last 15-20 minutes gives the soup a satisfying finish. It’s a great choice for busy days since it requires little attention while cooking.
When making Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, the process is incredibly simple and rewarding. The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop beautifully, and there’s no need for constant monitoring. The chicken comes out so tender that it practically falls apart, making it easy to shred and add back to the soup. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory broth makes every bowl comforting. What stands out the most is the ability to make a hearty meal with minimal effort, making it a go-to for both busy weeknights and weekend meal prep.
Why You’ll Love It Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Easy to Make: Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for busy days. Simply add the ingredients to the slow cooker, and let it do the work. No constant stirring or monitoring is required.
- Healthy Comfort Food: This soup is not only warm and comforting but also full of healthy ingredients. The chicken provides lean protein, and the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals.
- Versatile Flavor: You can easily customize this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup to suit your taste. Adjust the seasoning or add extra veggies to make it uniquely yours!
Ingredient Notes for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs offer more flavor, while breasts are leaner. Both work great in a slow cooker.
- Onion: A medium onion adds a savory base to the soup. Dice it finely for even flavor distribution.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness and color. Peel and slice them into rounds or half-moons for a nice texture.
- Celery Stalks: Celery adds crunch and a mild, earthy flavor. Slice into small pieces to evenly distribute throughout the soup.
- Garlic: Mince or chop garlic cloves to enhance the aroma and depth of flavor in the broth.
- Chicken Broth: Chicken broth provides the liquid base for the soup. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Dried Thyme: This herb brings an earthy, slightly minty flavor. It pairs wonderfully with chicken and vegetables.
- Dried Rosemary: Rosemary has a bold, woodsy flavor. Use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Bay Leaves: Bay leaves add a subtle, aromatic flavor. Remove them before serving, as they’re not meant to be eaten.
- Salt and Pepper: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch and adjust as needed throughout the cooking process.
- Egg Noodles: These noodles are perfect for soup as they hold up well in the slow cooker. Add them near the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the garlic and onion. It adds richness and flavor to the soup.
- Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a light, fresh taste. Chop it finely and sprinkle it on top of the soup just before serving for extra flavor.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch
Making Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is simple, but there are ways to make it your own. Start with fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the taste. A touch of garlic and onions can also bring out more depth in the broth.
Consider adjusting the seasonings to your preference. Some people enjoy a pinch of cayenne for a little heat, while others prefer a dash of lemon juice for extra freshness. Experimenting with these small additions can make a big difference in your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup.
To make it even more filling, try adding extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn. These not only enhance the soup’s flavor but also add nutritional value. A handful of spinach or kale at the end of cooking can also provide some greens and color.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Variation
You can easily customize your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup with a few simple variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Different Noodles: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or rice noodles for a healthier or gluten-free option.
- Add Greens: Stir in spinach, kale, or other leafy greens in the last 10 minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
These variations will give you a chance to experiment with flavors and textures while keeping the soup just as comforting and satisfying.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas:
- With Bread: Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a roll for a complete meal.
- As a Side: Pair the soup with a fresh side salad for a light lunch or dinner option.
- Toppings: Add toppings like fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of crackers for crunch.
This soup is perfect for cozy dinners or a quick lunch, and the options for serving are endless.
Storage Options
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup stores well for later enjoyment. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow it to cool completely before storing.
- Freezing: To freeze, leave out the noodles or add them when reheating. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
- Reheating: When reheating, you may need to add a little more broth, as the noodles can absorb liquid. Heat the soup over low heat until it’s warmed through.
FAQs About Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
It typically takes 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat for the chicken to cook fully. Be sure to check the noodles after adding them in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the Crockpot. Just make sure to cook it longer if it’s frozen, and shred the chicken once it’s tender.
Can I add extra vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! You can add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes to the soup. Just add them early on to give them enough time to cook.
How do I store leftover Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, but keep in mind the noodles may soften when reheating.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Vegetables and Chicken. Start by chopping your carrots, celery, and onion. Mince your garlic and cut your chicken into chunks (or leave it whole if you plan to shred it later).
- Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot. Place the chicken, diced vegetables, garlic, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and chicken broth in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Set the Crockpot. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the Chicken. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the crockpot. Shred it with two forks and return it to the pot.
- Add Noodles. Stir in the egg noodles (or your preferred pasta) and cook for another 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender.
- Serve. Once the noodles are cooked, give the soup a final stir. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
