As the chilly winds blow through the trees, I often find myself craving the warmth and comfort of a homemade meal. That’s when I turn to my beloved Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, a dish that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl. Picture this: tender pieces of chicken mingling with hearty carrots and crunchy celery, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth, while egg noodles soak up every drop of flavor.
This recipe isn’t just about satisfying hunger—it’s about creating a nurturing experience for both myself and those I love. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you can set it and forget it, transforming an ordinary day into something special. Whether you’re recovering from a long day at work or seeking a family-friendly meal to enjoy together, this comforting soup delivers on all fronts. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful dish that promises to warm both your kitchen and your heart.
Why is Crock-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup a Must-Try?
Ultimate Comfort: This soup is a warm hug in a bowl, especially perfect for chilly nights.
Effortless Cooking: With just a few ingredients and your slow cooker, you can set it and forget it!
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe with different veggies or pasta types for a unique spin.
Family-Friendly: Everyone will love it, making it an easy choice for weeknight dinners.
Make Ahead: Great for batch cooking, it keeps well in the fridge or freezer, so you can always have a comforting meal waiting.
Crock-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – A lean protein that keeps the soup rich and hearty.
- Carrots – They add sweetness and vibrant color; remember to slice them evenly for best cooking.
- Yellow Onion – Enhances the broth with depth; shallots can also be used for milder flavor.
- Celery – Adds freshness and crunch; green bell pepper is a good alternative if you’re looking for variety.
- Minced Garlic – Boosts the flavor nicely; fresh is ideal, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for balancing flavors; swap for sea salt if that’s what you have.
- Black Pepper – Brings a gentle heat; freshly cracked black pepper gives the best taste.
- Fresh Thyme/Rosemary – Imparts aromatic notes; if not available, use dried herbs at one-third the amount.
- Dried Bay Leaves – Introduce a subtle complexity; just remember to remove them before serving.
- Unsalted Chicken Stock/Broth – The heart of your soup for control over sodium levels; homemade is best, but quality store-bought works too.
For the Noodles
- Wide Egg Noodles – They give the soup a classic texture; feel free to substitute with short pasta, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
For Garnish
- Chopped Parsley – Adds color and a fresh finish; herbs like cilantro or chives can also be delightful alternatives.
Now that you have all the ingredients for your Crock-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, you’re well on your way to creating a cozy meal that everyone will adore!
How to Make Crock-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
-
Add Ingredients: In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the boneless skinless chicken breasts, carrots, yellow onion, celery, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Stir everything gently.
-
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it on high for 3.5 hours or low for 5.5 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Enjoy the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen!
-
Shred Chicken: After the cooking time, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm. Shred the chicken using two forks just before serving, letting those delicious juices soak in.
-
Cook Noodles: Stir in the wide egg noodles and cook on high for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re tender and inviting. Keep an eye on them for that perfect, soft texture!
-
Warm Chicken: Return the shredded chicken to the pot, gently stir to combine, and warm everything together for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
-
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of brightness.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a complete and cozy meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crock-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
-
Perfect Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 160°F. This prevents overcooking and keeps it juicy!
-
Noodle Timing: Add the noodles towards the end of cooking to avoid mushy pasta. They should cook in their own right without becoming mushy.
-
Ingredient Prep: Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking. This ensures every bite is full of flavor and texture.
-
Broth Balance: Use low-sodium chicken stock for better control of salt levels. You can always adjust seasoning later!
-
Storage Savvy: Cool and store leftovers in airtight containers. This Crock-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
How to Store and Freeze Crock-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Fridge: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s fully cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Lay flat to save space and ensure even freezing.
- Thawing: To enjoy frozen soup, defrost overnight in the refrigerator for best results. This keeps the flavors and texture intact.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth to restore consistency if needed.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop vegetables like carrots and celery and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to save time on busy nights. Additionally, you can cook the chicken and broth mix ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup in the slow cooker, stir in the egg noodles, and cook on high for 25-30 minutes until tender. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Cozy up your meal with delightful pairings that complement the warmth of this hearty soup.
-
Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch to your warm bowl of soup, soaking up every delicious drop.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: With their buttery goodness and a hint of garlic, these pairs add flavor and a fun twist to your meal.
-
Fresh Salad: A mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, balancing the meal beautifully.
-
Roasted Vegetables: The earthy sweetness of roasted carrots and brussels sprouts offers a nice texture and flavor combination to the comforting soup.
-
Cheesy Biscuits: Flaky, cheesy biscuits are a delightful addition, providing a rich, buttery flavor that elevates your dining experience.
As you serve your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, each pairing not only enhances the meal but also adds that extra touch of comfort, creating a dining experience that brings loved ones together. Enjoy!
Crock-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this comforting soup to suit your taste and dietary needs!
-
Turkey Swap: Use cooked, shredded turkey instead of chicken for a delicious post-holiday twist. It’s a delightful way to repurpose leftovers.
-
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate peas, spinach, or green beans for extra nutrition and a pop of color. Adding these at the end preserves their freshness and vibrant flavor.
-
Gluten-Free: Replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta for a suitable option that maintains flavor and texture. Cook the pasta separately to ensure it remains al dente before adding to the soup.
-
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving for an extra luscious and savory finish. It makes each bowl feel even more indulgent!
-
Herb Variations: Try swapping thyme and rosemary for fresh basil or dill for a refreshing, herbal twist. These herbs can brighten the broth and enhance the overall flavor profile.
-
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat that wakes up the flavors beautifully. A little spice can turn this comforting dish into something exciting!
-
Citrus Splash: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice just before serving gives this soup a refreshing zing. It balances well with the savory notes and brightens the overall dish.
-
Cheesy Finish: Top each bowl with grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese for a rich flavor boost that melts pleasantly into the warm broth. It transforms your soup into a cheesy delight!
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select fresh vegetables for my soup?
Absolutely! When choosing vegetables, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. For carrots, avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles; they should feel crisp. Celery should be bright green with sturdy stalks. If using onions, opt for those that are firm and heavy for their size—a good indicator of freshness.
How should I store leftovers of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Very simple! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to keep it covered to maintain moisture and flavor. If you want to enjoy it later, proceed to freeze it!
Advertisement
Can I freeze my Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup? If so, how?
Absolutely, you can! For freezing, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Then, pour it into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top since liquids expand when frozen. Lay the bags flat in the freezer, and it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
What is the best way to reheat frozen soup?
To reheat frozen Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can gently heat it on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its consistency. Heat until it’s steaming hot, and it’s ready to serve!
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup, especially for allergies?
Yes, it’s always wise to check! If you’re preparing this soup for someone with dietary restrictions, ensure that the broth is gluten-free if they have a gluten allergy. Also, double-check the noodle packaging—some egg noodles may contain gluten. This recipe is quite versatile, so you can swap out the egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta option. Always read labels to ensure safety.
Super Easy Crock-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the boneless skinless chicken breasts, carrots, yellow onion, celery, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Stir everything gently.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on high for 3.5 hours or low for 5.5 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- After the cooking time, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm. Shred the chicken using two forks just before serving.
- Stir in the wide egg noodles and cook on high for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re tender and inviting.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot, gently stir to combine, and warm everything together for an additional 5 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with fresh chopped parsley.