Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe for Comforting …
There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a crockpot. This Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe is a true lifesaver for those busy days when you want to come home to a delicious and hearty meal without the fuss. Just toss in your ingredients, let the slow cooker do its magic, and soon enough, you’ll be greeted with the delightful aroma of homemade soup wafting through your kitchen.
This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners, chilly evenings, or whenever you need a little extra comfort. It’s not just easy; it’s also nutritious and satisfying, making it a favorite in my household. Plus, it’s an excellent way to bring everyone together at the dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Simple preparation: Just chop and toss everything into the crockpot without any complicated steps.
– Comforting flavors: Enjoy the classic taste of chicken noodle soup that warms your heart.
– Healthy ingredients: Packed with wholesome vegetables and lean chicken, it’s both nourishing and filling.
– Perfect for leftovers: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze for later.
– Family-friendly: A dish that pleases all ages, making it great for family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe.
Vegetables
– 1 cup celery (chopped finely)
– 1 cup onion (chopped finely)
– 1.5 cups carrots (sliced in small circles)
– 1/2 tablespoon garlic (minced)
Chicken and Seasonings
– 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 4 bay leaves
Broth and Noodles
– 8 cups chicken broth (low or no sodium)
– 3.5 cups egg noodles (8oz)
Variations
One of the best parts about cooking is making recipes your own! Here are some ideas to switch things up with your Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe.
– Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor while keeping it simple.
– Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas for extra nutrients and color.
– Change up the spices: Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh twist on the classic taste.
– Make it creamy: Stir in half-and-half or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a rich, creamy version.
How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables
Start by chopping your celery, onion, carrots, and mincing your garlic. Preparing these ingredients not only adds flavor but also ensures that each bite is packed with goodness. Add them directly to your crockpot as you go along.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasonings
Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts on top of the vegetables in your slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes if desired, and add bay leaves. Layering these seasonings helps infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks slowly throughout the day.
Step 3: Pour in Broth
Carefully pour in the low-sodium chicken broth until everything is submerged. This step is crucial as it creates that soothing broth we all love in chicken noodle soup. Not only does it cook the chicken beautifully but also melds all those wonderful flavors together.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover your crockpot and set it on low heat for about four hours. This long cooking time allows all those flavors to develop fully while keeping your chicken tender and juicy. Your kitchen will smell divine during this time!
Step 5: Shred Chicken and Add Noodles
After four hours, remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return shredded chicken back to the pot along with egg noodles. Stir everything together gently.
Step 6: Final Cooking
Cover again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until noodles are tender. This final step ensures that everything is heated through properly while allowing those noodles to soak up all that delicious broth.
And there you have it – an easy Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every warm spoonful!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Making a delicious chicken noodle soup in your Crock Pot can be a breeze with just a few simple tips. Follow these guidelines to enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, ensuring it turns out perfectly every time.
– Choose fresh vegetables: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the overall taste of your soup. Opt for organic or local veggies when possible for maximum flavor.
– Layer your ingredients wisely: Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the vegetables. This helps the chicken cook thoroughly while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
– Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices according to your preference. Adding more rosemary or thyme can give your soup a delightful depth.
– Use low-sodium broth: To control sodium levels and enhance taste, choose low or no-sodium chicken broth. You can always add salt later if needed.
– Add noodles at the right time: For perfectly cooked noodles, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This prevents them from becoming too soft or mushy.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Serving your chicken noodle soup is all about presentation and creating a comforting dining experience. Here are some ideas that will make your dish even more inviting.
Garnishes
– Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to each bowl.
– Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a hint of acidity.
Side Dishes
– Crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your flavorful broth.
– Salad: A light green salad pairs wonderfully with soup and adds a refreshing crunch.
– Grilled cheese sandwiches: A classic combo that complements the warmth of chicken noodle soup.
– Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies provide a healthy side option that balances the meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping this chicken noodle soup is an excellent way to save time throughout the week. Here’s how you can store leftovers effectively.
Storing Leftovers
– Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps maintain quality and prevents bacterial growth.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best flavor and freshness.
Freezing
– Divide leftover soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
– Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
– For stovetop reheating, place desired portions in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
– For microwave reheating, transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making chicken noodle soup in a Crock Pot:
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Just add an extra hour to your cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Can I substitute other types of noodles?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly since different noodles have varying cook times.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead for a hearty vegetarian option.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this comforting chicken noodle soup crock pot recipe as much as I do! It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need something warm and nourishing. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and make it your own—happy cooking!
Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by chopping your celery, onion, carrots, and mincing your garlic. Add them directly to your crockpot as you go along.
- Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables in your slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes if desired, and add bay leaves.
- Carefully pour in the low-sodium chicken broth until everything is submerged.
- Cover your crockpot and set it on low heat for about four hours.
- After four hours, remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return shredded chicken back to the pot along with egg noodles. Stir everything together gently.
- Cover again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until noodles are tender.
