Comfort in a Bowl: Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Warm up with my simple and delicious slow cooker chicken noodle soup! The perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or when feeling under the weather.

The Warm Embrace of Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Oh my gosh, have you ever had one of those days where you just want to curl up on the couch and enjoy something warm and comforting? for me, that dish is definitely slow cooker chicken noodle soup .

It's like a cozy hug in a bowl, filled with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and noodles that just scream comfort.

Seriously, who wouldn’t want that?

A Taste of Tradition

The beauty of this soup isn’t just in the flavors; it’s steeped in history, too. originally rooted in british homes, chicken noodle soup has been a staple for generations.

It’s what you whip up when someone’s feeling under the weather or when winter rolls in, and trust me, it hits the spot!

Don’t worry if you’re not a masterchef, either. this recipe is easy-peasy . you’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping, and then just let your trusty slow cooker do the rest.

In under 8 hours, you'll have a steaming bowl of goodness ready to share. i mean, come on—what’s better than that? you’ll end up with about 6 hearty servings, perfect for a cozy dinner or for prepping the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

Now, let’s chat about some benefits, shall we? first off, this dish brings real health goodness to the table. with lean chicken, fresh veggies, and wholesome noodles , it’s a bowl of nutrition that warms your heart and soul.

Plus, it’s ideal for those chilly nights when you just want to chill in front of netflix. honestly, my friends and i always make it for a movie marathon—it’s the ultimate comfort food.

What sets this crockpot chicken noodle soup apart? well, it's simple, but it's also deeply nourishing. the hours of slow cooking mean the flavors meld together beautifully.

The longer, the better! so, pour yourself a cup of tea, grab a blanket, and get ready for the magic that happens in that soup crock pot .

So, are you ready to dive into this delightful travel back to comfort? because next up, i'm breaking down how to whip up this delicious slow cooker chicken noodle soup .

Trust me, you won't want to miss it!

Ingredients & Equipment for Comfort in a Bowl: Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Main Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup , the ingredients play a major role. You want quality, right? Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (go for organic if you can)
• 1 cup (150 g) carrots, sliced (fresh is best!)
• 1 cup (150 g) celery, sliced (don’t skimp on those crunchies)
• 1 cup (150 g) onion, diced (sweet onions are my go-to)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (you can never have too much garlic!)
• 8 cups (1.9 L) low-sodium chicken broth (don’t get the salty stuff)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (that earthy flavor is a must)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (adds that pop of color)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked, if you can)
• Salt to taste (I usually go light and adjust later)
• 2 cups (150 g) egg noodles, uncooked (or any noodle you love)
• 2 tablespoons (30 mL) lemon juice (for a zesty finish)

Seasoning Notes

Seasoning is where the magic happens! Here’s how to keep your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup super tasty:

• Essential Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley do wonders, but feel free to mix it up.
• Flavor Enhancers: Splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens it up.
• Quick Substitutions: Don’t have thyme? Italian seasoning works like a charm.

Equipment Needed

No need to overcomplicate things here. For this easy-peasy Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot recipe, just grab:

• A trusty slow cooker (mine's a workhorse)
• Chopping board and a sharp knife (safety first, friends!)
• Measuring cups and spoons (don’t wing it on the broth)
• A wooden spoon for the stirring magic (no plastic spoons, though—trust me).

As you get cozy in the kitchen making this crock pot soups wonder, remember: the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting! you literally just layer your ingredients and let it do its thing.

Just thinking about it makes me nostalgic for those chilly nights and more times with my family. my mom would always make this soup when someone was feeling under the weather or if it just got too cold outside.

It felt like home with every spoonful!

Trust me, once you get this soup bubbling, you’ll be hooked. So, ready to dive into that slow cooker and whip up some comfort food? Get your apron on and enjoy each moment!

Comfort Food Preparation: Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a great bowl of slow cooker chicken noodle soup . instantly, i think of chilly evenings wrapped in blankets.

And honestly, who doesn’t want a meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum warmth? let’s dive right into how to whip up some magic in your own kitchen!

Prep Steps

First off, mise en place is key! chop up your carrots, celery, and onion ahead of time. trust me, your future self will thank you when you don’t have to scramble at the last minute.

Place your chicken (1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless breasts) ready next to your broth.

And here’s a time-saving tip: use a cutting board and a sharp knife. it makes a world of difference in your prep time and keeps you safe from those little slips and cuts that can happen if you’re not careful.

Step-by-Step Process

Now, let’s get into the juicy details of this recipe.

1. Layer Your Ingredients : Toss those chicken breasts at the bottom of the soup crock pot . It helps them cook evenly.
2. Veggie Party Time : Layer your diced onions, sliced carrots, and celery on top. Let’s face it, colorful veggies make for a prettier soup—and who doesn’t love that?
3. Season It Up : Sprinkle thyme, parsley, and black pepper over your masterpiece. Really get in there, season it like you mean it !
4. Add the Broth : Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth (low-sodium is my go-to) and cover that bad boy up.
5. Set to Cook : Cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 4- 5 hours . Just let the magic happen!
6. Shred the Chicken : When time's up, shred the chicken with two forks. It’s your moment to shine!
7. Noodle Time : Finally, stir in 2 cups of uncooked egg noodles and cook for an additional 20- 30 minutes on high until they’re tender.

Pro Tips

Okay, pro time! If you’re in a rush, use leftover rotisserie chicken. Add it toward the end, and voilà! Instant flavor upgrade.

Avoid the common mistake of skipping the seasoning—it makes a huge difference! also, if you have leftovers, don’t fret! this soup freezes like a champ.

Just portion it out, and you’ll have cozy meals ready to go during your busy week.

Wrapping It Up

And there you have it, folks! this crockpot chicken noodle soup is not just a dish; it’s a big ol’ hug in a bowl.

With tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vibrant veggies, it’s perfect for rainy days or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather.

Definitely give it a shot! i can almost taste it now! enjoy every spoonful!

Recipe Notes: Comfort in a Bowl with Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving Suggestions

Alright, let’s get into the fun part— plating and presentations . you know that first bowl of soup you see at a cozy diner? try to capture that vibe! ladle that slow cooker chicken noodle soup into a deep bowl and sprinkle some fresh herbs on top.

A little parsley works wonders for color and flavor.

Now, for sides—think crusty bread. oh my gosh, there's just something about dunking a piece of warm, crispy bread into that savory broth.

And if you want to take it up a notch, how about pairing it with a light salad? try a simple bite of mixed greens drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of your crockpot chicken noodle soup .

You could even enjoy a warm herbal tea on the side; like a comforting duo!

Storage Tips

Leftovers? yes, please! this soup loves to hang out in the fridge. just make sure to cool it completely before you pop it in an airtight container.

You can refrigerate it for about 3-4 days .

Got extra soup? freeze it! portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. it’ll stay good for about 2-3 months . when you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. you know how it is—no one wants burnt soup!

Variations

Let’s shake things up a bit! if you're looking for dietary adaptations , you could easily make this soup gluten-free by swapping out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta.

It's a total game-changer!

Also, if it’s that time of year when veggies are bursting with color, swap out carrots for zucchini or add in some fresh spinach at the end for a seasonal vibe.

Seriously, it’s like giving your soup a fresh wardrobe.

Nutrition Basics

Now, let's chat about nutrition. this slow cooker chicken noodle soup is not just comforting, it’s packed with good stuff! each bowl has about 340 calories , with 30 grams of protein to keep you feeling full.

The veggies add fiber and essential vitamins, making it a wholesome choice.

The best part? It warms your belly and can boost your mood. Honestly, what more could you ask for?

Conclusion

So, there you have it! a fabulous breakdown of everything you need to know about our beloved crockpot chicken noodle soup .

Whether you’re slurping it up on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, this soup is pure gold.

So grab your soup crock pot , get cookin’, and enjoy every spoonful—trust me, you won't regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken in my slow cooker chicken noodle soup?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken, but be sure to add about an hour to your cooking time. Just make sure it’s cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.

What if I don’t have egg noodles for my slow cooker chicken noodle soup?

No worries! You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta you have on hand or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for the type of pasta or rice you choose.

How should I store leftover slow cooker chicken noodle soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It also freezes beautifully, so consider portioning it out for quick meals during the week!

Can I add more vegetables to my soup?

Definitely! This is a great recipe to use up any veggies you have lying around. Peas, green beans, or even leafy greens like spinach can be great additions—just toss them in towards the end of cooking.

What are some variations I can try with this soup?

You can switch up the herbs, add a splash of white wine for richness, or even include a touch of cream for a more decadent version. A bit of lemon juice can brighten the flavors nicely too!

Is slow cooker chicken noodle soup healthy?

This soup is quite healthy! It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken and filled with nutritious veggies. To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium broth and control the salt you add as well.

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