Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup – Easy & Delicious!
Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, homemade chicken noodle soup. This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is not only delicious and soothing but also incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re dealing with a busy day or want something cozy for a chilly evening, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor! Here’s why it’s a hit:
- Set it and forget it: Just add everything to your slow cooker, and let it do the work.
- Healthy and hearty: Packed with protein, veggies, and comforting noodles.
- Perfect for meal prep: This soup is ideal for making ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create a flavor-packed bowl of chicken noodle soup:
- 1 ½ lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 cups of water
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp of dried thyme
- 1 tsp of dried rosemary
- 1 tsp of dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups of egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Pro Tip: For even more flavor, add a couple of bay leaves while cooking. They’ll bring out a rich, earthy taste in the broth!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Before you begin, chop up the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic for that fresh aromatic flavor.
2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add in the chopped vegetables, garlic, thyme, rosemary, parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and water.
Pro Tip: For a richer broth, substitute some of the water with extra chicken broth.
3. Set the Cooker
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
5. Add the Noodles
Stir in the egg noodles and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Pro Tip: If you’re making this soup to freeze, skip adding the noodles until you reheat it. This will keep them from getting mushy.
6. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy the warmth and comfort in every bite!
Tips for Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in individual containers for up to 3 months. Remember to leave out the noodles if freezing.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Variations to Try
This soup is versatile! Here are some ideas to customize it:
- Add more veggies like diced potatoes or zucchini for extra heartiness.
- Try different noodles like rotini, ditalini, or even gluten-free noodles.
- Add a touch of lemon for a refreshing zing that complements the savory flavors.
Why Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is Perfect for Any Day
This easy and delicious soup is a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for those days when you want a home-cooked meal without standing by the stove. Try it, and experience the flavors of a classic chicken noodle soup, made even easier!
Enjoy!
