Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Jump to RecipeAre you ready to warm up your evenings with a comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup? This delightful recipe is not just a simple meal; it's a heartwarming dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and hearty egg noodles, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow-cooker soup lets you throw everything in and forget about it while it cooks to a deliciously rich flavor. Ideal for chilly days, this chicken noodle soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome option for the whole family. Whether you're feeling under the weather or just craving a cozy meal, this recipe will deliver warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Plus, it's naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted to fit your dietary preferences. So, grab your crockpot and let’s dive into this soul-soothing Chicken Noodle Soup recipe!
Ingredients
boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For a more flavorful soup, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead, as they tend to be juicier. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time; just shred it and add it at the end.
carrots, sliced
Use fresh carrots for the best texture and flavor. If you want a sweeter note, try adding some sweet potatoes or parsnips instead.
celery stalks, chopped
Make sure to wash the celery thoroughly to remove any dirt. If you don't have celery, fennel can be a good substitute for a slightly different flavor profile.
onion, diced
For a sweeter flavor, consider using yellow or sweet onions. If you prefer a sharper taste, red onions can be used instead.
garlic cloves, minced
Fresh garlic will give the best flavor, but if you're out, you can use garlic powder as a substitute (1/8 teaspoon per clove). Roasting the garlic before adding it can also enhance the flavor.
chicken broth
Homemade broth is the best option for flavor, but store-bought broth works well too. Low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level. If you're vegetarian, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute.
egg noodles
If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Add the noodles at the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
dried thyme
Thyme pairs well with many herbs, so consider combining it with parsley or rosemary for a more complex flavor. If you have fresh thyme, use about three times the amount.
salt
Always taste before adding salt, especially if you're using broth that may already contain sodium. You can also use sea salt or kosher salt for a different flavor.
black pepper
Freshly cracked black pepper adds a more robust flavor than pre-ground. For a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes.
parsley, chopped (optional)
Fresh parsley adds a nice brightness to the soup; however, if you don't have it, cilantro or chives can be good alternatives. For an added depth of flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients listed. Ensure your chicken is thawed if previously frozen. Wash and slice the carrots, chop the celery, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.Step 2: Layer the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the broth and vegetables as it cooks.Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken. This layering helps the veggies cook evenly and infuse their flavors into the broth.Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Carefully pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are submerged. This step is crucial for a flavorful soup base.Step 5: Season the Soup
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning later, so start with a little and increase as needed.Step 6: Cooking Process
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Check the chicken for doneness; it should be tender and easily shredded.Step 7: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup.Step 8: Add Egg Noodles
Stir in the egg noodles into the broth. Turn the crockpot to high and cook for another 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. This step is essential to ensure the noodles absorb the soup flavors.Step 9: Final Seasoning and Serving
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I don't have boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
You can use bone-in chicken pieces or even rotisserie chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using bone-in pieces, as they may require a bit longer to cook through.
How do I properly chop vegetables like carrots and celery?
Start by washing and peeling the carrots if desired. Cut them into even pieces, about 1/4 inch thick for even cooking. For celery, cut off the ends, and slice it into similar-sized pieces as the carrots.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, or make your own using water and seasoning. Just keep in mind that it might alter the flavor slightly.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a thermometer, the chicken should be no longer pink in the center and should shred easily.
What do I do if I over-season my soup?
If it's too salty or spicy, you can add more broth or water to dilute it. Adding a few more vegetables or a splash of cream can also help balance the flavors.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, corn, or green beans. Just make sure to chop them into small, even pieces so they cook at the same rate as the other ingredients.
What do I do with leftover soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave out the noodles if you're freezing, as they can become mushy.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
To avoid mushy noodles, add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking as directed. If you're making the soup ahead of time, cook the noodles separately and stir them in just before serving.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Just omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can add more vegetables or even some beans for protein.
What's the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in the fridge in a sealed container. When reheating, do so on the stove or in the microwave. If it thickens too much, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Additional Information
Dietary Considerations
For a gluten-free version, substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. To make it dairy-free, ensure that any added toppings like Parmesan cheese are omitted or replaced with a dairy-free alternative. If you want to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the salt level to taste. This soup is also suitable for a low-carb diet by using cauliflower rice instead of noodles.
Pairings
This hearty Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread or warm dinner rolls for a satisfying meal. For a protein boost, consider adding slices of roasted chicken breast on the side. As for beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer complement the soup's flavors well. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon would be delightful.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot in deep bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and added flavor. Provide lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze into their soup, which brightens the dish. Consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch. To enhance the experience, serve with a side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, which adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Cuisine:
Course:
Description
A comforting and hearty chicken noodle soup that's incredibly easy to make in your crockpot. Perfect for chilly days!
Ingredients
- boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 1 pound
- carrots, sliced: 2
- celery stalks, chopped: 2
- onion, diced: 1
- garlic cloves, minced: 3
- chicken broth: 6 cups
- egg noodles: 2 cups
- dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
- salt: to taste
- black pepper: to taste
- parsley, chopped (optional): for garnish
Date Created:
11/22/2024