Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is a cozy dish perfect for chilly days and gatherings. This recipe brings warmth and comfort to your table, letting your crockpot do all the hard work. Simply toss in your ingredients and enjoy a delightful homemade meal that fills the room with rich aromas. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners or when you want something hearty without much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and no need for constant monitoring, you can set it and forget it.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a deliciously satisfying soup.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or noodles to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and veggies, this soup is both nourishing and low in calories.
• Perfect Leftovers: It stores well in the fridge, making it great for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable! Here are some essential items you’ll need to make this Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show, allowing for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over hours.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring easy clean-up afterwards.
• Sharp knife: A good knife makes slicing through onions, carrots, and other ingredients quick and simple.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 4 medium carrots, sliced into rounds or half moons
• 4 stalks celery, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For Flavoring

• 8 cups chicken stock or broth, low sodium preferred
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 1.5lbs (or chicken thighs)
• 2 dried bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme, or 1 tbs fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, or 1 tbs fresh rosemary (chopped)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving

• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

In a large slow cooker, add all ingredients except for the fresh parsley, lemon juice, and egg noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Cook the Soup

Cook on low for 6-8 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked, and the veggies should be tender. Keep in mind that cook times may vary depending on your crockpot model and the size of your chicken/diced veggies.

Step 3: Shred Chicken

Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use two forks to chop or shred them into bite-sized pieces before adding them back into the slow cooker.

Step 4: Add Noodles

Add in egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure that they are submerged in the liquid. Cover again and cook on low for another 5-10 minutes until noodles are just tender. Alternatively, you can cook them separately in boiling water on the stove.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Once noodles are cooked, stir in the lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is easy and versatile. This comforting dish can be enjoyed in many ways, making it perfect for any meal occasion.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Bread: Pair the soup with a warm loaf of crusty bread for dipping.
• Over Rice: Serve the soup over a bed of cooked rice for a heartier option.
• In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a small bread loaf and fill it with soup for a fun twist.

Garnishing Ideas

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for added freshness.
• Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cracked Pepper: A dash of cracked black pepper enhances the taste beautifully.

Family Style Serving

• In Large Bowls: Ladle the soup into large bowls and let everyone serve themselves.
• With Toppings Bar: Set up toppings like shredded cheese, croutons, or extra spices for customization.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips to ensure rich flavors and the best texture.

• Choose Quality Broth: Use high-quality chicken stock or broth for deeper flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Allow enough time for the flavors to meld together; cooking on low for 6-8 hours is ideal.
• Add Noodles Last: To keep noodles from becoming mushy, add them towards the end of cooking.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary enhance the aroma and taste significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad adds crunch and balances the warmth of the soup.
2. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the soup perfectly while providing a satisfying crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Cheese Toasts: Melted cheese on toast offers a savory bite that pairs nicely with the soup’s flavors.
5. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
6. Fruit Platter: A selection of fresh fruits can cleanse the palate and add natural sweetness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is easy to make, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Boldly overcooking the chicken – If you leave the chicken in too long, it can dry out. Stick to the recommended cooking time and check for doneness.
• Boldly skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning your soup can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
• Boldly adding noodles too early – If you add egg noodles at the beginning, they may become mushy. Wait until the chicken is cooked and shredded before adding them in.
• Boldly neglecting fresh herbs – Fresh parsley and lemon juice bring brightness and flavor. Don’t skip them; add them at the end for the best taste.
• Boldly ignoring broth quality – Using low-quality broth can result in an unappetizing soup. Opt for low sodium chicken stock or broth for better results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup:

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just ensure they’re fully cooked before serving.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup, substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition.

How long does it take to cook on high?

If using the high setting on your slow cooker, this recipe will take around 3-4 hours instead of 6-8 hours on low.

What can I serve with this soup?

This comforting soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for chilly days when you need comfort food without fuss. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try adding your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own!