Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that will warm you up on a chilly day? This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Slow Cooker is the perfect solution. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can have a flavorful and soothing dish ready to enjoy. It’s a simple, healthy meal that your whole family will love.
The Inspiration Behind The Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Slow Cooke Recipe
This easy chicken noodle soup recipe was inspired by creating a homemade version of a classic dish perfect for busy days. The slow cooker does all the work, bringing you home to a warm, hearty soup made with fresh ingredients. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any noodles of your choice)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts, broth, water, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the egg noodles and cook on high for 20-30 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Variations
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to add corn, peas, or green beans to suit your tastes.
- Use different proteins: You can substitute chicken with turkey or a rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free noodles to make this soup suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Cooking Notes
- The soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it perfect for leftovers.
- If you like a thicker soup, add more noodles or vegetables.
- This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices.
Serving Suggestions
This easy chicken noodle soup pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread, a simple salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it as a light, nourishing meal.
Tips
- You can combine chicken broth and chicken stock if you prefer a richer broth.
- For extra flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste after adding the noodles, as they can absorb some of the salt from the broth.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
6-7 hours on low
Total Time
6 hours 15 minutes – 7 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Why Homemade Stock Makes All the Difference
While you can certainly use store-bought chicken broth for this recipe, nothing beats the depth of flavor that comes from homemade stock. When you make your chicken stock, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that the broth is rich, flavorful, and free from artificial additives. Homemade stock also has a much more robust taste compared to store-bought versions, which can sometimes taste bland or overly salty.
To make homemade chicken stock, simply simmer chicken bones, vegetables, herbs, and water for several hours. This process extracts all the natural flavors from the chicken, creating a rich and savory broth that forms the base of your soup. If you don’t have time to make your stock, look for high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth at the store.
Variations for a Unique Twist
While this chicken noodle soup recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to put your spin on it. Here are a few variations to consider:
Add Extra Veggies:
If you want to make the soup even more nutritious, consider adding other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or green beans. These vegetables will add more flavor and texture to the soup while also increasing its vitamin content.
Spice It Up:
For those who like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. This will give the soup a spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Gluten-Free Option:
If you need a gluten-free version of this soup, simply swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta. There are many gluten-free pasta options available, so you can still enjoy the comforting texture of noodles without the gluten
Perfect Pairings for Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some perfect pairings to serve alongside your soup:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic pairing for chicken noodle soup. The crispy, melty cheese perfectly complements the warm broth.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to dip into the soup. A baguette or sourdough works especially well.
- Side Salad: A light side salad with fresh greens can balance out the richness of the soup. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Why This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a Must-Try
This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe is a must-try because it’s both simple and satisfying. The homemade stock, tender chicken, and hearty egg noodles create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own. Whether you’re feeding a family or making a big batch for meal prep, this soup is sure to become a comforting go-to recipe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Just cook it for the full 7 hours to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
You can cook this recipe on the stovetop by simmering the ingredients in a large pot for about 30-40 minutes. Add the noodles in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Slow Cooker is the perfect meal for busy nights when you want a comforting dish without spending too much time in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying soup that the whole family can enjoy.
