Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you're craving a warm, hearty meal that's both nourishing and easy to prepare, this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is exactly what you need! Whether you're battling a cold, feeding a family, or just want something cozy for dinner, this classic soup is sure to hit the spot. Keep reading to discover how to make the perfect bowl of chicken noodle soup right in your slow cooker with minimal effort. You'll find everything you need, from the list of ingredients to substitutions, step-by-step instructions, and more!

this Recipe

What is Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a slow-cooked version of the traditional chicken noodle soup, but with the ease and convenience of using a crockpot (slow cooker). The low-and-slow cooking method allows the flavors to blend beautifully, while the chicken becomes tender and juicy, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. It's a wholesome, nourishing dish packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth.

Ingredients List for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

To create this delicious and comforting dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken – 1 to 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
2. Carrots – 2 to 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced.
3. Celery – 2 to 3 celery stalks, diced.
4. Onion – 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
5. Garlic – 2 to 3 cloves, minced.
6. Chicken broth – 6 to 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth.
7. Egg noodles – 2 to 3 cups of uncooked egg noodles (you can also use other types of pasta).
8. Bay leaves – 2 bay leaves to enhance flavor.
9. Fresh herbs – 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley or thyme for garnish.
10. Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.

Ingredients List for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup (Seasoning and Optional Add-Ins)

For added flavor and customization, consider adding these optional ingredients:

1. Thyme – 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme.
2. Rosemary – 1 teaspoon dried rosemary for a more herbal flavor.
3. Lemon juice – A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end for brightness.
4. Parmesan cheese – For topping the soup, adding a salty, savory kick.
5. Baby spinach – 2 cups for a nutritious boost of greens.
6. Cornstarch slurry – If you prefer a thicker broth, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about crockpot chicken noodle soup is its versatility. Whether you need to adjust for dietary preferences or just want to switch things up, there are several easy substitutions and variations you can try:

1. Chicken substitutions: Instead of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor or even leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
2. Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or peas. You can also substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta, rice, or even quinoa for a grain alternative.
3. Noodles: Swap egg noodles for whole-wheat noodles, gluten-free noodles, or rice noodles if you're catering to dietary restrictions.
4. Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill, oregano, or basil for a unique twist on the flavor profile. Fresh herbs work best, but dried versions can also be used.
5. Broth: While chicken broth is the base of the recipe, vegetable broth or a mix of chicken and beef broth can give your soup a deeper, richer flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing and chopping your vegetables (carrots, celery, onion, and garlic). You can also trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs at this stage.
2. Layer the crockpot: Place the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot. Add in the chopped carrots, celery, onions, garlic, bay leaves, and any optional herbs (like thyme and rosemary). Pour the chicken broth over everything.
3. Season and start cooking: Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
4. Shred the chicken: About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
5. Add the noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on high until the noodles are tender.
6. Finish with herbs: Stir in fresh parsley or thyme and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice if desired.

How to Cook Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Assemble the Ingredients
   Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your vegetables (carrots, celery, onion) and garlic. Trim your chicken breasts or thighs to remove any excess fat.
2. Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
   Place the chicken at the bottom of your crockpot. Layer on the chopped veggies and garlic, followed by the bay leaves and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
3. Step 3: Pour the Broth
   Add 6 to 8 cups of chicken broth, enough to cover all the ingredients. Make sure to stir in salt and pepper as well.
4. Step 4: Slow Cook
   Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Step 5: Shred the Chicken
   Once the cooking time is nearly complete, remove the chicken from the crockpot, shred it with forks, and place it back into the soup.
6. Step 6: Add the Noodles
   Add the egg noodles to the crockpot, stir, and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes until the noodles are cooked.
7. Step 7: Taste and Serve
   Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings. If you like, add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the noodles: Adding the noodles too early can cause them to become mushy. Always add them in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
2. Using too much salt: Because slow cooking can concentrate flavors, be cautious with the amount of salt you add at the beginning. Taste and adjust at the end.
3. Not shredding the chicken properly: To get a tender, evenly textured chicken, make sure to shred it finely and not in large chunks.
4. Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme add a burst of flavor. Don’t skip them, or your soup might taste flat.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving your crockpot chicken noodle soup, presentation can make all the difference. Here are some tips:

1. Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the visual appeal and enhance the flavor of the soup.
2. Serve with bread: A slice of crusty bread or a side of garlic toast is perfect for dipping into the broth.
3. Use a deep bowl: A deep, wide bowl not only helps retain the heat of the soup but also makes it easier to serve and enjoy.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Hot and fresh: Ladle the hot soup into bowls right after cooking and garnish with fresh herbs.
2. With a side salad: Pair the soup with a light salad to round out the meal.
3. For meal prep: You can store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Mason jars: For a rustic and charming presentation, serve the soup in mason jars with a sprig of parsley on top.
2. Bread bowls: Hollow out round loaves of bread and serve the soup inside the bread bowl for a fun and hearty presentation.

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Tips

1. Freeze the soup without noodles: If you plan on freezing leftovers, omit the noodles and add them fresh when reheating the soup.
2. Use homemade broth: For the richest flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have time.
3. Add noodles to individual servings: To avoid soggy noodles in leftovers, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual bowls when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
   Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to add extra cooking time (about 1 to 2 additional hours on low).
2. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Absolutely! Substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or use rice or quinoa instead.
3. How long can I store leftovers?
   Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
4. What can I use instead of chicken breasts?
   Chicken thighs are an excellent alternative for a more flavorful, tender meat option.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or when you're feeling under the weather. It's easy to customize, freezes well, and will leave you with a deliciously hearty meal that’s packed with flavor. Whether you're feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and let the slow cooker do the work for you—there’s nothing better than coming home to a bowl of warm, homemade chicken noodle soup!

Print