Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is the ideal comfort food for chilly nights. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and egg noodles, all simmered together to create a rich and flavorful soup. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you’re feeling under the weather, this recipe allows your slow cooker to do all the work while you enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply toss in your ingredients and let the slow cooker enhance their flavors.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables and lean chicken, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it on its own or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal any time of year.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors, this soup is sure to please family and friends at gatherings.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing flavors while you go about your day.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without damaging your countertops.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cuts, making prep work quick and easy.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantee accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.

Ingredients

For this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Vegetables

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

Broth & Seasoning

• 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 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
• salt and pepper, to taste

Noodles & Fresh Ingredients

• 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. Cooking time may vary depending on your crockpot model and the size of chicken pieces/vegetables.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Chop or shred them using two forks and then return them back into the slow cooker.

Step 4: Add Noodles

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

Step 5: Finish with Lemon & Parsley

Once the egg noodles are cooked through, stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Serving Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is simple and satisfying. This comforting dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that can enhance its rich flavors.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme: Add a few sprigs of thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the soup’s flavor.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Croutons: Top your bowl with crispy croutons for added texture.
• Toasted Seeds: Pumpkin or sunflower seeds provide a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with the soup.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A slice of warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Flavorful garlic bread pairs well and enhances the overall meal experience.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispiness and a creamy element to your meal.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad helps balance the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup can elevate this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use High-Quality Stock: Start with a flavorful chicken stock or broth; it makes all the difference in taste.
• Add Ingredients in Stages: For best texture, add egg noodles in the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper towards the end of cooking for ideal seasoning.
• Shred Chicken Properly: After cooking, shred chicken into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the soup.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup can create a more rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A simple yet flavorful side, perfect for dipping into the soup’s broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crispy romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins complement the savory soup beautifully while adding a delightful texture.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies provide a hearty addition to your meal.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges make for a filling side that kids love too.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup can be a simple dish, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are key errors to watch out for:

• Ignoring seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Add heartier vegetables like carrots and celery early, but consider adding softer ones later in the cooking process.
• Using low-quality broth: Low-quality broth can diminish the flavor of your soup. Opt for a good quality low-sodium chicken stock to enhance the overall taste.
• Skipping the lemon juice: Lemon juice adds brightness to the soup. Don’t forget to stir it in at the end for a fresh finish.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Shredding chicken immediately after cooking can lead to dryness. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding to keep it moist.

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 space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Simmer on medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can add frozen chicken directly into your slow cooker. Just ensure it cooks fully by adjusting cooking time if needed.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

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

What is the best way to customize Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup?

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like peas or corn, or using different herbs like dill or basil for varied flavors.

How long does it take to cook on high heat?

If you choose to cook on high heat, expect the soup to be ready in about 4-5 hours instead of 6-8 hours on low.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. Its simplicity allows for easy customization; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delicious warmth!