When the chilly winds of fall begin to creep in and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of homemade chicken noodle soup wafting through the kitchen. That heartwarming scent of savory chicken mingling with tender vegetables can instantly lift your spirits and evoke memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. This Easy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is my go-to recipe for those moments when the cold outside makes a warm, nourishing bowl of comfort food so irresistible.
I love how this recipe allows you to embrace the simplicity of slow cooking. Just toss in wholesome ingredients like fresh herbs, sweet carrots, and rustic egg noodles, set your crockpot, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Whether you’re toying with the idea of using chicken thighs or a rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep, this soup is sure to delight both friends and family alike. Join me on this culinary journey and rediscover the joys of home-cooked meals with a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul.
Why is Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup so comforting?
Warmth: This recipe is like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights.
Effortless: Simply throw your ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the work for you!
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the proteins or add extra veggies based on what you have on hand.
Crowd-pleaser: It’s a family favorite, sure to impress both young and old.
Nourishing: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a guilt-free treat perfect for any day.
For a twist, you might also enjoy adding some flavorful herbs from your garden to elevate the soup even more!
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Chicken Breasts – Main protein; use boneless, skinless for a healthy twist.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; remember to adjust to your taste.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth; feel free to use more if you like it spicier.
• Yellow Onion – Provides a base flavor; leaving it whole makes removal a breeze.
• Carrots – Adds sweetness and color; cut into 1/4-inch coins for even cooking.
• Celery – Gives crunch and freshness; thinly sliced for the best texture.
• Garlic Cloves – Brings aromatic depth; mince for even distribution of flavor.
• Fresh Rosemary – Infuses the soup with aromatic goodness; tie it in a bundle for easy removal.
• Bay Leaf – Imparts a subtle depth of flavor; don’t forget to discard it after cooking.
• Chicken Stock – Acts as the base liquid; low-sodium is preferred for a healthier option.
Substitution/Prep Note: Low-sodium chicken broth works nicely, too.
• Whole Wheat Wide Egg Noodles – Adds heft and texture; pre-cook them to avoid mushiness.
• Fresh Parsley – For garnish, this adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
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Prepare: Start by adding the chicken breasts to the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. Season generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
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Add Veggies: Toss in the whole onion, cut carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Don’t forget to add the tied rosemary bundle and bay leaf. Pour in 6 cups of chicken stock to cover all ingredients.
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Cook: Cover and set your crockpot to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours or HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F—perfectly cooked and tender!
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Shred Chicken: Once done, remove the chicken from the crockpot. Discard the onion, bay leaf, and rosemary. Shred the chicken with two forks and set it aside while the soup aroma envelops your kitchen.
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Cook Noodles: If you’re cooking the noodles separately, boil them until al dente; they can be added later to maintain their texture. Alternatively, you can add uncooked noodles directly to the crockpot and cook on LOW for about 10 minutes or until they’re perfectly al dente.
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Combine: Stir in the shredded chicken and add any remaining chicken stock to adjust the soup’s consistency as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of vibrancy!
Optional: Pair it with crusty bread for the perfect dipping companion.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This Easy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade goodness with less stress! You can chop the veggies (carrots, celery, and garlic) and refrigerate them in an airtight container up to 3 days before cooking. Additionally, you can season and prepare the chicken breasts, keeping them marinated overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the prepped ingredients and chicken along with the chicken stock to the slow cooker. If you prefer, you can also cook the noodles separately ahead of time to maintain their perfect texture before adding them to the soup. With these tips, you’ll enjoy the comforting warmth of your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup with minimal effort on busy nights!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
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Chicken Safety: Always use thawed chicken, as cooking frozen chicken in the crockpot can lead to uneven cooking and safety issues.
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Noodle Texture: For the best consistency, consider cooking the egg noodles separately and adding them just before serving to avoid mushiness in your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup.
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Taste Adjustments: Remember to adjust the seasonings to suit your preference; a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors beautifully!
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Shredding Made Easy: Use a hand mixer to shred the cooked chicken effortlessly—it’s quick and minimizes mess!
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Veggie Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables or substitute based on what you have available; frozen peas or corn work wonderfully in this soup.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Fridge: Store your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
- Freezer: If you’d like to keep this heartwarming soup longer, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a splash of chicken stock or water to restore the desired consistency upon reheating.
- Avoiding Mushiness: If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the noodles separately upon serving to maintain their texture.
What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
To complete your comforting meal, consider these delightful pairings that elevate your dining experience.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, it adds a deliciously satisfying crunch to your soft soup.
- Garden Salad: A fresh side salad introduces vibrant colors and a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the savory broth wonderfully, making every bite a treat.
- Roasted Vegetables: Offers a hearty bite and diverse textures, adding sumptuous roasted flavor alongside the soup.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Warm, gooey biscuits topped with cheese create an inviting taste that harmonizes beautifully with the soup’s warmth.
- Apple Crisp: A sweet finish, this dessert pairs wonderfully with the hearty soup and rounds out your cozy meal perfectly.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint adds warmth and relaxation, enhancing your comforting dinner.
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing, bubbly drink contrasts nicely with the creamy textures, clearing your palate between bites.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and make this comforting soup your own with a few fun twists!
- Rotisserie Chicken: Swap raw chicken for rotisserie chicken to save prep time and still enjoy great flavor. Just shred and add!
- Gluten-Free Noodles: Use gluten-free egg noodles or rice noodles to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
- Potato Addition: Dice and add potatoes for extra heartiness and creaminess that enriches every bowl of soup.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh thyme or dill instead of rosemary for an aromatic twist that brightens the flavor profile.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a luxuriously creamy texture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, or throw in diced jalapeños for a spicy version that warms the soul.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking for an added nutritional boost and a pop of color.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for my soup?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a healthy option. However, chicken thighs can also be used if you prefer darker meat with more flavor. Always look for bright pink, moist pieces without dark spots for the freshest options.
How should I store leftovers of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Store your delicious Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure nice, even warmth.
Can I freeze leftover soup, and how?
Yes, you can freeze this comforting soup! Simply pour portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, adding a splash of chicken stock or water during reheating to help bring back the soup’s original consistency and avoid any dryness.
What should I do if my soup turns out too salty?
If you find your soup a touch too salty, don’t worry! You can add more liquid, such as low-sodium chicken stock or water, to dilute the saltiness. Another trick is to toss in a peeled potato; let it cook for about 10 minutes, and then remove it. The potato will absorb some salt, helping balance the flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! When preparing your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, keep allergies in mind, especially with ingredients like garlic and chicken broth. For gluten-free options, simply substitute whole wheat noodles with gluten-free noodles or even rice. Always check labels or consider making homemade broth to avoid hidden allergens. If you’re preparing this for a family with pets, ensure no bones or toxic ingredients like onions are left in the soup.
Can I customize the vegetables in the soup?
The more the merrier! This soup is highly customizable. If you want to change things up, feel free to add extra veggies like peas, corn, or even spinach for extra nutrition. Just remember to cut cooking time accordingly as some may cook faster than others. Enjoy adapting it based on what you have at home!
Cozy Up with Easy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by adding the chicken breasts to the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. Season generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Toss in the whole onion, cut carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Add the tied rosemary bundle and bay leaf. Pour in 6 cups of chicken stock to cover all ingredients.
- Cover and set your crockpot to cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours or HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the crockpot. Discard the onion, bay leaf, and rosemary. Shred the chicken with two forks and set aside.
- If cooking noodles separately, boil until al dente; they can be added later. Alternatively, add uncooked noodles directly to the crockpot and cook on LOW for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and adjust the soup's consistency as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.