Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup when you’re feeling under the weather, or you simply want a cozy, homemade meal. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles, this recipe is easy to prepare, thanks to the crockpot. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying broth. The best part? With minimal prep time, you can toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day. Stick around to learn how to make this delicious soup, along with some tips, variations, and serving ideas.

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What is Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic comfort food made with chunks of juicy chicken, carrots, celery, onions, and egg noodles, all simmered in a savory broth. The crockpot makes the process easy by slowly cooking the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to fully develop over time. This soup is perfect for cold days, when you’re feeling sick, or when you just need something warm and satisfying. It's also a great make-ahead meal, as the flavors get even better the next day.

Ingredients List for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup:

1. Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless) – 1 ½ pounds
   You can use either chicken breasts for a leaner soup or thighs for extra flavor and tenderness.
2. Carrots (peeled and sliced into rounds) – 3 medium
   Carrots add sweetness and a soft texture to the soup.
3. Celery (sliced) – 3 stalks
   Celery adds crunch and a subtle savory flavor.
4. Onion (diced) – 1 medium
   Onion forms the flavor base of the broth.
5. Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves
   Garlic adds depth and a fragrant aroma to the soup.
6. Chicken broth (low-sodium) – 8 cups
   Chicken broth is the base of the soup, giving it that rich, savory flavor. Opt for low-sodium to control the salt levels.
7. Bay leaves – 2
   Bay leaves add a mild herbal flavor and a touch of bitterness that balances the richness of the broth.
8. Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon
   Thyme is a classic herb that pairs well with chicken and adds warmth to the soup.
9. Dried parsley – 1 teaspoon
   Parsley adds a fresh, slightly peppery note to the soup.
10. Salt and black pepper – to taste
    Season the soup according to your preference.
11. Egg noodles – 3 cups (about 6 ounces)
    Egg noodles are the traditional choice for chicken noodle soup, and they cook up soft and tender in the broth.
12. Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – 2 tablespoons, chopped
    Adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished soup.
13. Lemon juice (optional) – 1 tablespoon
    A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors of the soup right before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. Chicken Substitutions:
   You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for extra flavor. Just remove the skin before cooking and shred the meat off the bones after the chicken is fully cooked.
2. Noodle Variations:
   If you prefer a different type of noodle, you can use pasta shapes like rotini, ditalini, or even rice for a gluten-free option. Whole wheat noodles or gluten-free noodles can also be used.
3. Vegetarian Option:
   To make this soup vegetarian, substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. Herb Variations:
   Feel free to use fresh herbs like rosemary, dill, or oregano to add a different flavor profile to the soup.
5. Add Extra Veggies:
   For a heartier soup, add vegetables like zucchini, peas, or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is incredibly simple. Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the Vegetables:
   Slice the carrots, celery, and onion into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Mince the garlic.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot

2. Layer in the Crockpot:
   Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings:
   Pour in the chicken broth, then add the bay leaves, thyme, parsley, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook

4. Cook on Low or High:
   Cover and cook the soup on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

5. Shred the Chicken:
   Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

6. Add Noodles:
   Stir in the egg noodles and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on high, or until the noodles are soft. If you prefer firmer noodles, cook them separately according to package instructions and add them to the soup just before serving.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

7. Season to Taste:
   Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Step 7: Serve

8. Garnish and Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

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

1. Prep the Vegetables and Chicken:
   Chop the vegetables and place the chicken in the crockpot for a hands-off cooking process.
2. Layer and Season:
   Add the vegetables, broth, and seasonings, then let the crockpot work its magic while you go about your day.
3. Shred the Chicken:
   Once the chicken is cooked, shred it and return it to the soup for a perfectly tender texture.
4. Add Noodles:
   Cook the noodles in the crockpot at the end, or cook them separately if you prefer them firmer.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Ladle the hot, comforting soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs for a cozy, satisfying meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Noodles:
   Adding the noodles too early can cause them to overcook and become mushy. Make sure to add them during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
2. Under-seasoning the Soup:
   Chicken noodle soup needs enough salt and pepper to bring out all the flavors. Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Overcrowding the Crockpot:
   Avoid overloading the crockpot with too many ingredients, as it can cause uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe quantities for the best results.
4. Not Searing the Chicken (Optional):
   While this step is not necessary, searing the chicken before adding it to the crockpot can add an extra layer of flavor. If you have time, you can quickly brown the chicken in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food and can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• With Crusty Bread:
  Serve the soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
• With Crackers:
  Classic butter crackers or oyster crackers are perfect for adding crunch to the soup.
• With a Light Salad:
  Pair the soup with a simple green salad or a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the broth.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

1. In Bread Bowls:
   Hollow out a round loaf of bread and ladle the soup into the bread bowl for a rustic presentation.
2. With a Squeeze of Lemon:
   Add a wedge of lemon on the side for guests to squeeze into their soup, brightening up the flavors.
3. Top with Fresh Herbs:
   Garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Serve in Mason Jars:
   For a fun, rustic presentation, serve individual portions of soup in mason jars with a slice of bread on the side.
2. Family Style:
   Place the crockpot in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves from the pot. This is a great way to create a casual, comforting atmosphere.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top of each bowl will add a pop of color and elevate the presentation.

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead:
   This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
2. Freezing Instructions:
   To freeze the soup, cook it without the noodles. Once the soup has cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat the soup, then add cooked noodles.
3. Adjust Consistency:
   If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by 1 to 2 hours on low. Be sure to check that the chicken is fully cooked before shredding.
2. Can I cook the noodles separately?
   Yes, if you prefer firmer noodles, you can cook them separately according to package instructions and add them to the soup just before serving.
3. Can I use bone-in chicken?
   Absolutely! Using bone-in chicken adds extra flavor to the broth. Simply remove the bones after cooking and shred the meat.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple, delicious, and comforting Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a little warmth in your life. This recipe is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Whether you enjoy it with crusty bread, crackers, or on its own, this soup will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. Enjoy!

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