Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm and cozy dish that’s perfect for chilly days. It’s filled with tender chicken, yummy noodles, and a mix of fresh vegetables all simmered together.
It’s super easy to make—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work! I love how it fills my kitchen with a lovely smell while I relax. Grab a bowl and enjoy a hearty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs. I prefer thighs for their tenderness and richer flavor. If you’re aiming for lighter options, skinless chicken is best. Rotisserie chicken works well too, making the prep super easy!
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is ideal to control the saltiness. If you’re short on broth, water mixed with bouillon cubes can substitute. Homemade broth enhances the taste; if you have it, go for it!
Vegetables: Carrots and celery are traditional, but feel free to add peas, corn, or even spinach if desired! Zucchini can also make a great addition. Fresh vegetables will give your soup a vibrant flavor.
Noodles: Egg noodles are classic, but you can swap them with whole wheat pasta, rice, or gluten-free noodles if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Tender?
For tender chicken, the cooking time matters. Using the crockpot allows the chicken to cook slowly, soaking in all the flavors. Here’s how:
- Place the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot for even cooking.
- Keep the lid on while cooking to maintain moisture. Avoid opening it too often!
- Shred the chicken once it’s cooked all the way through, this allows it to absorb more broth flavors before serving.
With these tips and substitutions, you’ll make a delicious and hearty Chicken Noodle Soup that your family will love! Enjoy the warmth that it brings!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 ounces egg noodles or wide egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Time Estimate:
This comforting soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Once it’s ready, just let it cook until the chicken is tender, and the vegetables are cooked through. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your crockpot. This way, they cook evenly and soak up all the yummy flavors from the broth and veggies.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the sliced carrots, celery, diced onion, and minced garlic right on top of the chicken. These fresh vegetables will add a ton of flavor and nutrition!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. Carefully add the dried thyme, parsley, and rosemary if you’re using it. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir to combine it a bit.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and the veggies are tender.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, take the chicken out carefully and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should come apart easily!
6. Return Chicken to the Pot:
Put the shredded chicken back into the crockpot. This way, it’ll soak up more of that delicious broth.
7. Add the Noodles:
Turn the crockpot to high. Add the egg noodles and a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the soup. This will make the noodles nice and flavorful!
8. Cook the Noodles:
Let it cook for another 20-30 minutes, until the noodles are tender but still hold their shape. Stir occasionally to make sure everything is well mixed.
9. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remember, adding fresh parsley on top right before serving will add a lovely touch!
10. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious soup hot in bowls, and enjoy this comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup with your favorite bread or crackers!
This dish is not only easy to make, but it also warms the heart and soul—perfect for any chilly day!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low (7-8 hours total) to ensure it cooks through completely. No need to thaw beforehand!
Can I Substitute the Egg Noodles?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can use whole wheat pasta, or for gluten-free, try rice or gluten-free noodles. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup (without noodles) for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to add fresh noodles when you reheat it.
