There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s simmering away in your trusty crockpot. The gentle melding of flavors fills the kitchen with a savory aroma as tender chicken and vibrant vegetables transform into a hearty Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon when I decided to take a break from the usual fast food routine, reimagining an old favorite with just a few simple ingredients.
Perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days, this recipe embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy after a long day, making it your go-to dish when you crave something satisfying yet easy to prepare. Whether you want to cozy up with a bowl for yourself or feed the family, this crockpot soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. So let’s dive into this recipe and discover how simple ingredients can create a delightful feast!
Why is Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup a must-try?
Comforting Warmth: A bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is like a hug on a chilly day, filling you with warmth and satisfaction.
Effortless Cooking: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Flavorful Goodness: The blend of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and hearty noodles creates a soul-soothing experience in every spoonful.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap in different proteins or veggies, making this soup easily tailored to your family’s taste preferences.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this soup in advance and enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week or freeze it for later, offering convenience and comfort anytime.
Invite comfort into your home with this classic dish!
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and flavor; extra virgin is recommended for the best taste.
• Large Onion – Provides a base of sweetness and depth; peel and chop before adding.
• Large Carrots – Contributes sweetness and color; peel and slice or chop for ease.
• Celery (optional) – Adds freshness and aroma; chop as preferred for extra crunch.
• Chicken Breasts (1.5 pounds, Skin-on & Bone-in) – This main protein source results in tender chicken; can be substituted with skinless, boneless breasts or thighs.
• Vegeta (or chicken base/bouillon) – Enhances flavor and gives the soup a vibrant color; substitute with equivalent chicken broth if Vegeta is unavailable.
• Salt – Balances flavors; adjust to taste for a perfect seasoning profile.
• Black Pepper – Provides seasoning; feel free to adjust to taste for your desired spice level.
• Water – Forms the soup base; use 8 cups for the right consistency.
• Bay Leaves – Adds an aromatic flavor; remember to remove them before serving.
• Dried Rosemary (optional) – Provides a fragrant element; can be omitted if you don’t have it on hand.
For the Noodles
• Egg Noodles (4 ounces or 2 cups dry) – Gives texture and is the heart of the dish; add towards the end of cooking for the best results.
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Adds color and freshness; chop it up for a beautiful finishing touch.
With these simple ingredients, your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is just steps away from warming your home and heart!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
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Prep the Slow Cooker: Begin by layering your ingredients in the crockpot. Add olive oil, chopped onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery (if using), chicken, Vegeta, salt, pepper, water, bay leaves, and dried rosemary for a flavor-packed base.
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Cooking Time: Set your crockpot to cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours. You’re aiming for the chicken to be cooked through and tender, making it easy to shred later.
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Shred Chicken: Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the onion and chicken from the pot. Discard the chicken’s skin and bones; then, shred the meat using two forks and return it to your savory broth.
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Add Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and set the crockpot to High for an additional hour. This allows the noodles to cook to a tender perfection—just watch for that lovely texture!
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Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy it alongside saltine crackers or crusty bread for a truly comforting experience.
Optional: Drizzle a bit of lemon juice for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the soup is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 4-6 months. Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion when the soup freezes.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warm. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to restore the creamy consistency of your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup.
Portioning: Consider freezing individual servings for a quick meal option later; it’s perfect for those busy days when comfort food is essential!
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Variations
Feel free to play with ingredients and customize this soup to suit your taste, making it even more delightful!
- Rotisserie Chicken: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal; just add it toward the end to warm through.
- Veggie Boost: Add fresh or frozen peas and corn during the last hour of cooking for a burst of color and nutrition. These little gems not only enhance flavor but provide a nutritional punch.
- Herb Swaps: Substitute the rosemary with thyme or sage for a different flavor profile that brings your favorite herb garden into the soup.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, toss in a dash of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños while it cooks, awakening the taste buds with each spoonful.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini, maintaining that comforting texture without the gluten.
- Creamy Delight: Mix in heavy cream or a splash of coconut milk in the last 15 minutes for a luscious, creamy soup experience that wraps you in warmth.
- Unique Protein: Experiment with shredded turkey or roasted chickpeas for plant-based protein, offering a new twist while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
- Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for a refreshing brightness that elevates the flavors, creating a perfectly balanced bowl.
Let your culinary creativity shine while savoring this heartwarming classic!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can season the chicken with salt, pepper, and vegeta, then keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply add the prepped ingredients to your slow cooker with the water and bay leaves, and switch it on. To maintain freshness and flavor, be sure to refrigerate any leftovers. With this make-ahead approach, you’ll have a home-cooked meal that’s just as delicious waiting for you!
What to Serve with Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Cozy up your meal with these delightful pairings that enhance the comfort of your soup.
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Crusty Bread: Freshly baked, crusty bread is perfect for dipping, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the soup’s creaminess.
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Saltine Crackers: Crispy and salty, they add a nostalgic touch to each spoonful, creating a charming, classic combo.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the warm, hearty soup. The crunchiness and acidity cleanse the palate beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: Soft and warm with a buttery garlic flavor, this comforting bread adds richness that pairs perfectly with your savory broth. Warm and aromatic, it invites you to indulge a little more.
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Steamed Vegetables: Bright steamed carrots or broccoli bring freshness and balance to the meal while elevating the nutritional value. They’re a light, healthful addition that won’t overpower the main dish.
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Herbal Tea: A cup of calming herbal tea can round off your cozy meal wonderfully. It provides warmth and can be a soothing way to enjoy the evening.
Enjoy the delightful interplay of flavors and textures with these perfect accompaniments, transforming your crockpot chicken noodle soup into a heartwarming feast!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
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Avoid Frozen Chicken: Make sure your chicken is fully thawed before adding it to the crockpot to prevent bacterial growth.
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Noodle Timing Is Key: Add egg noodles during the last hour of cooking. This prevents them from becoming mushy and retains that delightful texture.
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Enhance the Creaminess: For a rich twist, stir in heavy cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking to create a creamy version of your crockpot chicken noodle soup.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add in other vegetables like peas or corn towards the end for a pop of color and flavor.
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Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving. You might want to adjust the salt and pepper according to your family’s preferences for the perfect flavor!
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, use skin-on, bone-in chicken breasts. They add richness to the broth as they cook. If you prefer, you can easily substitute them with skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs, but the cooking time may be slightly reduced.
How should I store leftover Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to keep it fresh. If you find yourself with more soup than you can eat in that time, feel free to freeze it!
Can I freeze Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can! Freeze your soup in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 4-6 months. I recommend portioning it into individual servings for easy reheating on busy nights. Just leave a little space at the top of the container for the soup to expand as it freezes.
What do I do if my noodles turn mushy?
Very! Mushy noodles can occur if they’re added too early. To avoid this, remember to add the egg noodles during the last hour of cooking. If that happens, and you notice your noodles are soft, simply serve the soup immediately to enjoy them at their best texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with food allergies, make sure to check the ingredient labels. The soup contains chicken, which may not be suitable for vegetarians or some religious diets. Also, if you’re considering serving this to pets, be cautious. The soup contains onions, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Always consult with a vet before sharing human food with your furry friends!
Can I make this soup creamy?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a creamy twist, stir in about a cup of heavy cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This will give your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup a rich and luxurious texture!
Hearty Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup for Cozy Evenings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Layer ingredients in the crockpot: olive oil, chopped onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery (if using), chicken, Vegeta, salt, pepper, water, bay leaves, and dried rosemary.
- Set your crockpot to cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the onion and chicken from the pot.
- Discard the chicken's skin and bones; shred the meat using two forks and return it to the broth.
- Stir in the egg noodles and set the crockpot to High for an additional hour.
- Ladle the warm soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.