Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup. Growing up, my mom would whip up a big batch every winter, filling our home with the warm aroma of simmering chicken and fresh vegetables. On cold, snowy days, there was nothing better than coming home to that inviting scent, knowing a hearty meal was waiting for us. This soup became a family tradition, perfect for cozy nights in or when someone was under the weather. With its tender pieces of chicken and al dente pasta, this dish brings back so many memories for me. I can already hear the laughter around the dinner table as we enjoyed the delicious warmth of this classic recipe.
Recipe Snapshot
4 hr 10 mins
10 mins
240 mins
Hard
320 kcal
24 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
10 g
Slow Cooker, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Frying Pan
The Beauty of This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
It’s a True Comfort Food
There’s a reason Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is cherished by many. It’s the ultimate comfort food, filled with love and warmth. When you take that first sip, the rich flavors of the simmered chicken stock and aromatic vegetables envelop you like a warm hug. Nothing beats the satisfaction of a homemade soup, especially one that reminds you of family and tradition.
Easy Preparation
What I adore most about this recipe is how simple it is. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it! This is ideal for busy days when you want a nurturing meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is versatile, making it suitable for chilly weeknights, family gatherings, or even small get-togethers. It’s easy to double the recipe if you’re expecting company or simply want leftovers to enjoy for a few days. You can even serve it as a starter at a dinner party!
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Besides being delicious, Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is packed with nutrients. The vegetables used, such as carrots and celery, provide essential vitamins and minerals, while chicken adds protein to the mix. It’s a great way to nourish your body, especially during flu season.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the highlights of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have available. Do you prefer spinach over leeks? Go for it! Want to throw in some green beans? Absolutely! This soup can easily be tailored to suit your family’s preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it also stores well. Perfect for meal prep, you can make a large batch and refrigerate or freeze portions for later. This means you can enjoy a homemade meal even on the busiest days.
Everything You Need for Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
The ingredients in Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup work in harmony to create a rich and flavorful broth that comforts the soul. The fresh chicken provides a hearty base, while the vegetables add texture and sweetness. Gather these key players for a nourishing bowl of goodness!
- 2-3 pounds chicken parts: The star of the soup, providing protein and flavor.
- 8 cups low sodium chicken stock: A flavorful foundation that adds depth to the soup.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aroma to the broth.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: A staple for enhancing flavors.
- 4 carrots, chopped: They bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 4 celery stalks, chopped: Adds crunch and a fresh taste.
- 2 leeks, chopped into half moons: Provide a delicate onion-like flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme: Adds an earthy aroma to the soup.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuses the broth with a subtle herbal flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- 2 cups pasta (rotini or macaroni are our faves): The comforting carbohydrate element.
- pepper to taste: Adds warmth and spice.
- fresh parsley for topping (if desired): A fresh finish.
- crackers to accompany: Perfect for dipping!
The Process for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into making Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup. It’s an exciting process, and the best part is watching all the ingredients come together. Follow these simple steps to create a heartwarming meal.
- Start by placing the first ten ingredients—the chicken, low sodium chicken stock, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, leeks, dried thyme, bay leaves, and kosher salt—into your slow cooker. Set it to low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. During this time, the chicken will become incredibly tender.
- About three hours in on high or five hours on low, check the soup. Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set it aside. You’ll see it’s cooked perfectly!
- Next, add in the pasta to the slow cooker, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender but not mushy. It’s essential not to overcook it, or it will turn soggy in the soup.
- While the pasta is cooking, take the time to shred the chicken. Remove the bones if there are any, and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the soup, stirring gently to incorporate it with the pasta and vegetables. This will ensure that every bowl is filled with deliciousness!
- Once everything is well mixed, let the soup cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You should be getting a waft of those amazing aromas!
- Finally, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more pepper or salt as desired.
- Once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley on top for that fresh touch.
- Serve with crackers on the side for a delightful crunch!
- Savor each bite of your hearty, homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup!
Things Worth Knowing
- Shredding Chicken: It’s easier to shred the chicken when it’s still warm. Use two forks to pull it apart, ensuring it’s in bite-sized pieces.
- Watch the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. You want it to be al dente, not mushy!
- Flavor Development: The longer you let the soup cook, the deeper the flavors will develop. Just be mindful of cooking times.
- Thickening the Soup: If you find the soup too thin, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables to thicken it up without adding extra ingredients.
Tips for Success
Making a perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is all about a few key tips. Follow these, and you’ll have a wonderful dish every time!
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion it out in freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and it can last for up to three months.
- Pairing: Serve with fresh bread or a light salad to complete your meal.
- Leftover Vegetables: If you have extra vegetables in your fridge, feel free to toss them in for added nutrition and flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for a twist on the flavor.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick, add more chicken stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup With
When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup, the options are delightful!
- Crunchy Crackers: Pair with your favorite crackers to add a satisfying crunch.
- Fresh Bread: A warm loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Green Salad: A light salad on the side adds freshness to your meal.
- Ideal for Lunch or Dinner: This soup is satisfying enough for dinner, but it also makes a great lunch option.
- Cozy Nights: Perfect for cold, wintry evenings when you want something warm and filling.
- Comfort Food for Gatherings: Serve it at family gatherings to warm the hearts of everyone around the table.
- Seasonal Treat: Enjoy it during fall and winter when hearty meals are most comforting.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, it truly embodies the essence of home cooking. I encourage you to gather your loved ones and try this recipe; you’ll find it’s a wonderful addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy the warmth and coziness it brings to your table!
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the first ten ingredients—the chicken, low sodium chicken stock, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, leeks, dried thyme, bay leaves, and kosher salt—into your slow cooker. Set it to low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. During this time, the chicken will become incredibly tender.
- About three hours in on high or five hours on low, check the soup. Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set it aside. You’ll see it’s cooked perfectly!
- Next, add in the pasta to the slow cooker, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender but not mushy. It's essential not to overcook it, or it will turn soggy in the soup.
- While the pasta is cooking, take the time to shred the chicken. Remove the bones if there are any, and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the soup, stirring gently to incorporate it with the pasta and vegetables. This will ensure that every bowl is filled with deliciousness!
- Once everything is well mixed, let the soup cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You should be getting a waft of those amazing aromas!
- Finally, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more pepper or salt as desired.
- Once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley on top for that fresh touch.
- Savor each bite of your hearty, homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup!
