Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a beloved comfort food that warms the soul on chilly days. Its amazing combination of broth, tender chicken, and hearty noodles creates a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have the time to spend hours in the kitchen. Simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work for you.
If you’ve never tried making chicken noodle soup in a crockpot, you’re in for a treat! The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite rich and flavorful. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, need a quick meal prep, or want to impress your family with a homemade dish, this soup is an essential recipe to have in your collection. In this article, we will explore why this Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a must-try, along with its preparation and cooking time, ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with heartwarming flavors. Here are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
1. Effortless Preparation – Toss all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day.
2. Comforting Flavors – The combination of chicken, vegetables, and broth creates a wonderful medley that is both soothing and satisfying.
3. Healthy Ingredients – Packed with protein and vitamins from vegetables, this soup is a nutritious option for any meal.
4. Versatile Adaptations – Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste.
5. Budget-Friendly – Using simple, affordable ingredients makes this soup a great choice for meal planning and budgeting.
6. Freezer Friendly – Make a large batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal option on busy days.
With these reasons in mind, there’s no doubt why Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a favorite among families and soup lovers alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup doesn’t take much time, yet it yields incredible results. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
– Total Time: Approximately 6-8 hours (depending on your cooking method)
These times can slightly vary based on the crockpot you’re using and your prep speed, but this framework will give you a general idea of what to expect.

Ingredients

– 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups egg noodles
– 2 cups carrots, sliced
– 1 cup celery, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups spinach or kale (optional)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to create a hearty meal that everyone will love:
1. Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or add a liner for easy clean-up.
2. Add Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Add Vegetables: Layer the sliced carrots, celery, and chopped onion over the chicken.
4. Add Garlic: Sprinkle the minced garlic over the vegetables.
5. Pour Broth: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are fully submerged.
6. Season: Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine.
7. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks.
9. Add Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and let them cook in the broth for about 10-15 minutes or until tender.
10. Return Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the crockpot, and stir to combine.
11. Optional Greens: If using, stir in the spinach or kale and let it wilt for a couple of minutes.
12. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.

How to Serve

To make the most of your Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, consider the following serving tips:
1. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Bread Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or toasted baguette for dipping. This adds an extra layer of comfort to your meal.
3. Bowls: Use deep bowls to serve the soup, allowing everyone to enjoy the broth and ingredients fully.
4. Meal Preparation: This soup freezes well, so consider making a double batch for meal prep. Store portions in airtight containers for future lunches or dinners.
With these tips, you’ll create a cozy atmosphere around the dinner table, making your Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup a culinary highlight. Enjoy your hearty serving, as each spoonful brings the essence of home-cooked goodness!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs brings vibrant flavors and nutrients to your soup.
– Season Gradually: Start with the recommended seasoning but taste and adjust as the soup cooks to enhance the overall flavor.
– Sauté Aromatics: For an even richer flavor, consider sautéing garlic and onion before adding them to the crockpot.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to explore these variations of Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup:
1. Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a rich, creamy texture.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
3. Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to introduce some heat to your soup.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Leftover Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing: This soup freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment

For the best results in preparing this soup, you will need:
– Crockpot or slow cooker
– Cutting board and knife
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Mixing spoon for stirring
– Tongs or forks for shredding chicken

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in the soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, ensure to adjust the cooking time, as frozen chicken may require a longer cooking duration.
What can I do if my soup is too salty?
If your soup turns out too salty, you can add more low-sodium broth or water to dilute the saltiness.
Is it necessary to peel the carrots and celery?
Peeling is not necessary. Just wash them thoroughly before adding them to the soup for added texture.
Can I add other types of noodles?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of noodles, such as rotini or whole wheat pasta since they offer a delightful twist.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance. Prepare it a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld nicely.

Conclusion

Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bowl. Its simple preparation, rich flavors, and nutritious ingredients make it a delightful choice for any occasion. Whether you’ve had a busy day or need a quick meal solution, this soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the process of making it as much as you enjoy the delicious results!