Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chunks of chicken mingling with perfectly cooked egg noodles, sweet carrots, and celery all swimming in a rich, savory broth infused with garlic and herbs. This recipe turns humble ingredients into a soul-soothing meal, making it effortless to whip up a classic favorite with minimal hands-on time. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want a cozy dinner, this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup hits the spot every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is how straightforward the ingredients are, each one bringing its own charm to the pot. From the sweetness of the carrots to the depth of the chicken broth, these essentials create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that make the soup truly shine.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking.
• 6 cups chicken broth: The flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together with warmth and richness.
• 2 carrots, sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a bit of color to brighten every spoonful.
• 2 celery stalks, sliced: Lends a subtle crunch and depth of flavor to the broth.
• 1 onion, diced: For that aromatic foundation that makes the soup irresistible.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: A punch of savory warmth that lifts the whole dish.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: Brings an earthy herbal note that complements the chicken beautifully.
• 1 tsp dried parsley: Freshness and subtle herbiness to brighten the flavors.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
• 2 cups egg noodles: Soft and slurp-worthy, adding heartiness to the soup.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: A burst of green color and fresh flavor at serving time.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and slicing the carrots and celery, dicing the onion, and mincing the garlic cloves. This prep work ensures everything is ready to go into the crockpot, setting you up for an easy, hands-off cooking experience.

Step 2: Layer the Veggies and Chicken

Place the sliced carrots, celery, diced onion, and minced garlic in the bottom of your crockpot. Nestle the whole chicken breasts on top—this layering helps the chicken stay juicy while the vegetables soften and release their flavors slowly.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the crockpot. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, and add salt and pepper according to your taste. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors before closing the lid. Now, it’s time to relax and let the magic happen.

Step 4: Slow Cook and Shred the Chicken

Set your crockpot to low and cook the soup for about 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Once the chicken is tender and cooked through, remove it from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring it in so it can soak up the flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Egg Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the crockpot about 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This timing ensures the noodles cook perfectly without becoming mushy, giving you that ideal tender bite every time.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Garnishes

Finishing your soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant splash of green that’s as inviting as it is tasty. For an extra touch, consider a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the broth just before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup with a slice of crusty bread or warm crackers to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the soup’s savory richness beautifully, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun, rustic twist that adds another layer of texture and flavor. For a heartier meal, ladle the soup over cooked rice or add a handful of greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the soup, but it’s best to leave the noodles out and add them fresh when reheating to avoid mushiness. Freeze the broth, chicken, and vegetables in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh noodles.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add fresh cooked or uncooked noodles at this stage, cooking them directly in the soup until tender. This method keeps the noodles perfectly textured and the soup tasting fresh.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and stay juicy during the slow cooking process. Just expect a slightly different texture but equally delicious results.

Is it possible to make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function for the veggies and then pressure cooking for about 15 minutes. Be sure to add the noodles at the end and use the keep-warm setting to cook them perfectly.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting soggy?

The best tip is to add the egg noodles towards the end of cooking, about 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This keeps them tender but not mushy, maintaining the ideal noodle texture.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Definitely! While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as rotini or shells. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to keep them al dente.

Can I make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup vegetarian?

You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken and chicken broth with hearty mushrooms and vegetable broth. Add tofu or beans for protein, and cook as usual for a satisfying meatless option.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, and this recipe makes it so easy to enjoy that cozy feeling anytime you want. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor simple flavors, and enjoy a little homemade love in every bite. Give it a try soon — your soul (and taste buds) will be so happy you did.

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