This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and delicious noodles, all simmered together for hours.
I love how easy it is to make—just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Perfect for chilly days or when you just need some comfort food! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are a bit juicier, but breasts work well too. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! Just add it near the end to warm it up.
Chicken broth: Low-sodium broth is my go-to to control the saltiness. If you want a richer flavor, try homemade broth or replace part of it with vegetable broth. For a lighter option, use reduced-sodium broth.
Egg noodles: Wide egg noodles bring a nice texture but feel free to substitute with any pasta you have on hand, like rotini or fusilli. Just remember, cooking times may vary slightly!
Vegetables: Carrots and celery are classic, but you can also add peas or green beans for extra veggies. If you prefer a stronger flavor, add some diced parsnips or potatoes as well.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
Getting that rich, deep flavor in your chicken noodle soup involves a few simple steps. Start by layering ingredients in the crockpot. The chicken really absorbs the broth flavor as it cooks!
- Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low for 6-7 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Seasoning: Don’t skip tasting the soup before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper, and if it needs a little something extra, a splash of lemon juice gives great brightness!
- Add Noodles Last: Cook the noodles separately if you prefer. This keeps them from getting mushy, and you can add them directly to individual bowls.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 ½ to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra fresh parsley for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz egg noodles or any favorite pasta (wide egg noodles preferred)
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus you’ll need to let it cook in the crockpot for between 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day—just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the crockpot. This helps them cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
2. Layer the Veggies:
Now, add the sliced carrots, celery, and diced onion right on top of the chicken. The more veggies, the more flavor! Sprinkle in the minced garlic for that aromatic touch.
3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the dried thyme, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. If you’re using a bay leaf, add that too. This is where the magic begins!
4. Slow Cook the Soup:
Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked (no pink inside) and the veggies are tender.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. It should come apart easily!
6. Add Noodles:
Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot. Now add the egg noodles and give everything a good stir. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the noodles are nice and tender.
7. Final Touch:
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. It’s all about flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup!
This recipe yields a flavorful, heartwarming soup that’s perfect for any day. Grab a spoon and dig in!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just keep in mind that it may take a little longer to cook. Make sure to check that the chicken is fully cooked before shredding it. Also, consider increasing the cooking time by about 30 minutes to an hour depending on your crockpot.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or use the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens up in the fridge.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup, let it cool completely, and then refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently, as mentioned before, and enjoy a quick meal on busy nights!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For a flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. Additionally, a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can add depth. Customize it to your liking!
