There’s nothing quite like the cozy embrace of a warm bowl of homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup. Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl! I remember rainy afternoons spent in my kitchen, the aroma of simmering chicken and herbs wafting through the house, drawing my family in from the cold. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a memory-maker. The best part? It’s so simple to whip up! Just toss everything into the crockpot, and let it do all the hard work while you kick back and relax. Trust me, on busy days when I need comfort food that doesn’t require a lot of fuss, this recipe is my go-to. You’ll find that every spoonful is not only delicious but also filled with love and warmth, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying all on your own. So, let’s dive into this easy and delightful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients for Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Gather these simple ingredients to create a comforting bowl of homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup. You’ll find that it’s not only delicious but also easy to source!
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups egg noodles
(Tip: You can always adjust the veggie quantities to your liking or even throw in some of your favorites!)
How to Prepare Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Now, let’s get into the heart of this recipe! Making homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup is as easy as 1-2-3, and I promise you’ll love how straightforward it is. Just follow these steps, and soon enough, you’ll have a comforting soup ready to warm your soul!
- First things first, place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts right into the bottom of the crockpot. Make sure they’re spread out a bit so they can soak up all those delicious flavors!
- Now, it’s time to add in the good stuff! Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, then toss in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sprinkle the dried thyme, dried parsley, and black pepper on top. Oh, the smell is already heavenly!
- Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This is where the magic happens! Just let it cook and fill your home with that amazing aroma.
- When the chicken is cooked through and tender, carefully remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step is my favorite because it’s so satisfying!
- Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot. Now, add the 2 cups of egg noodles and give everything a good stir. Let it cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until those noodles are perfectly tender.
- Give it one last stir, and bam! Your homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup is ready to serve hot. Enjoy it with some crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that extra touch!
(Tip: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as it cooks! Sometimes a little extra pepper or a pinch of salt can elevate the flavors even more.)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super quick prep time—just 15 minutes and you’re all set!
- Comforting flavors that remind you of home and family gatherings.
- Healthy ingredients that are nourishing and satisfying.
- One-pot convenience means less cleanup—yay for that!
- Perfect for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day!
- Customizable—feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs.
- Kid-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Great for chilly nights when you need something warm and hearty.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail this homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup! Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out just perfect every time:
- Season to Taste: Don’t hesitate to taste your soup as it cooks! Sometimes I find it needs a little extra kick, so I’ll add a dash more pepper or a sprinkle of salt. You can always adjust according to your taste buds!
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, you can totally use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. Just shred it and toss it in during the last 30 minutes. It saves time and adds amazing flavor!
- Play with Veggies: Feel free to mix it up with different veggies! Zucchini, peas, or even some spinach can add a nice touch. Just chop them up and throw them in with the other ingredients.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep an eye on those egg noodles! They can get mushy if they’re left in for too long. I usually set a timer for that last 30 minutes and check their doneness a few minutes before.
- Garnish for Extra Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving can elevate the flavors. Plus, it makes your soup look even more inviting!
With these tips, you’re all set to create a delicious bowl of comfort that your family will rave about. Enjoy every spoonful!
Variations of Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up your homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup! Here are some ideas that will keep your taste buds dancing and your family guessing what delicious twist you’ve added this time:
- Different Veggies: Switch up the veggies based on what you have or what’s in season! Try adding some diced potatoes for a heartier soup, or throw in fresh spinach or kale at the end for a nutritious boost.
- Herb Infusion: If you want a fresh twist, consider adding a sprig of rosemary or a bay leaf while it cooks. Just remember to remove them before serving! These herbs can add a lovely depth of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Love a little heat? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a spicy version. It’s a great way to warm you up even more on those chilly nights!
- Asian Flair: For a different direction, add some soy sauce and ginger, and swap the egg noodles for rice noodles or even cooked rice. You’ll have a delightful Asian-inspired chicken soup!
- Creamy Version: If you’re craving something creamy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese just before serving. It adds a luxurious richness that’s oh-so-comforting!
Feel free to experiment and make this soup your own! Trust me, each variation is a new adventure in flavor that you and your loved ones will enjoy. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve made this delicious homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup, you might be wondering how to store those tasty leftovers. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
First things first, let the soup cool down a bit before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors intact and prevents that pesky condensation from forming. You can store your soup in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when to enjoy it by!
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just divide it into portions—this way, you can grab a single serving whenever you’re in the mood for a warm, comforting bowl!
When it’s time to reheat, you have a couple of options. If you’re using the microwave, just heat it up in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely with a paper towel to prevent splatters. Stir it every minute or so until it’s heated through to your liking.
If you prefer stovetop reheating, pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and let it warm up gently. Just remember, if you’ve frozen the soup, it’s best to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure even warming.
And voilà! You’ve got a comforting bowl of homemade goodness ready to enjoy again. Trust me, it tastes just as good (if not better!) the next day. Enjoy every spoonful!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s in your comforting bowl of homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup? Here’s a typical breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup). Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portions:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 18g
This soup is not just delicious; it’s also a nutritious option that’s low in fat and high in protein, making it a great choice for a wholesome meal. Enjoy every spoonful knowing it’s filled with goodness!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts directly in the crockpot. Just keep in mind that you may need to increase the cooking time by about an hour. The soup will still turn out delicious and comforting!
What if I don’t have egg noodles?
No worries! You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different pastas may require slightly different cooking times.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup is perfect for making ahead. You can cook it the day before and let the flavors meld together overnight in the fridge. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to enjoy.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta. Just check the labels to ensure all your other ingredients are gluten-free, and you’ll be all set!
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies like peas, corn, or even kale. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add heartier vegetables like potatoes. It’s all about making it your own!
Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup: 5 Comforting Steps
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish that warms you up.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups egg noodles
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the pot.
- Add egg noodles and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high.
- Stir and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup
