There’s just something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s made in a crockpot! I mean, who doesn’t love the idea of tossing a few ingredients into a pot and letting it do all the work for you? That’s the magic of *soup crockpot recipes*! I remember my grandmother would always have a big pot of homemade chicken soup simmering away on chilly days, filling the house with the most inviting aromas. It’s simple, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, this recipe allows you to enjoy that same cozy feeling with minimal effort. Just set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken breast (boneless and skinless for best results)
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, whichever you prefer)
- 2 cups chopped vegetables (I like to use chopped carrots, chopped celery, and chopped onions for a classic flavor)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, make sure to get the kind without added sugar)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic if you’re feeling fancy!)
- 1 tsp dried thyme (this herb adds a lovely earthy flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really brings everything together)
How to Prepare Soup Crockpot Recipe
- First things first, place your chicken breast at the bottom of the crockpot. This ensures it cooks evenly and stays tender.
- Now, pour in the chicken broth. I love using homemade broth for that extra depth of flavor, but store-bought works just fine too!
- Next, add your chopped vegetables. I usually go for a mix of carrots, celery, and onions, but feel free to toss in any of your favorites. Just remember, the more colorful, the better!
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with the garlic powder and dried thyme. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really start to smell the magic happening!
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re in a rush, you can cook it on high for about 3 to 4 hours, but low and slow is the way to go for maximum flavor.
- When the time is up, carefully shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks – it should fall apart beautifully! Give everything a good stir.
- And there you have it! Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. This soup is best enjoyed warm, so grab your favorite bowl and dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work!
- Rich flavor: The long, slow cooking process melds all the ingredients beautifully.
- Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice.
- Convenience: Set it in the morning and come home to a warm, hearty meal waiting for you.
- Perfect for meal prep: This recipe makes enough for leftovers, so you can enjoy it again!
Tips for Success
To make sure your soup turns out just right, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning; taste as you go! If you like a little kick, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. When it comes to vegetables, feel free to get creative—zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach can add a delightful twist. And for serving, pairing this hearty soup with some crusty bread or a light salad makes for a complete meal. Trust me, there’s nothing like dipping that bread into the rich, flavorful broth!
Variations
The beauty of this soup is how flexible it can be! If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the chicken for turkey or even some hearty beans for a vegetarian twist. Want to switch up the flavors? Add in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving for a burst of freshness. You can also mix in some spices—cumin or paprika can give it a warm, smoky kick. And if you love a bit of heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body, right? Just remember, nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider these as estimates. Each serving of this hearty soup packs about 250 calories, with 6g of fat (including 2g saturated fat), 30g of protein, and 20g of carbohydrates. Plus, it offers 3g of fiber, which is great for digestion! And don’t forget about the sodium content—approximately 800mg per serving, so adjust that seasoning if you’re watching your salt intake. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to a wholesome meal!
FAQ Section
Can I make this soup in a regular pot instead of a crockpot?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a crockpot, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Just sauté the vegetables first, add the chicken and broth, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. Just keep an eye on it!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?
Yes! Feel free to use turkey, beef, or even plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly!
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water about 30 minutes before serving. Another option is to blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in for a creamier texture.
What other vegetables work well in this recipe?
You can really get creative with the veggies! Think about adding sweet potatoes, green beans, or even corn. The more colorful, the better your soup will look and taste!
Serving Suggestions
Pairing this delicious soup with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights! I love serving it with some warm, crusty bread—there’s just something magical about dipping that bread into the rich broth. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette is also a fantastic complement; it adds a refreshing crunch that balances the heartiness of the soup. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, try grilled cheese sandwiches! The gooey, melty cheese is a perfect match for the warm, comforting soup. Trust me, each bite will make your heart sing!
Print
Soup Crockpot Recipes: 7 Comforting Classics to Savor
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and hearty soup recipe made in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped vegetables (carrots, celery, onions)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breast in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth and chopped vegetables.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Shred chicken before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Feel free to add any other vegetables you like.
- Serve with bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: soup, crockpot, recipes, chicken soup, easy soup
