Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

INTRODUCTION

Slow cooker chicken noodle soup is a warm and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. This comforting soup is not only easy to make, but it also fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re under the weather or just looking for a satisfying meal, this soup is a wonderful choice.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love slow cooker chicken noodle soup. First, it requires little prep time. You can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Secondly, the flavors blend together beautifully, making each bowl taste like a warm hug. It is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables or chicken you have at home. Plus, this recipe is easily scalable, allowing you to make enough for a small dinner or a large gathering. Last but not least, it’s a wholesome meal that can heat your soul, making it great for family dinners or cozy nights in.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Making slow cooker chicken noodle soup is simple and straightforward. Just follow these easy steps.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this soup, you will need the following equipment:

• A slow cooker
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A mixing spoon

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 5 medium carrots, peeled and chopped fairly thin
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 stalks celery, chopped fairly thin
• 3 – 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 3/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary, crushed
• 1/2 tsp dried sage (optional)
• 1/4 tsp celery seed, finely crushed
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups uncooked wide egg noodles
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Saltine crackers or parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. To a slow cooker, add the chicken (left whole), diced carrots, onion, celery, and garlic.
2. Add in the olive oil, chicken broth, and water.
3. Sprinkle in the thyme, rosemary, celery seed, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 – 7 hours.
5. After cooking, remove the chicken and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Then, dice it into bite-sized pieces.
6. While the chicken is resting, add the egg noodles and parsley to the slow cooker.
7. Increase the temperature to high, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
8. Stir in the lemon juice and add the cooked, diced chicken back into the soup.
9. Serve warm with saltine crackers or top with parmesan cheese if desired.

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HOW TO SERVE Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Slow cooker chicken noodle soup is best served hot. You can ladle it into bowls and offer saltine crackers or parmesan cheese on the side. Some people love to add a splash of hot sauce or sprinkle some extra herbs for added flavor. It pairs nicely with a side of bread for dipping. This soup also works well for meal prep. You can pack it in containers for lunches throughout the week.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

This soup stores well in the refrigerator. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to freeze the soup, it is best to do so without the noodles. Cooked noodles can become mushy when frozen. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth to help revive the soup’s consistency.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

You can serve slow cooker chicken noodle soup as a main dish or as a starter. It goes well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or buttery rolls. For a refreshing twist, you can offer a lemon wedge to squeeze into the soup before eating. This gives a fresh zing that complements the chicken perfectly.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to customize slow cooker chicken noodle soup. Here are a few variations:

• Vegetable Additions: You can add other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for added nutrition and color.
• Protein Options: If you prefer, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken. Just add it later in the cooking process to heat through.
• Whole Grain Noodles: Substitute regular egg noodles with whole grain or gluten-free noodles for healthier or allergy-friendly options.
• Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of cayenne gives it a bit of heat, while fresh herbs like thyme or dill can enhance the flavor.

FAQs

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1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure it’s fully cooked.

2. Is it okay to leave out the garlic?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of garlic, you can omit it. The soup will still be wonderful without it.

3. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth will make the soup vegetarian. Just adjust the seasonings as needed for taste.

4. How can I make the soup thicker?
If you like a thicker soup, you can mix some cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

To make your cooking experience easier, you can prepare some of the ingredients in advance. Chop the vegetables a day before and store them in the refrigerator. You can even assemble everything in the slow cooker insert and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just set it to cook. You can have a delicious meal waiting for you when you come back home—all without spending hours in the kitchen!

This slow cooker chicken noodle soup recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. With minimal effort and delightful flavors, it’s a perfect dish to warm you up and bring comfort to your dinner table. Enjoy!

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