This Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or a quick dinner solution that the whole family will love, this recipe has you covered. With minimal effort, you can create a hearty and flavorful soup that rivals any restaurant version. Plus, making it at home means you can control the ingredients, ensuring it’s both delicious and healthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Simply toss your ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work while you go about your day.
- Packed with Flavor: Fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs create a rich, satisfying taste that warms the soul.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or served alongside crusty bread or salad, it fits any dining occasion.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with whole foods, this soup is free from preservatives and fillers found in canned versions.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential kitchen tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker (6 quart or larger)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking; just set it and forget it for hours of delicious simmering.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring easy cleanup.
- Sharp knife: Makes cutting through chicken and vegetables effortless, saving time during prep.
Ingredients
This crockpot chicken noodle soup is hearty and comforting, yet incredibly easy to make! No need for a can full of preservatives, homemade is the best!
For the Soup Base
- 1 – 1 1/2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 med to large yellow onion, diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into circles
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary leaves
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Broth and Noodles
- 2 tsp better than bouillon base, chicken flavor
- 8 – 9 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz. egg noodles (wide or extra wide) (** see chef tip #1 below)
Garnish
- fresh parsley, minced (for garnish)
- salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by placing the trimmed chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add in your diced onion, sliced carrots, celery pieces, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, kosher salt, black pepper, and bay leaf if you’re using one.
Step 2: Add Broth and Bouillon
Dollop the better than bouillon chicken base over the top of your ingredients. Then pour in the reduced sodium chicken broth. Gently stir everything to combine well. Cover your slow cooker with its lid.
Step 3: Cook It Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place it in a large mixing bowl and shred it using two forks. Discard the bay leaf if you added one earlier.
Step 5: Add Egg Noodles
Return the shredded chicken back to your slow cooker. Stir in egg noodles until well combined. Cover again and cook on LOW for an additional 10-15 minutes until pasta is tender. Taste before serving; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve Your Soup
Ladle your delicious homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh minced parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy!
How to Serve Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Serving homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup is a delightful experience, as it offers warmth and comfort. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the soup in a large bowl, garnished with fresh parsley for color and flavor.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread or a soft roll to soak up the delicious broth.
Side Salad
- A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup and adds freshness.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- A classic grilled cheese sandwich makes for a satisfying side that kids and adults love alike.
With Crackers
- Offer a side of whole-grain crackers for an easy, crunchy accompaniment that adds texture.
In a Bread Bowl
- For a fun twist, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an impressive presentation.
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How to Perfect Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
To ensure your homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken broth greatly enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste before serving; you might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
- Shred Chicken Properly – Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding; this will make it easier and prevent burns.
- Avoid Overcooking Noodles – Add egg noodles towards the end of cooking to avoid mushiness; they should be tender but firm.
- Store Leftovers Wisely – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Pairing side dishes with your homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread – This buttery delight is perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with parmesan and croutons makes for a refreshing contrast.
- Stuffed Peppers – These hearty additions provide protein and veggies alongside your soup.
- Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the softness of the soup.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can bring a refreshing bite to balance out the warmth of the chicken noodle soup.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins are delightful when served warm alongside your comforting bowl of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are mistakes to avoid:
- Using frozen chicken: Frozen chicken may not cook evenly and could lead to unsafe temperatures. Always use thawed, fresh chicken for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough herbs and spices will make your soup bland. Be sure to include thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper for full flavor.
- Overcooking the noodles: If cooked too long, egg noodles can become mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking for the perfect texture.
- Neglecting to taste: Failing to taste before serving can lead to unbalanced flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can spoil your soup quickly. Make sure to follow proper refrigeration and freezing techniques.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover; heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup different from store-bought?
Homemade versions allow you to control ingredients and flavors, avoiding preservatives found in many canned soups.
How long does it take to cook Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Cooking on LOW takes about 6-8 hours, while cooking on HIGH takes around 3-4 hours.
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with other pasta types like rotini or fusilli, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free noodles and ensure your broth is gluten-free as well.
How do I customize my Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
You can add vegetables like peas or corn, or even switch up the protein with turkey or beef for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for busy days when you crave something hearty without much effort. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Experience the warmth and comfort of Homemade Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, an easy and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy a hearty bowl of this classic dish that rivals restaurant-quality soup. Utilizing fresh ingredients, this recipe allows you to control flavors and nutrition, making it a wholesome choice for family dinners or meal prep. Allow your slow cooker to do the heavy lifting while you savor the aromatic blend of chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles. This cozy soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 – 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium to large yellow onion, diced
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 – 9 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions
- Place chicken in the slow cooker. Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon better than bouillon over the top and pour in chicken broth. Stir gently.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred chicken using two forks and return it to the pot.
- Stir in egg noodles and cook on LOW for an additional 10-15 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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