Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Introduction

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when it’s been simmering in the slow cooker all day. Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a hearty, wholesome, and classic dish made with tender chicken, nourishing vegetables, aromatic herbs, and egg noodles that soak up all the flavors. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights, when you’re feeling under the weather, or simply when you want a cozy family dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is stress-free yet packed with flavor. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, slowly melding together the chicken, vegetables, and herbs into a rich broth that tastes like it’s been cooked all day — because it has! I especially love how the noodles absorb the savory broth, making every bite heartwarming. Plus, this recipe is easy to customize depending on what you have on hand.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Classic comfort food: Perfect for colds, cozy nights, or family meals.
• Nutritious & filling: A balance of protein, carbs, and veggies.
• Effortless cooking: Minimal prep and the crockpot does the rest.
• Crowd-pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
• Servings: 6–8 bowls
• Calories: ~310 calories per serving

Course: Main Course / Soup
Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups egg noodles (wide)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Cooking Directions

1. Add ingredients to crockpot: Place chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, bay leaves, and broth into the crockpot.
2. Cook:
   • On low for 6–7 hours
   • Or on high for 3–4 hours
3. Remove chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.
4. Cook noodles: Add egg noodles to the crockpot and cook for 20–25 minutes on high until tender.
5. Return chicken: Stir shredded chicken back into the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and add a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Spray crockpot with nonstick spray or add olive oil/butter.
2. Place chicken, vegetables, garlic, herbs, and broth into crockpot.
3. Cover and cook until chicken is tender.
4. Remove chicken and shred it.
5. Add noodles to the soup, cover, and cook until soft.
6. Stir chicken back in and season to taste.
7. Garnish and serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with crusty bread, garlic bread, or biscuits.
• Add a small green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with grilled cheese sandwiches for a hearty combo.

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
• Cook noodles separately if you plan on storing leftovers (prevents mushiness).
• Add a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar at the end to brighten flavors.
• Skim off excess fat before serving for a lighter broth.

Variations

• Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk at the end.
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herbal Twist: Try rosemary or dill instead of thyme/parsley.
• Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Best if frozen without noodles. Freeze chicken and broth with vegetables for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot / Slow Cooker
• Cutting board and knife
• Ladle and mixing spoon
• Forks for shredding chicken

FAQ

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Add shredded rotisserie chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking instead of raw chicken.

Q2: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes — swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth.

Q3: Do the noodles get mushy in the crockpot?
They can if left too long. Add them only in the last 20–25 minutes of cooking.

Q4: Can I thicken the broth?
Yes — add 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with water for a slightly thicker consistency.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless, soothing, and nourishing meal that’s perfect for busy families and cozy nights. It’s hearty enough to stand alone as a main dish, yet light enough to be enjoyed any time of year. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a go-to comfort food in your home. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, craving a warm meal, or just want something simple and wholesome, this soup will always deliver.