Nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup crock pot recipe on a chilly day. This slow-cooked classic is packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, making it a staple comfort food. Using a crock pot simplifies the process, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while you go about your day. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving a homemade meal, this chicken noodle soup crock pot recipe is the perfect solution.
The beauty of using a crock pot for this dish is that it requires minimal effort. Simply prepare your ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and let time do the work. The slow cooking process helps develop deep, rich flavors that you can’t achieve with a quick stovetop method. Plus, the aroma that fills your home while this soup simmers is irresistible.
Table of contents
Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Gather the following ingredients to prepare a delicious and hearty soup:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs for extra flavor)
- 8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
If you love extra richness in your broth, consider adding a chicken bouillon cube or a splash of heavy cream for a slightly creamy texture.
Instructions: How to Make Chicken Noodle Soup in a Crock Pot
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling and slicing the carrots, dicing the celery and onion, and mincing the garlic. These fresh vegetables will add depth and heartiness to your soup. If you want to add more vegetables, consider mushrooms, zucchini, or even a handful of spinach at the end for extra nutrition.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Add the sliced carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged.
Step 3: Season the Soup
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, parsley, black pepper, and salt. Drop in the bay leaf to enhance the depth of flavor as the soup simmers. If you like a touch of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat to the broth.
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Step 4: Slow Cook the Soup
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking method allows the chicken to become tender and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
If you’re cooking on low, you can let it simmer for up to 10 hours for an even deeper flavor. Just be sure to check the broth level and add a bit more if needed.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the soup. Shredding the chicken helps it distribute evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with tender meat.
Step 6: Add the Noodles
About 20 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles to the crock pot. Stir gently and let them cook until tender. Avoid overcooking the noodles as they can become mushy if left in too long. If you’re meal-prepping, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them just before serving.
Step 7: Final Touches
For an extra layer of flavor, squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch. You can also sprinkle a bit of parmesan cheese on top for a delightful, cheesy twist.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Pair it with warm bread or crackers for an even more satisfying meal. This soup also pairs well with a side salad for a well-rounded, healthy meal.
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Additional Tips for Perfect Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe
- Substituting Chicken: If you prefer dark meat, swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer taste.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles or swap noodles for rice.
- Thicker Broth: Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) if you prefer a thicker soup.
- Make-Ahead & Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave. Freeze the soup without noodles for up to 3 months, adding freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
- Extra Protein: For a heartier version, add cooked beans like white beans or chickpeas.
FAQs About Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Can I put raw chicken in a crock pot?
Yes, raw chicken can go directly into a crock pot. The slow cooking process ensures it reaches a safe temperature and becomes tender while infusing the broth with rich flavor.
Can I put uncooked noodles in my chicken soup?
Yes, but it’s best to add them towards the end of cooking. If left too long, noodles can become overly soft and absorb too much liquid.
Can you cook raw noodles in a crock pot?
Yes, raw noodles can be added directly to the crock pot during the last 20 minutes of cooking. They will soften as they absorb the broth, but be careful not to overcook them.
How long can you leave chicken soup in a crock pot?
Chicken soup can stay in a crock pot on the “keep warm” setting for up to 4 hours after cooking. However, for food safety, it’s best to store leftovers in the fridge within 2 hours of turning off the heat.
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What soup is good for strep throat?
Chicken noodle soup is excellent for strep throat as it provides hydration, warmth, and essential nutrients to help soothe the throat and boost recovery. The warm broth helps with congestion and sore throat relief.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use an Instant Pot. Cook the soup on high pressure for 12 minutes, then do a quick release, shred the chicken, and add the noodles using the sauté function until tender.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use an Instant Pot. Cook the soup on high pressure for 12 minutes, then do a quick release, shred the chicken, and add the noodles using the sauté function until tender.
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Conclusion
This chicken noodle soup crock pot recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves warm, comforting meals. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal effort, and delivers rich, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or as a remedy for cold weather, this slow-cooked classic is sure to impress. Try it today and let us know how it turned out!