A very zoomed-in photo of a steaming bowl of homemade chicken soup with shredded chicken, diced vegetables, and fresh parsley in a golden broth.

Chicken Soup Crock Pot – Easy & Flavorful Slow Cooker Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and easy meal, this Crockpot Chicken Soup is the perfect choice. Packed with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a flavorful broth, this recipe is ideal for chilly days or when you need a nourishing dish.

Why Make Chicken Soup in a Crock Pot?

Using a slow cooker to make chicken soup has several advantages:

  1. Convenience: Just toss in the ingredients and let the crock pot do the work.
  2. Flavor Development: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  3. Tender Chicken: The low and slow cooking method ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender.
  4. Minimal Supervision: Unlike stovetop cooking, a crock pot doesn’t require constant stirring or monitoring. for more easy slow cooker meals, check out our Easy Crockpot Meals guide!

Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken Soup

To make a classic chicken soup, you’ll need:

  • Chicken: 2-3 bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or a whole chicken for extra flavor)
  • Vegetables: 3 carrots (sliced), 2 celery stalks (sliced), 1 onion (chopped), and 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • Broth & Seasonings: 8 cups chicken broth, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1 bay leaf
  • Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
  • Optional Add-ins: Noodles, rice, or potatoes for extra heartiness
A zoomed-in shot of freshly chopped carrots, celery, onions, and minced garlic on a wooden cutting board.
Freshly chopped ingredients, ready to be added to the crock pot for a delicious homemade chicken soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Prep the Ingredients

  • Wash and chop all vegetables.
  • If using a whole chicken, remove any excess fat and rinse it under cold water.
  • Mince the garlic and set it aside.

If you love comforting dishes, check out our delicious Chicken Casserole Recipes.

2: Layer the Ingredients

  • Place the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic at the bottom of the crock pot.
  • Add the chicken on top.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, and add the seasonings and bay leaf.

3: Cook the Soup

  • Low Setting: Cook for 6-8 hours.
  • High Setting: Cook for 3-4 hours.

Cooking on low heat is ideal as it allows the flavors to develop gradually and makes the chicken extra tender.

4: Shred the Chicken

  • After the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken from the crock pot.
  • Shred it with two forks and discard the bones.
  • Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to combine.

Looking for more comforting recipes? Try our Baked Chicken Recipes for more meal inspiration.

5: Final Touches

  • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  • Add fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
  • If using noodles or rice, cook them separately and add them to individual bowls before serving.
A close-up of freshly shredded chicken, highlighting its tender and moist texture.
Perfectly shredded chicken, ready to be added to the soup for a rich and hearty texture.

Tips for the Best Crock Pot Chicken Soup

  • Use Bone-In Chicken: This adds depth of flavor to the broth.
  • Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook pasta or rice separately to avoid them becoming mushy.
  • Remove Excess Fat: Skim off any fat that rises to the surface for a cleaner broth.
  • Customize Your Soup: Add corn, peas, or even a squeeze of lemon for variation.

Variations of Chicken Soup

1. Creamy Chicken Soup

For a richer version, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.

2. Spicy Chicken Soup

For a kick of heat, add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño.

3. Lemon Chicken Soup

Stir in the juice of one fresh lemon and some zest for a bright, refreshing flavor.

4. Chicken Tortilla Soup

Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired twist. Serve with tortilla strips.

5. Keto & Low-Carb Chicken Soup

Skip the noodles and add extra veggies like zucchini and spinach for a low-carb option.How to Store and Reheat Chicken Soup

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Chicken soup made in a crock pot is an effortless and rewarding dish that brings comfort to any meal. Whether you prefer it classic, creamy, spicy, or with a twist, this recipe is highly adaptable to suit your taste. Try it today and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of homemade goodness! enjoying your Chicken Soup Crock Pot.

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