This cozy slow cooker chicken noodle soup is perfect for chilly days! Tender chicken, tasty noodles, and fresh veggies come together in a warm and hearty bowl.
It’s so easy to make; I just toss everything in and let the magic happen! Great for when I’m feeling lazy but still want something comforting. Plus, it makes my home smell amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are convenient and cook nicely in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is great for controlling the saltiness. You can also use homemade broth if you have it on hand or swap it for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Carrots and Celery: Fresh veggies add delicious flavor. If you don’t have fresh carrots, frozen can work too. You can also add other veggies like peas or green beans for variety!
Egg Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, any pasta like rotini or fusilli will work. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta instead.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary give depth to the soup. If you have fresh herbs, use them for a burst of flavor. You can substitute with Italian seasoning if you’re in a pinch!
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken can seem tricky, but it’s simple if you follow these steps:
- After cooking, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and let them cool slightly for a few minutes.
- Using two forks, pull apart the chicken into shreds. For quicker shredding, try using a hand mixer on low speed—this works wonders!
- Once shredded, return the chicken to the soup for a great texture and flavor.
Enjoy making this chicken noodle soup! It’s sure to be a hit, especially on those chilly days.
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 sprig fresh rosemary)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Final Touches:
- 8 ounces egg noodles or wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of active prep time, followed by cooking time of 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. It makes a cozy dish perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This will let them absorb all the wonderful flavors as they cook!
2. Add the Broth and Veggies:
Pour in the chicken broth to cover the chicken. Then, add your sliced carrots, celery, diced onion, and minced garlic right on top. These will add great flavor and texture to the soup.
3. Season It Up:
Now, toss in the dried thyme, dried rosemary or fresh sprig, bay leaves, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
4. Slow Cook Away:
Put the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook. If you’re on low, it’ll take about 6 to 7 hours. If you choose high, it should take about 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and the veggies soft when it’s done!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once it’s cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts and bay leaves from the pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces—it’s super easy!
6. Finish the Soup:
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and add the egg noodles. Cook on high for another 15-20 minutes until the noodles are tender.
7. Add Fresh Parsley:
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a nice pop of flavor. Taste the soup and adjust with more salt and pepper if you like.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your warm, comforting soup into bowls. If you want, garnish with extra fresh parsley for a lovely presentation!
Enjoy your homemade slow cooker chicken noodle soup! It’s the perfect dish to warm you up and soothe your soul.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by about an hour when using frozen chicken breasts. The chicken will cook through without any issues, and you’ll get tender results!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it. If you plan to freeze it, it’s best to add the noodles fresh when reheating, as they can become mushy after freezing.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to mix in other veggies like peas, corn, or even spinach! Just remember to add quicker-cooking vegetables like peas towards the end of the cooking time to avoid them getting too soft.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a bit of broth if needed to loosen the soup!
