Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Crave a cozy, comforting meal that practically cooks itself? This slow cooker chicken noodle soup is the answer.
It’s packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, making it the ultimate comfort food.
Toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and wait a few hours for a delicious and satisfying soup that will warm you from the inside out.
Let the slow cooker do all the work for you!
Origins
Tracing back the origins of slow cooker chicken noodle soup leads to its history and cultural roots.
This hearty dish has been enjoyed in many homes for generations, and is believed to have originated in North America, where it was influenced by different immigrant cuisines.
Slow cooking, which involves simmering ingredients for an extended period of time, is known to have been practiced by ancient civilizations.
The combination of chicken, noodles, and vegetables in a flavorful broth is a distinctively American recipe.
This soup gained popularity during the Great Depression, as it provided an economical and satisfying meal for families.
Nowadays, slow cooker chicken noodle soup continues to be a cherished comfort food, bringing warmth and sustenance to people all over.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
-2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
-1 onion, diced
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-5 carrots, peeled and diced
-3 stalks celery, diced
-6 cups chicken broth
-1 teaspoon dried thyme
-1 teaspoon dried oregano
-1 bay leaf
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1/4 teaspoon black pepper
-1 cup uncooked egg noodles
-1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Start by putting the chicken breasts, chicken broth, and diced carrots into the slow cooker. This will form the foundation of your chicken noodle soup.
Afterwards, add the diced celery, minced garlic, and chopped onion for added flavor.
Set the slow cooker to low and let the ingredients simmer for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once done, take out the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
Put back the shredded chicken in the slow cooker and stir in the egg noodles.
Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are soft.
Finally, season the soup with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices of your preference.
Dig into your homemade chicken noodle soup!
Pro Tips
For an extra flavorful chicken noodle soup, try adding a pinch of thyme or a squeeze of lemon juice to the slow cooker. These simple additions can elevate the taste and create a more delicious soup. Here are some tips to make your slow cooker chicken noodle soup even better:
| Pro Tip 1 | Pro Tip 2 | Pro Tip 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Use homemade chicken broth | Include diced celery for texture | Top with fresh parsley before serving |
Using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought can add a unique flavor that can’t be replicated. Adding diced celery provides a crunchy texture to the soup. Topping the soup with fresh parsley before serving adds a pop of freshness. With these tips, you can impress your family and friends with a bowl of comforting and flavorful chicken noodle soup.
Final Thoughts
Wrap up your slow cooker chicken noodle soup experience with some final thoughts.
After hours of simmering, your kitchen is filled with the comforting aroma of homemade soup. The tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and hearty noodles come together to make a delicious meal.
The slow cooker makes it easy to whip up this classic dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The broth is full of flavor, with the perfect blend of herbs and spices.
The leftovers can be enjoyed for days, allowing the flavors to deepen further. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply want a warm and cozy meal, this slow cooker chicken noodle soup is sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta in the Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can use a different type of pasta in the slow cooker chicken noodle soup recipe. Bear in mind that different pastas may require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.
How Long Will the Leftovers Last in the Refrigerator?
Leftovers can typically stay in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure to reheat them before eating and throw out any food that has been left out for over two hours.
Can I Freeze the Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup for Later?
Yes, you can freeze the slow cooker chicken noodle soup for later. To ensure its freshness and prolong its shelf life, it’s important to store it properly in airtight containers or freezer bags. Following these easy steps will help keep your soup delicious and ready to enjoy at a later time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to the soup. Carrots, celery, and onions are great choices. Just chop them up and put them in the slow cooker alongside the chicken and noodles.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. The dark meat will add a more intense flavor and will remain moist during the slow cooking process. Enjoy!
