Chicken noodle soup—the ultimate comfort food. Warm, soothing, and packed with flavor, it's a perfect remedy for a chilly evening or a scratchy throat. But who has time to fuss over a stovetop simmering for hours? This recipe shows you how to make delicious, homemade chicken noodle soup in your slow cooker, freeing up your time and maximizing flavor.
What Makes Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup So Special?
The magic of a crockpot lies in its low and slow cooking method. This allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, releasing its flavor into the broth, creating a rich and deeply satisfying soup. The long cooking time also melds the vegetables beautifully, resulting in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Unlike quick stovetop versions, the crockpot method produces a soup with a more complex and nuanced flavor profile. You'll taste the difference!
Ingredients for the Best Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) or 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: For maximum flavor, bone-in chicken is essential.
- 12 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred): Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Provides a subtle earthy note.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: The foundation of savory flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent depth to the broth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb pairing for chicken soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a hint of woodsy aroma.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your preference after cooking.
- 1 cup egg noodles: Choose your favorite type of noodles.
- Optional additions: Bay leaves, parsley, fresh dill, diced potatoes, or other vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Prep the chicken: Rinse the whole chicken (or chicken thighs) and place it in the slow cooker.
- Add the broth and vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth and add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
- Season: Season generously with salt and pepper. If using bay leaves, add them now.
- Cook on low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones.
- Add the noodles: Stir in the egg noodles. Continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Stir in chicken & season: Add the shredded chicken back to the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish & Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving. Enjoy!
How Long Does Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your delicious crockpot chicken noodle soup will last for 3-4 days. It also freezes well; store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in your crockpot chicken noodle soup. Simply add the frozen chicken to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients and increase the cooking time by about an hour or two to ensure it's fully cooked.
What Kind of Noodles Are Best for Chicken Noodle Soup?
Egg noodles are a classic choice, but you can use other types of noodles, such as thin spaghetti, ditalini, or even rice noodles. Choose a noodle that will hold up well in the soup and won't become mushy.
Can I Make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will even meld better over time!
Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Don't overfill the slow cooker: Leave some space at the top to allow for proper steaming.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning can be subjective, so taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference after cooking.
- Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as diced potatoes, green beans, or peas.
- Use fresh herbs: For an even more vibrant flavor, use fresh herbs instead of dried.
This recipe provides a framework for your culinary creativity. Feel free to adapt it to your taste and preferences. Enjoy your comforting bowl of homemade crockpot chicken noodle soup!
