This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly evenings. With tender chicken, hearty noodles, and tasty veggies, it’s a true family favorite!
I love how simple it is to make—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook! It’s like a hug in a bowl, and it always makes my home smell amazing! 🍲💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. If you’re in the mood for something different, you can also use thighs for a richer flavor. Leftover roast chicken can be a fantastic shortcut!
Chicken Broth: Store-bought broth saves time, but homemade broth is even better! Replace it with vegetable broth for a lighter version or if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Carrots and Celery: These veggies add crunch and sweetness. Feel free to swap in chopped bell peppers or green beans if that’s what you have on hand.
Herbs: Dried thyme, parsley, and basil bring warmth and flavor. If you prefer fresh herbs, double the amounts for a bright finish. Don’t forget to save some for garnish!
Noodles: Egg noodles are classic, but any pasta like rotini or penne can work. For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken is a simple step, and you can do it quicker than you think! After the chicken is cooked, just take it out of the crockpot and use two forks.
- Hold one fork in each hand.
- With one fork, hold the chicken in place, and with the other fork, gently pull the meat apart.
- Shred until you get your desired texture. It doesn’t need to be perfect—some larger pieces add nice texture!
Shredded chicken can then go back into the soup, where it will soak up all the delicious broth flavors!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups dried egg noodles or wide egg noodles
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you let the crockpot do the work! You’ll cook it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. After that, there’s just a quick 20 minutes at the end to cook the noodles. So, in total, you’re looking at about 7 hours for low or 4 hours and 15 minutes for high heat. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are laid out evenly so they cook thoroughly. Then, add the sliced carrots, celery, diced onion, and minced garlic on top. These veggies will add great flavor and nutrition!
2. Season the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth all around the vegetables and chicken. This will help everything cook together beautifully. Next, sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, basil, and add salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
3. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and the vegetables are soft. It’s a good time for a nap while it cooks!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart easily!
5. Add the Noodles:
Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot. Next, add in the dried noodles and give everything a good stir. Cover the pot again and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes. This will cook the noodles until they are just right, al dente!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Once the noodles are cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Don’t forget, you want it to be just right for you!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to dish out your delicious soup! Serve it hot and garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your cozy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup with some crusty bread on the side for dipping!
This recipe brings together all the comfort and warmth you need in a bowl, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on a quiet night in. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that if you’re using frozen chicken breasts, they may need additional cooking time. It’s best to cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours to ensure they are fully cooked through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this chicken noodle soup gluten-free, simply swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work wonderfully in soups, such as rice noodles or quinoa pasta!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the noodles may soak up some of the broth, so you might need to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like peas, green beans, or corn. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly and match the texture of the other ingredients!
