Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Introduction

Chicken noodle soup has been a timeless comfort food for centuries, and when made in a crockpot, it becomes even more effortless and flavorful. Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is the perfect dish for busy families, cold weather days, or when you’re feeling under the weather. The slow cooker gently simmers the chicken, vegetables, and seasonings, infusing the broth with rich, savory flavors. By the time you’re ready to eat, all you need to do is add the noodles and enjoy a steaming bowl of love and comfort.

Why I Love This Recipe

love this recipe because it truly feels like a hug in a bowl. The slow cooker takes all the stress out of cooking and fills the house with the comforting aroma of simmering chicken, vegetables, and herbs. It’s the kind of meal that nourishes both body and soul—perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather, need something cozy on a chilly day, or simply crave a wholesome homemade dish.

What makes it even more special is its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you get a rich, flavorful broth, tender chicken, and soft noodles that everyone loves. It’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and always hits the spot. I especially love that it’s a recipe you can set and forget—by the time dinner rolls around, you have a hearty and satisfying meal ready to serve.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Effortless cooking: Just add ingredients and let the crockpot do its job.
• Healing comfort food: Perfect for when you’re sick or in need of cozy nourishment.
• Family-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
• Balanced meal: Protein, veggies, and carbs all in one bowl.
• Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and reheat when needed.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
• Total Time: 6–8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: ~250–300 per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American Comfort Food
• Course: Main Dish / Soup

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 1 ½ to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Noodles:

• 6–8 oz egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Add chicken, veggies, seasonings, and broth to the crockpot.
2. Cook until chicken is tender.
3. Remove chicken, shred it, and return to the soup.
4. Add noodles and cook until tender.
5. Garnish and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Chop onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.

Step 2: Load the Crockpot

• Add chicken, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Slow Cook

• Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

• Remove the chicken, shred with two forks, discard bay leaf, and return shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Step 5: Add the Noodles

• Stir in egg noodles and cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes, or until noodles are tender.

Step 6: Serve

• Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley or a squeeze of lemon, and serve warm.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in deep bowls with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls.
• Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for extra flavor.

Additional Recipe Tips

• For richer flavor, sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter before adding to the crockpot.
• Add noodles just before serving to prevent them from getting mushy.
• Use chicken thighs for more flavor, chicken breasts for a leaner version.
• If you want a creamier soup, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream at the end.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles or rice.
• Low-Carb: Swap noodles for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Herb-Infused: Add rosemary, dill, or bay leaves for extra flavor.
• Vegetable Boost: Add peas, corn, or spinach in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze without noodles for up to 3 months (noodles don’t freeze well). Add fresh noodles when reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or microwave. Add extra broth if needed, since noodles absorb liquid.

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot (slow cooker)
• Cutting board & sharp knife
• Ladle for serving

Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is the definition of cozy comfort food. It’s nourishing, hearty, and simple to prepare—perfect for sick days, chilly evenings, or when you just need a warm hug in a bowl. The crockpot makes it almost effortless, allowing you to come home to a wholesome, flavorful meal. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to family favorite.