Ultimate Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe: Comforting & Easy for Cozy Nights

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of slow cooker chicken noodle soup wafting through your home. This classic dish not only warms your soul but also brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding you of cozy family dinners and chilly evenings. With its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles, it’s a dish that satisfies both the stomach and the heart.

Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Creating a warm batch of slow cooker chicken noodle soup is both easy and rewarding. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a delicious meal that fills your home with aromatic comfort.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas

Broth and Seasonings

• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf

• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment Needed

To make a delicious slow cooker chicken noodle soup you will need the following equipment:

• Slow Cooker: A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is ideal for preparing a hearty batch of soup.
• Cutting Board: Use a sturdy cutting board for chopping vegetables and preparing your ingredients efficiently.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife will allow you to dice the onion and slice the carrots and celery with ease.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements of the broth and seasonings are essential for flavor balance.
• Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the ingredients together without damaging the slow cooker.
• Ladle: Use a ladle to serve the warm soup into bowls, ensuring that you get an even distribution of chicken, vegetables, and noodles.
• Serving Bowls: Have enough bowls on hand to serve the soup to your family or guests comfortably.

Ensure that you have all these tools ready before you start cooking; this preparation will help streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful slow cooker chicken noodle soup that your family will love. Each phase of the process enhances the flavors and textures, resulting in a comforting meal.

Prep Ingredients

1. Start by dicing the onion and chopping the celery. Set them aside.
2. Peel and slice the carrots into thin rounds.
3. Mince the garlic cloves and combine all the prepped vegetables in a mixing bowl.
4. Season the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
5. Measure out 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and have your herbs—dried thyme, dried parsley, and bay leaf—ready.

Cook in Slow Cooker

1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle the prepped vegetables (onion, celery, carrots, and garlic) over the chicken.
3. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, ensuring all ingredients are covered.
4. Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, and bay leaf to the mixture.
5. Secure the lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
7. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
8. Stir in 8 ounces of egg noodles and cover the slow cooker again.
9. Continue cooking on high for the last 30 minutes until the noodles are cooked and tender.
10. Before serving, stir in frozen peas and let them warm through for about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed and garnish with fresh parsley before ladling into bowls.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your slow cooker chicken noodle soup experience, consider these serving suggestions that will delight your family and friends.

Pair with Crusty Bread

Serve your warm chicken noodle soup alongside freshly baked crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. The combination creates a satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Add a Side Salad

A light side salad enhances the meal’s freshness. Opt for a simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette. This adds a bright contrast to the rich soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

Garnish each bowl with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dill for a burst of flavor. The vibrant colors and fresh aromas will make the dish visually appealing and aromatic.

Include Cheese

Consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar cheese on top of the soup just before serving. The creamy texture complements the soup beautifully.

Customize Bowls

Set up a toppings bar where everyone can customize their bowls with extras like crushed red pepper flakes, extra lemon juice, or diced avocado. This interactive element makes for a fun dining experience.

Serve with a Beverage

Complement your meal with a hot beverage such as herbal tea or apple cider. Both enhance the comforting nature of the chicken noodle soup.

Use Different Noodles

Experiment with various types of noodles beyond egg noodles. Consider whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences while retaining the soup’s heartiness.

By implementing these serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that enhances the comforting flavors of your slow cooker chicken noodle soup. Enjoy the warmth and delight it brings to your table.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can easily prepare your slow cooker chicken noodle soup ahead of time. Follow these steps to ensure a fresh and delicious meal when you’re ready to enjoy it.

1. Prep Ingredients: Start by chopping the vegetables and mincing the garlic. Dice the onion, slice the carrots, and chop the celery. Store the prepared vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
2. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You can do this a day in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. Wrap the seasoned chicken tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate.
3. Layer Ingredients: On the day you plan to cook, you can layer all your ingredients in the slow cooker. Start with the chicken breasts at the bottom, followed by the prepared vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. Finally, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth.
4. Refrigerate Overnight: If you prefer a complete make-ahead option, you can prepare the entire slow cooker insert the night before. Store the insert in the refrigerator and cook in the morning. Just remember to insert it into the slow cooker base when you’re ready to start the cooking process.
5. Cooking Time Adjustment: If you refrigerated the ingredients, adjust your cooking time. You may need to add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Optional Freezing: For even longer storage, you can freeze the prepared chicken and vegetables in a freezer-friendly bag. When you’re ready to make the soup, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the standard cooking instructions.

By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of your slow cooker chicken noodle soup with minimal last-minute effort.

Conclusion

Slow cooker chicken noodle soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on chilly nights. With its tender chicken and hearty vegetables, it brings comfort and nostalgia to your dinner table. The ease of preparation allows you to spend more time with loved ones while enjoying a delicious homemade dish.

Feel free to customize it to your taste and explore different noodle options. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Embrace the warmth and flavor of slow cooker chicken noodle soup, and make it a staple in your kitchen.