Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup: A Warm Embrace on a Chilly Day
Hello, dear readers and budding family chefs! Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s sure to warm your heart and soothe your soul: our Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl full of comfort that promises to bring warmth and joy to your table. Perfect for those cooler days or when you need a little pick-me-up, this soup is easy to prepare, delicious to eat, and a wonderful way to introduce your little ones to the joys of cooking. Let’s dive into how you can make this heartwarming dish part of your family’s mealtime traditions.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a nurturing experience for the body and soul. Here’s why it will become a favorite in your household:
- Effortless Cooking: Utilizing the crock pot means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours without any fuss.
- Kid-Friendly Kitchen Fun: This recipe provides simple, safe opportunities for kids to get involved in the kitchen, making it a perfect family cooking adventure.
- Comfort in a Bowl: With its rich broth, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, this soup offers a comforting taste that’s perfect for any day of the year.
- Health Benefits: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and protein-rich chicken, this soup is as healthy as it is delicious.
Gather Your Ingredients
To create this nourishing soup, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that come together to create something truly special:
- Chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing lean protein.
- Carrots, celery, and onion: Classic soup vegetables that add flavor, color, and vitamins.
- Garlic: Just a touch for that aromatic warmth.
- Chicken broth: The base of our soup, enveloping everything in rich flavor.
- Egg noodles: For that traditional chicken noodle texture and comfort.
- Seasonings: Thyme and rosemary add a layer of herbal notes that complement the chicken beautifully.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Creating this soup is as easy as can be, but the results are wonderfully complex. Here’s how to bring it all together:
Prep and Cook
- Chop and Prepare: Start with prepping your veggies—chopping carrots, celery, and onions. Kids can help by washing the vegetables or gathering all the ingredients.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot, top with your chopped veggies and garlic, then pour over the chicken broth and sprinkle in your herbs and spices.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Set your crock pot to low and let it work its magic for about six hours. This slow cooking process is perfect for developing deep, rich flavors.
- Finishing Touches: About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken, add it back to the pot with the egg noodles, and let everything finish cooking together.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you like, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan. Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well, though it’s best to freeze it without the noodles as they can become mushy when reheated. Freeze in sealed containers for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth or water if it has thickened up in the fridge.
Substitutions and Additions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some tweaks you can try:
- Go Gluten-Free: Swap the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta or leave them out entirely.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in some spinach, kale, or peas for an extra veggie boost.
- Switch the Protein: Use turkey, beef, or even tofu for a different take on this classic soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just remember it might extend the cooking time slightly.
Q: What can I use instead of egg noodles? A: Any pasta will work, but for a healthier twist, try whole grain pasta or even rice.
Q: How can I make this soup creamier? A: Stir in some cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier texture.
Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
The Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup is not just about feeding hungry bellies; it’s about creating warm, cherished family moments around the dining table.
So, tie on your apron, gather your little helpers, and prepare to make a dish that’s as nourishing for the soul as it is for the body. This chicken noodle soup promises a deliciously rewarding experience, from the first chop of a carrot to the last satisfying spoonful. Here’s to a meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for any day that needs a little extra comfort. Bon appétit!
Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Equipment
Equipment and Ingredient sections may contain affiliate links to items we use and love.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Boneless Chicken Breast, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Onion, chopped
- 3 This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Carrot, peeled and sliced
- 3 This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Celery, sliced
- 4 cloves This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Garlic, minced
- 6 cups This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Chicken Broth
- 1 teaspoon This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Dried Thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Salt and Pepper
- 2 cups This section may contain affiliate links to products we know and love.Egg Noodles
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, slicing the carrots and celery, and mincing the garlic. Kids can help with washing the veggies and gathering the spices.
- Layer in the Crock Pot: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic on top.
- Add Broth and Spices: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper evenly over the top.
- Set to Cook: Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process is great for tenderizing the chicken and melding the flavors together.
- Shred the Chicken: About 30 minutes before the end of cooking time, remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. It should be very tender and easy to shred.
- Add Noodles: Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir in the egg noodles. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm for a nourishing, comforting meal.
Notes
Nutrition
Kitchen Gear and Equipment We Use and Love
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