Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe – A Comforting Classic

March 29, 2025

Savor the comforting classic of crock pot chicken noodle soup, perfect for cozy evenings. Use boneless chicken, fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, onions, and savory egg noodles as the heart of your dish. Pour in a rich, low-sodium chicken broth for a flavorful base. Enhance with thyme, pepper, and parsley for a well-rounded taste. Start by layering the chicken and veggies in your crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add cooked noodles towards the end to avoid mushiness. Adjust flavors and enjoy a healthy, protein-filled soup. There's more to discover about perfecting this heartwarming classic!

Key Soup Components

essential soup ingredients list

When it comes to crafting the perfect crock pot chicken noodle soup, the key components are what truly make it shine. First, choose quality chicken; boneless, skinless breasts or thighs work well. They provide the hearty, protein-rich base your soup needs.

Fresh vegetables are essential—grab carrots, celery, and onions for vibrant color and flavor. Don't forget the noodles! Egg noodles are classic, absorbing the broth's savory goodness without becoming mushy.

Finally, season your soup with care. Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley enhance the natural flavors.

To guarantee you enjoy your soup to the fullest, remember to:

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
  • Adjust seasoning to suit personal preferences.
  • Cook on low for tender chicken.
  • Add noodles towards the end.

Broth Selection Tips

When selecting broth for your crock pot chicken noodle soup, start with quality ingredients to guarantee rich flavor.

You might consider the freshness of homemade broth versus the convenience of store-bought options.

Enhance the taste by adding fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice to either choice.

Choose Quality Ingredients

Selecting the right broth is essential for crafting a delicious Crock Pot chicken noodle soup. When you're choosing a broth, opt for a low-sodium version. This gives you better control over the soup's final seasoning.

Pay attention to the ingredients list; a short list with recognizable ingredients is a good sign. Avoid broths with artificial flavors or preservatives, as they can impact the taste of your soup.

Consider the flavor profile as well. A chicken broth with rich, deep flavors will elevate your dish. If you're feeling adventurous, try a bone broth for added nutrients and a more robust taste.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Beyond the choice of quality ingredients, deciding between homemade and store-bought broth can considerably influence your Crock Pot chicken noodle soup.

Homemade broth brings a rich, deep flavor, allowing you to control sodium and seasoning levels. You can simmer chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs to create a robust base. If you've got the time, homemade is the way to go for that personal touch.

Store-bought broth, on the other hand, offers convenience and speed. It's perfect for busy days when you need a quick solution. Look for low-sodium options to avoid overpowering your soup's flavors.

Choose broths with minimal additives and preservatives to maintain a fresh taste. Remember, the broth you select lays the foundation for your soup's overall flavor.

Flavor Enhancement Techniques

Enhancing the flavor of your Crock Pot chicken noodle soup often begins with making smart choices about your broth. Opt for a high-quality chicken broth, as it serves as the foundation of your soup.

If you can, choose a low-sodium option so you can control the salt levels yourself. This allows you to adjust the seasoning to your taste while avoiding an overly salty dish.

Consider adding depth by incorporating a splash of chicken stock concentrate or using a bone broth for extra richness.

If you're feeling adventurous, infuse your broth with herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking. These subtle additions can elevate the overall flavor profile, ensuring your soup is savory and satisfying without being overwhelming.

Step-by-Step Instructions

detailed instructional guide

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients****

  • Action: Gather and prepare all ingredients needed for the soup.
  • Ingredients Needed: Chicken breasts (boneless and skinless), carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, egg noodles, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  • Tip: Chop the vegetables uniformly to guarantee even cooking. Avoid cutting vegetables too small as they may become mushy.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in the Crock Pot

  • Action: Layer the ingredients in the crock pot.
  • Tools/Ingredients Needed: Crock pot, prepared vegetables, chicken breasts, and chicken broth.
  • Tip: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot for even cooking. Add the vegetables on top and pour the chicken broth over everything.

Step 3: Season the Soup Base****

  • Action: Add seasonings to enhance the flavor.
  • Ingredients Needed: Salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.
  • Tip: Adjust seasoning to taste, but be cautious with salt as the chicken broth may already contain some.

Step 4: Cook the Soup****

  • Action: Set the crock pot to cook.
  • Tools Needed: Crock pot with a timer or manual setting.
  • Tip: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often as it releases heat and extends cooking time.

Step 5: Prepare the Noodles****

  • Action: Cook the egg noodles separately.
  • Tools/Ingredients Needed: Pot, water, and egg noodles.
  • Tip: Cook noodles al dente as they'll absorb some broth when added to the soup.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken****

  • Action: Remove and shred the chicken.
  • Tools Needed: Forks or a shredding tool.
  • Tip: Shred the chicken directly in the crock pot using two forks to save time and mess.

Step 7: Combine Noodles and Soup****

  • Action: Add the cooked noodles to the soup.
  • Tools/Ingredients Needed: Prepared egg noodles.
  • Tip: Add noodles shortly before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Step 8: Final Seasoning and Garnish****

  • Action: Taste and adjust seasoning, then garnish.
  • Ingredients Needed: Fresh parsley for garnish.
  • Tip: Add fresh herbs right before serving to preserve their flavor and color.

Ingredient Chopping Techniques

How exactly do you guarantee perfectly chopped ingredients for your crock pot chicken noodle soup?

Start by using a sharp knife to make clean, even cuts. For onions, slice them in half, peel, and make horizontal cuts before dicing vertically.

Carrots and celery should be chopped into uniform slices, about a quarter-inch thick, to guarantee even cooking.

When it comes to garlic, smash the cloves with the flat side of your knife before mincing. This releases more flavor.

For herbs like parsley, gather them into a tight bunch before finely chopping.

Take your time with each ingredient, maintaining consistency in size for uniform cooking.

Remember, well-prepared ingredients lay the foundation for a delicious, hearty soup.

Happy chopping!

Slow Simmer in Crock Pot

Begin by gathering your prepared ingredients and setting up your crock pot.

Place the chopped onions, carrots, and celery at the bottom of the pot. Layer the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring everything is submerged.

Add garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper for flavor. Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Halfway through cooking, check the liquid level and add more broth if needed. Once the chicken is tender, remove it, shred with forks, and return to the pot.

Add egg noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Enjoy your comforting, homemade soup!

Calorie and Protein Content

Understanding the nutritional value of your crock pot chicken noodle soup is essential, especially if you're mindful of your calorie and protein intake. By having a clear idea of what you're consuming, you can better align your meals with your dietary goals. A typical serving of chicken noodle soup can vary, but here's a simple breakdown:

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 200
Protein (g) 15

Conclusion

You've crafted a comforting classic with this crock pot chicken noodle soup recipe. Isn't it amazing how the right broth can elevate the flavors? You've followed the steps, savoring each moment as the ingredients blend into a delicious masterpiece. With a hearty balance of calories and protein, it's not just tasty—it's nourishing too. So, why wait? Grab a bowl and enjoy the warmth and comfort that only a homemade soup can provide.