Description
This slow cooker chicken soup recipe is a comforting, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that requires minimal preparation and delivers rich, flavorful results. Made with tender chicken breasts, fresh vegetables, and egg noodles all simmered in savory chicken broth, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or anytime you crave classic homemade chicken noodle soup.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 64 oz chicken broth or stock
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
Protein
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Foster Farms Simply Raised recommended)
Vegetables
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 stalks celery, sliced
- 1/2 onion, diced or cut into chunks
Add-ins
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
- 3 sprigs fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot to serve as the protein base.
- Add Vegetables: Slice carrots, celery, and onion, then layer them on top of the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired, although the broth usually provides enough seasoning. Many prefer to season at the end according to taste.
- Add Broth: Pour the 64 oz of chicken broth evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook the Soup: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for approximately 6 to 8 hours. The soup will be ready in 6 hours but can cook longer for more depth of flavor.
- Shred Chicken and Add Noodles: About 10 minutes before serving, gently shred the chicken into chunks using a fork; it will easily fall apart. Add the uncooked egg noodles and the parsley if using.
- Final Cook: Cover the crockpot again and cook until the egg noodles are tender but still a bit al dente, which usually takes about 10 minutes depending on your crockpot.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed, then serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Seasoning is recommended at the end to avoid over-salting due to the sodium content in the broth.
- Shredding the chicken just before serving ensures it remains tender and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on crockpot model and temperature settings.
- Egg noodles can be swapped with gluten-free noodles or pasta for dietary preferences.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze nicely for up to 2 months.