Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
There’s something magical about a warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup on a chilly day. This comforting classic is not only nourishing but incredibly easy to make, thanks to the slow cooker. Tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and slurp-worthy noodles come together in a rich, aromatic broth that soothes from the inside out. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or craving a cozy meal, this recipe will become a staple in your home.
Servings 6
Calories 320kcal
Cost $12–$15
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a richer flavor
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 medium carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced thin
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles add at the end or cook separately to avoid mushiness
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional, for added richness
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
- Juice of ½ lemon optional, to brighten flavors
Instructions
- Peel and slice your carrots, chop the celery, and dice the onion. Add them to the bottom of your crockpot. Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. You can season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth until it covers the ingredients completely. Add the garlic, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf. Give it a gentle stir. Drizzle in a bit of olive oil for extra depth (optional but recommended).
- Set your slow cooker to low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The long, slow simmer helps extract the flavors of the herbs, veggies, and chicken into the broth, creating a rich, savory base.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Discard the bay leaf, then return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.
- If eating right away, add the egg noodles to the crockpot and cook for 15–20 minutes until tender. For best texture, cook noodles separately and add them just before serving. This prevents them from becoming mushy when stored.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice. Ladle into bowls and top with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor
If you have bone-in chicken, go for it! The bones add a richer flavor and more nutrients to the broth. Just be sure to remove the bones when shredding the chicken. Don’t Overcook the Noodles
Noodles can turn to mush if left in the soup too long. To keep them al dente, cook them separately and stir them in just before serving or reheating. Skim the Broth if Needed
If you notice any foam or fat rising to the top during cooking, simply skim it off with a spoon for a clearer, lighter broth. Add a Squeeze of Lemon
Just a bit of lemon juice at the end brightens the soup and adds a pop of freshness — especially nice if you’re feeling under the weather.
If you have bone-in chicken, go for it! The bones add a richer flavor and more nutrients to the broth. Just be sure to remove the bones when shredding the chicken. Don’t Overcook the Noodles
Noodles can turn to mush if left in the soup too long. To keep them al dente, cook them separately and stir them in just before serving or reheating. Skim the Broth if Needed
If you notice any foam or fat rising to the top during cooking, simply skim it off with a spoon for a clearer, lighter broth. Add a Squeeze of Lemon
Just a bit of lemon juice at the end brightens the soup and adds a pop of freshness — especially nice if you’re feeling under the weather.