Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warmth and satisfaction of homemade chicken noodle soup. This hearty recipe is not only easy to prepare but also uses a crockpot, which makes cooking a breeze. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly day or a family gathering.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
3 carrots, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices
2 ribs celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
½ lemon, juiced
8 ounces egg noodles (approximately ⅔ of a standard package)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours
Total Time: 4 to 5 hours
Yield: Serves 6-8
This delightful chicken noodle soup recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of fresh ingredients and spices delivers a comforting bowl that’s perfect for any day!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot and season with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Add the low-sodium chicken broth, chopped onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, and the bay leaf to the crockpot. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
Cover the crockpot and cook the mixture on low for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
After the cooking time has elapsed, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Discard the bay leaf from the mixture.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Lemon Juice
Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot and add the juice of half a lemon. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Add Egg Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the crockpot. Season the mixture with additional kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Finish Cooking the Noodles
Cover the crockpot again and cook on low for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the egg noodles are al dente.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Garnish the chicken noodle soup with fresh parsley before serving to add a burst of flavor and color.
Notes
Cooking Time Variation
Cooking times may vary based on the specific crockpot model and the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Adjusting Seasonings
Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on personal preference; additional herbs or spices can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken noodle soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Storage Recommendations
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful by cooking it gently over a long period in a crockpot. This technique enhances the overall depth of flavor in the dish.
Shredding Chicken
After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken. This technique helps to incorporate the chicken evenly into the soup, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the broth and spices.
Layering Ingredients
When preparing the crockpot, layer the ingredients starting with the chicken, followed by the broth and vegetables. This ensures even cooking and that the chicken stays moist.
Seasoning
Proper seasoning is crucial. Adding kosher salt and black pepper at the beginning allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken and vegetables early on.
Cooking Noodles
Add egg noodles toward the end of the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy. This technique ensures that they remain al dente and provide a satisfying texture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot; just ensure you increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.
What can I substitute for egg noodles?
You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, or even use rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can customize the soup by adding vegetables such as peas, corn, or green beans according to your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep, as it reheats well and the flavors improve over time, making it a perfect option for future meals.
Conclusion
This crockpot chicken noodle soup is a perfect comfort food that combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and flavorful noodles. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. The addition of lemon juice brightens the flavors, while fresh parsley adds a lovely touch when serving. This cozy soup is sure to warm you up!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Use the same base ingredients, but substitute egg noodles with cooked rice for a creamy baked dish.
Vegetable Chicken Stir-Fry
Take the shredded chicken and toss it with a variety of colorful vegetables and your choice of sauce for a quick stir-fry.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Add diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn to the crockpot. Top with tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese before serving.
Chicken Tacos
Shred the chicken as directed and serve it in warm tortillas topped with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, cheese, and avocado.
Chicken and Dumplings
Incorporate biscuit dough on top of the soup during the last cooking stage for a hearty chicken and dumplings dish.
Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup
Amp up the veg by adding zucchini, green beans, or potatoes to the base recipe for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Chicken and Noodles
Add crushed red pepper or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick to the classic soup recipe.
