If you are searching for a soul-soothing, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup in the Crock Pot Recipe is exactly what you need. It transforms simple ingredients into a velvety, comforting soup that cooks slowly to develop rich flavors, tender chicken, and perfectly soft noodles. The ease of the crock pot means you can come home to a bubbling pot of goodness with minimal effort, making it an absolute favorite for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together to create layers of flavor, delightful texture, and inviting color. Each item plays a starring role in crafting a soup that is flavorful yet gentle, creamy but refreshing.
- Celery, 1 cup chopped finely: Adds a subtle crunch and freshness that brightens the soup’s base.
- Onion, 1 cup chopped finely: Provides a natural sweetness and depth when slow-cooked.
- Carrots, 1 ½ cups sliced thinly: Contributes vibrant orange hues and a mild earthiness.
- Garlic, ½ tablespoon minced: Infuses the soup with a gentle, aromatic warmth.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 ½ lbs: The lean protein that becomes tender and shreddable.
- Salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Pepper, ½ teaspoon: Adds just the right hint of spice to balance the creaminess.
- Fresh rosemary, 1 teaspoon chopped: Brings a fragrant, pine-like essence to the soup.
- Dried thyme, ¼ teaspoon: Offers subtle herbal notes that tie the flavors together.
- Red pepper flakes, ¼ teaspoon (optional): For those who like a little kick without overwhelming the broth.
- Bay leaves, 4: A classic addition that enriches the broth’s complexity.
- Chicken broth, 8 cups (low or no sodium): The flavorful liquid foundation that simmers all ingredients to perfection.
- Egg noodles, 3 ½ cups (8 oz): The soft, chewy noodles that soak up the luscious soup.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup in the Crock Pot Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Begin by adding all your chopped vegetables, garlic, seasonings, bay leaves, chicken breasts, and chicken broth into your crock pot. Skipping the noodles for now is key because they cook faster and can become mushy if added too early. This stage sets the flavor foundation as the ingredients mingle and soften gently over time.
Step 2: Slow Cook on Low or High
Set your crock pot on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow simmer extracts all the wonderful aromas and tenderizes the chicken perfectly without needing constant attention. The long cooking time results in a profound depth of flavor you just can’t rush.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
About 20 minutes before mealtime, take out the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Shredding while the chicken is warm ensures silky, juicy strands that blend effortlessly back into the soup, making every bite comforting and filling.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Switch your crock pot to high and stir in the egg noodles. If you prefer, you can boil the noodles separately to control their texture before adding them to the soup. Either way, letting the noodles cook for about 15 to 20 minutes in the hot broth is what makes this soup irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the noodles have softened to perfection, your Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup in the Crock Pot Recipe is ready to enjoy. This final step is the sweetest reward — a warm bowl filled with creamy, savory, and tender morsels perfect for any day you want cozy comfort.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup in the Crock Pot Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme sprinkled on top add a burst of color and freshness. A drizzle of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream can amp up that luxurious creamy texture, making the soup feel even more indulgent.
Side Dishes
A crusty piece of garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into every last drop of this soup. For a light side, a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the soup’s rich creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a fun, rustic presentation that doubles as part of the meal. Or, top the soup with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and broil for a few minutes to create a comforting, gooey layer that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the noodles, it’s best to keep the soup chilled promptly to maintain its freshness and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but it is wise to leave the noodles out if you plan to freeze it. Freeze the broth and chicken mixture separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and cook fresh noodles before combining to avoid mushiness.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat to preserve the delicate flavors and creamy texture. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent overcooking the noodles and drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a richer flavor. They also shred beautifully, but just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly if needed.
Is it possible to make this soup without a crock pot?
Yes, you can simmer all the ingredients (except the noodles) on the stove over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Add noodles in the last 15 minutes, stirring until tender.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Definitely. To keep it creamy without dairy, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute added toward the end. The soup remains just as comforting and delicious.
What if I want to add more vegetables?
Feel free to throw in extras like peas, corn, or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Just adjust liquid levels so your soup stays soupy but not too watery.
How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?
Adding noodles only in the last 15 to 20 minutes on high heat, or cooking them separately, is the key to perfectly textured noodles that don’t get sodden in the soup.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup in the Crock Pot Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience made easy. From the first simmer to the last cozy spoonful, this soup invites you to slow down and savor comfort at its very best. I promise once you try it, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food with incredibly little fuss.
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Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup in the Crock Pot Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A comforting and hearty chicken noodle soup made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken, nutritious vegetables, fragrant herbs, and egg noodles to create a warm and satisfying meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 cup celery, chopped finely
- 1 cup onion, chopped finely
- 1 ½ cups carrots, sliced in small circles
- ½ tablespoon garlic, minced
Protein and Seasonings
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 bay leaves
Liquids and Pasta
- 8 cups chicken broth, low or no sodium
- 3 ½ cups egg noodles (8 oz)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In your crock pot, combine all ingredients except for the egg noodles. This includes the celery, onion, carrots, garlic, chicken breasts, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes, bay leaves, and chicken broth.
- Cook Soup: Cook the mixture on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook thoroughly.
- Shred Chicken: Twenty minutes before serving, remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken back into the pot.
- Add Noodles: Turn your crock pot to high and stir in the egg noodles. Alternatively, you can boil the noodles separately on the stove if preferred, then combine with the soup.
- Finish and Serve: Allow the noodles to cook in the crock pot for 15-20 minutes until tender. Once the noodles are perfectly cooked, your chicken noodle soup is ready to enjoy!
Notes
- For a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your heat preference or omit for a mild flavor.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried if unavailable, but adjust quantities accordingly.
- Using low or no sodium broth allows better control over the saltiness of the soup.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
