Name: Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups carrots, sliced; 2 cups celery, sliced; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; 1 tsp dried parsley; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups egg noodles; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

There's nothing more comforting than the warm, savory aroma of chicken noodle soup simmering away in your kitchen. And when it’s made in a crockpot? It’s practically magic. With tender chicken, flavorful broth, and hearty noodles, this recipe is everything you need on a chilly day or when fighting off a cold.

I first discovered this slow cooker gem during a particularly hectic winter. Between work and family commitments, I needed something that was both easy and nourishing. One taste of this soup, and it was an instant hit with my family! Let me show you how to make this cozy classic.

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food. This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup ticks all the boxes for a satisfying, hassle-free meal.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a steaming pot of soup ready to enjoy. No fuss, no hovering over the stove!

The flavors are rich and hearty, thanks to the slow cooking process that allows the ingredients to meld together perfectly. Every bite is bursting with tender chicken, savory broth, and perfectly cooked vegetables.

It’s also family-friendly. Even picky eaters will love the classic flavors of this soup, and the noodles make it extra appealing for kids. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for a full meal everyone will devour.

Finally, this recipe is budget-friendly. Using simple, wholesome ingredients, you can create a big batch of soup that’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Leftovers? They taste even better the next day!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this soup lies in its simple ingredients, which come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They’ll cook to tender perfection in the crockpot, shredding effortlessly when done.
Broth: A high-quality chicken broth is key. Opt for low-sodium to control the seasoning, or make your own for an extra flavor boost.
Vegetables: Classic choices like carrots, celery, and onions form the backbone of this recipe. They add both flavor and nutrition.
Noodles: Wide egg noodles are traditional for chicken noodle soup. Their texture holds up beautifully, even in a hot broth.
Seasonings: A blend of garlic, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and parsley gives the soup its signature flavor. Adjust the herbs to your taste!
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the broth.

You’ll also need a 6-quart slow cooker, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for prepping the vegetables.

How To Make This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Making this soup is as simple as setting it and forgetting it! Here’s how to do it:

Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onions, minced garlic, and seasonings. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring the ingredients are fully submerged.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Add the Noodles: About 20-30 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles. Cook until they’re tender but not overdone.
Finish with Lemon Juice: Right before serving, stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice. This simple step enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing brightness to the soup.

Total Time: 6-8 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high), plus 10 minutes of prep. Your reward? A bowl of homemade goodness that’s better than anything from a can!

Storage Options

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the noodles separate if possible, as they can absorb the broth and become mushy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup (minus the noodles) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
Reheating: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the broth has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this soup is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Gluten-Free Option: Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice. Be sure to check the cooking times for the substitution.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add chickpeas or cannellini beans for protein.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like dill or tarragon for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or frozen peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a boost of color and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, whether you’re battling a cold, warming up on a chilly evening, or just craving a taste of nostalgia. With its rich flavors, effortless prep, and customizable options, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Serve it with a slice of crusty bread, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a cozy blanket – and you’ve got yourself the perfect recipe for a great day. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!