Chicken Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, and when you make it in the slow cooker, it becomes even more effortless. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles simmering low and slow, you get a deeply flavorful broth with almost no hands-on work. Perfect for family dinner recipes or a cozy meal on a busy night, this slow cooker chicken noodle soup will quickly become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: ½ cup heavy cream for extra richness
Instructions
- Add ingredients to slow cooker: Place chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
- Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Shred chicken: Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add noodles: Stir in egg noodles and cook on high for 20–30 minutes, until noodles are tender.
- Finish and serve: Stir in parsley (and cream if using), adjust seasoning, and serve warm.
Health Benefits of Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
- Immune Support: Chicken, garlic, and broth are nourishing and soothing, especially when you’re under the weather.
- Protein-Rich: Shredded chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and energized.
- Veggie Goodness: Carrots, celery, and onions bring vitamins and minerals for a balanced meal.
- Hydration & Comfort: A warm broth keeps you hydrated and offers cozy comfort.
Variations and Serving Ideas
- Chicken Pasta Soup Twist: Swap egg noodles for short pasta like rotini or penne.
- Turkey Noodle Soup: Use leftover turkey for an easy post-holiday version.
- Rice Noodle Soup: Substitute rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Ramen Noodle Soup: Add soy sauce, ginger, and ramen noodles for an Asian-inspired twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker chicken noodle soup is the definition of comfort made easy. With minimal prep, the slow cooker does the work for you, creating rich flavor and tender ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or whenever you crave a hearty bowl of homemade soup.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup combines ease with comfort, giving you a nourishing and flavorful meal without standing over the stove. With tender chicken, egg noodles, and vegetables simmered to perfection, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Save this recipe to your collection of noodle soup recipes and enjoy warm, cozy comfort any time.