There’s something about finally tucking into a warm bowl of soup that feels like the coziest hug you can give yourself. This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup brings together all the best comfort-food vibes with minimal effort—just set it in your slow cooker and let those flavors meld while you go about your day. The gentle simmer of chicken broth, herbs, and vegetables transforms into a rich, soul-soothing elixir that’s perfect for chilly evenings, quick weeknight dinners, or anytime you need a little boost of homey goodness. With only 15 minutes of prep and the crockpot doing all the heavy lifting for up to 7 hours, even absolute beginners can look like kitchen rock stars.
What really makes this recipe a standout is how it combines everyday ingredients—tender chicken breasts, vibrant carrots and celery, aromatic onion and garlic—with pantry staples like dried thyme, basil, and a bay leaf, all coming together in one hearty pot. The subtitle says it best: Warm up with this comforting Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion! At about 350 calories a serving, it balances that indulgent, soothing quality we crave from comfort food with the wholesome goodness of a family-friendly meal. Trust me, once you taste those seasoned egg noodles soaking up every drop of savory broth, you’ll understand why this recipe becomes a go-to for busy cooks and soup lovers alike.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CROCKPOT CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
Before diving into the slow-cooking magic, let’s walk through the key ingredients that give this soup its irresistible flavor, texture, and heartiness. These staples work together to create that classic chicken noodle experience, elevating each spoonful into something truly special.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
Provide lean protein and tender meat that shreds beautifully, infusing the broth with rich chicken flavor.
- Carrots
Add a hint of natural sweetness and vibrant color; their soft texture brings body to the soup.
- Celery
Lends a subtle earthy note and crunchy snap that holds up well in the long cooking time.
- Onion
Builds foundational flavor; its savory aroma melds into the broth, creating depth with every stir.
- Garlic
Brings bright, pungent warmth that lingers on the palate and complements the herbs.
- Chicken Broth
Forms the soul of the soup; choose a good-quality, low-sodium option to control seasoning.
- Dried Thyme
Offers a gentle, woodsy fragrance that harmonizes beautifully with chicken and vegetables.
- Dried Basil
Infuses a hint of sweet, peppery undertones, rounding out the herbal profile.
- Salt
Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavors and makes the soup truly sing.
- Black Pepper
Delivers a subtle kick and aromatic edge that balances the soup’s mellow richness.
- Bay Leaf
Imparts a mild, herbal complexity; remember to remove it before serving.
- Egg Noodles
Absorb the flavorful broth and add satisfying bite; their tender chew makes each spoonful hearty.
- Fresh Parsley (optional)
Sprinkled on top, it provides a pop of green freshness and light herbal lift.
- Lemon Juice (optional)
A small squeeze brightens the entire soup, adding a zesty, refreshing finish.
HOW TO MAKE CROCKPOT CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
Let’s get you through the simple steps of turning those ingredients into a warm, comforting meal. Follow along closely, and you’ll have a luscious pot of soup that practically slurps itself.
1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, then layer the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top. This layering technique ensures even cooking and lets the vegetables infuse the chicken with flavor.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables and chicken in the crockpot, covering everything until it’s just submerged. This helps create a rich, well-seasoned base.
3. Add the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to the crockpot. Gently stir to combine all the seasonings, making sure the herbs and spices disperse evenly.
4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and super tender. The slow, gentle heat is key to building deep flavor.
5. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks, pulling apart the fibers into bite-size pieces that soak up more broth.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring it into the vegetables and broth so every piece is coated.
7. Add the egg noodles to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy. Keep the lid slightly ajar if there’s risk of overflow.
8. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice (if using) just before serving. This final bright touch enhances the overall flavor and adds a fresh pop.
9. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced.
10. Serve hot, ladling into bowls and watching the steam rise as you enjoy your warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CROCKPOT CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
Once your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is ready, it’s time to think about presentation and pairing. Serving this soup thoughtfully can elevate a simple meal into a memorable dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family lunch, an informal dinner with friends, or a solitary evening treat, these ideas will help you present your creation like a pro and savor every spoonful.
- Rustic Bread Pairing
Serve the soup alongside warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. Tear or slice the bread, then butter generously so every bite soaks up the savory broth.
- Cheese Garnish
Top each bowl with a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar. The melting cheese adds a creamy texture and extra savory depth.
- Herb-Infused Oil Drizzle
Whisk olive oil with extra chopped parsley and a hint of lemon zest, then drizzle over the soup just before serving to add a fresh, fragrant finish.
- Fresh Salad Side
Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The crunchy greens and bright dressing balance the soup’s hearty warmth.
HOW TO STORE CROCKPOT CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
Knowing how to properly store your homemade soup ensures you can enjoy it again without losing that fresh-cooked taste. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers, careful storage will keep textures and flavors at their best. Follow these tips to maintain the rich broth, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles.
- Refrigeration
Cool the soup to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, stirring before reheating to redistribute the ingredients.
- Freezing
For longer storage, use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible, label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Separate Components
If you prefer to avoid soggy noodles, store the broth and shredded chicken in one container and the cooked noodles in another. Combine and heat gently when you’re ready to serve.
- Gentle Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems thick, and heat only until warmed through to preserve texture.
CONCLUSION
This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe has all the hallmarks of a true comfort classic: tender shredded chicken, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned egg noodles, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. From its beginner-friendly preparation—just 15 minutes of chopping and layering—to the low-maintenance cooking time of 6 to 7 hours, it’s ideal for busy cooks seeking a wholesome, family-approved meal. Serving suggestions like crusty bread, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a crisp side salad help you present it with flair, while simple storage tips mean you can enjoy it again and again without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder, or save it digitally for future cozy nights in. You’ll find a handy FAQ below for troubleshooting common questions, but I also welcome your own comments, questions, or feedback. Did you experiment with a parmesan rind or switch up the noodles? Let me know how it went or if you run into any dancing bay leaves during your next soup session. Happy cooking, and may every bowl bring warmth and smiles to your table!
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Description
This hearty soup is loaded with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and seasoned noodles, simmered to perfection in your crockpot for that ultimate cozy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, then layer the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic on top.
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Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables and chicken in the crockpot.
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Add the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
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Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
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Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
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Add the egg noodles to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
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Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice (if using) just before serving.
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Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste if needed.
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Serve hot, and enjoy your warm bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup.
Note
- For extra flavor, you can add a parmesan rind to the soup during cooking.
- Experiment with different noodle types like rotini or pappardelle.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months; just reheat thoroughly before serving.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or corn for additional nutrients.
