Few things warm the heart quite like a bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken Soup. Brimming with succulent chicken, wholesome veggies, and an aromatic broth, this comforting classic comes together almost effortlessly thanks to your trusty slow cooker. Whether you’re chasing away the chills, fueling up your family, or simply seeking a dose of nostalgia, this soup encapsulates everything we love about home-cooked comfort. The best part? Your house will be filled with the irresistible aroma all day, welcoming you home to a pot of tender, flavorful goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to an unforgettable Slow Cooker Chicken Soup lies in fresh, simple ingredients, each adding a unique layer of taste, color, and texture. These kitchen staples work together to create a soup that’s savory, nourishing, and deeply satisfying.
- Chicken (1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless breasts or thighs): The star of the show, giving the soup hearty protein and amazing flavor as it gently cooks until tender.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (4 cups): A savory, flavor-packed base that lets the natural taste of the chicken and veggies shine without becoming too salty.
- Water (2 cups): Helps balance the richness of the broth, ensuring a lighter, more sippable soup.
- Carrots (3, peeled and sliced): Offer subtle sweetness and beautiful color that brighten every bite.
- Celery (2 stalks, sliced): Infuse the soup with a satisfying crunch and classic earthy depth.
- Onion (1 small, chopped): Lends savory-sweet, aromatic undertones that round out the flavor profile.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings a cozy, mellow heat that quietly infuses every spoonful.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant, woodsy note that makes the soup taste homey and robust.
- Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Offers a pop of herby green freshness in each bowl.
- Bay leaf (1): Provides subtle depth and complexity, like a secret ingredient no one can quite place.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): The final flourish, bringing all the flavors into perfect balance.
- Egg noodles or pasta (1 cup, optional): Turns the soup into a more filling meal—feel free to leave out for a lower-carb version.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Lively color and freshness for that finishing touch.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Soup
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by setting out all your ingredients. Give your veggies a rinse and a quick chop. This step ensures the soup gets started smoothly and that you don’t have to scramble for a missing carrot while the slow cooker works its magic later.
Step 2: Fill the Slow Cooker
Add the chicken pieces, chicken broth, water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, dried thyme, parsley, bay leaf, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper directly into your slow cooker. There’s no need to brown the chicken first—one of the joys of Slow Cooker Chicken Soup is its fuss-free assembly!
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Place the lid on your slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 8 hours (or high for 3 to 4 hours). As the soup simmers, the chicken becomes meltingly tender, and the vegetables infuse the broth with flavor. You won’t be able to resist taking a peek as your kitchen fills with the unforgettable aroma of homemade chicken soup.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, lift it out onto a plate. Shred the meat with two forks into bite-sized pieces—don’t forget to sneak a taste! Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker for the final stage.
Step 5: Add Noodles (Optional)
If you’d like to include noodles (or another small pasta of your choice), add them to the slow cooker about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve. This gives them just enough time to cook to al dente perfection without getting mushy. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf and taste for any final seasoning adjustments.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Soup
Garnishes
A handful of freshly chopped parsley sprinkled over each bowl instantly brightens the look and adds a pop of fresh flavor. Feeling adventurous? Try a squeeze of lemon, a crack of black pepper, or even a swirl of extra-virgin olive oil for a little extra pizzazz.
Side Dishes
Pair your Slow Cooker Chicken Soup with a slice of crusty bread (or gluten-free rolls if you’re skipping the noodles), a light salad, or a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The soup’s delicate yet hearty flavors pair wonderfully with just about anything.
Creative Ways to Present
Set out a soup “bar” with extra toppings: think shredded cheese, chili flakes, or even a dollop of sour cream. For an extra-cozy touch, serve the soup in wide mugs or small bread bowls. This makes family dinner or entertaining feel just a bit more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Soup stores beautifully. Simply let the soup cool, then transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen and improve overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even more enticing!
Freezing
If you want to freeze the soup, leave out the noodles (since they can turn mushy when reheated). Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving an inch of space at the top for expansion. It’ll keep for up to three months, ready for stress-free dinners on a busy night.
Reheating
Warm your soup on the stove over gentle heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. If you froze the soup, let it thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Bring it just up to a simmer before serving—never let good chicken soup boil!
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using bone-in pieces gives the broth extra richness and flavor. Just make sure to remove the bones and skin before returning the shredded chicken to the soup.
How can I make this Slow Cooker Chicken Soup gluten-free?
Simply skip the noodles or use your favorite gluten-free pasta. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it super easy to adapt.
What vegetables can I add for variety?
Feel free to stir in classic peas, sweet corn, or even chopped spinach or kale during the last half hour of cooking. Just avoid veggies that break down too much, like zucchini.
Can I prep this Slow Cooker Chicken Soup in advance?
Definitely! You can chop all the vegetables and measure out the spices a day ahead. Store everything in the fridge so you just need to tip it into the slow cooker first thing in the morning.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
When it easily shreds apart with two forks and is opaque throughout, your chicken is perfectly cooked. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer—a reading of 165°F tells you it’s ready.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for an easy, nourishing meal that’s sure to lift spirits, Slow Cooker Chicken Soup is pure magic in a bowl. No matter the season or occasion, give this recipe a go and enjoy the heartwarming taste (and incredible aroma) that only homemade chicken soup can bring. Happy slow cooking!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that is perfect for any day of the week. Packed with tender chicken, a variety of vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. The best part? It’s all made in the slow cooker, making it a convenient and easy dinner option.
Ingredients
Chicken Soup:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Additional:
- 1 cup egg noodles or pasta (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Soup: Place the chicken, chicken broth, water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper into a slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add Noodles: If using noodles, add them about 30 minutes before serving and cook until tender.
- Finish: Discard the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a richer broth, use bone-in chicken pieces.
- Add other vegetables like peas or corn for variety.
- Skip noodles to keep the soup low-carb.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
