Easy Crockpot Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

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Hey guys! Today, we're diving into a super comforting and incredibly easy recipe: Crockpot Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup. This is the perfect meal for those chilly days when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, dump everything in the crockpot, and let it do its magic! Let's get started!

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

There's so much to love about this creamy chicken noodle soup. First off, it's ridiculously easy. We're talking minimal prep time here. You can toss all the ingredients into your crockpot before you head out for the day, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat dinner. No need to babysit the stove or worry about burning anything. — Gypsy Rose Blanchard: Inside The Crime Scene

Secondly, the flavor is incredible. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and comforting soup that tastes like it's been simmering for hours. Plus, the creamy texture adds an extra layer of indulgence that makes it feel extra special. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, seriously!

Another great thing? It's versatile. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add more veggies, swap out the noodles, or adjust the seasonings to make it your own. It's a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or veggies you have in the fridge. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

And let’s not forget about the convenience factor. Using a crockpot means fewer dishes to wash! Just one pot to clean up after dinner. Talk about a win-win. This recipe is also great for meal prepping. You can make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s a healthy and hearty option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. So, if you’re looking for an easy, delicious, and comforting meal, this crockpot creamy chicken noodle soup is definitely the way to go.

Ingredients You'll Need

To whip up this amazing soup, you're going to need a few key ingredients. Don't worry, most of them are pantry staples, so you probably have them on hand already!

  • Chicken: I usually use about 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer, but breasts tend to work best for shredding. Seriously, it's your call!
  • Noodles: Egg noodles are the classic choice for chicken noodle soup, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Rotini, penne, or even gluten-free noodles work just fine. Make sure to cook them according to the package directions before adding them to the crockpot.
  • Veggies: A mix of carrots, celery, and onion is the base for this soup. You can also add other veggies like peas, corn, or potatoes if you like. Get creative!
  • Broth: Chicken broth is essential for that rich, chicken-y flavor. I recommend using low-sodium broth so you can control the amount of salt in the soup. You can also use homemade broth if you're feeling fancy.
  • Cream: To make this soup extra creamy, you'll need some heavy cream or half-and-half. You can also use a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream if you prefer. Add it at the end for the best texture.
  • Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like thyme and bay leaf add depth and flavor to the soup. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little kick, too!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, let's get cooking! Here’s how to make this delicious crockpot creamy chicken noodle soup, step by step. Trust me, it's so easy, even a beginner cook can nail it!

  1. Prep the Chicken and Veggies: First, place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Roughly chop the carrots, celery, and onion, and add them to the crockpot as well. No need to be too precise with the chopping – the slow cooker will soften everything up.
  2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and veggies. Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the broth. Add your seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and a bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to combine.
  3. Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and easily shreddable. Cooking it low and slow really helps to develop the flavors.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
  5. Add Cooked Noodles: Stir in the cooked egg noodles. Make sure they’re fully submerged in the broth. If you add uncooked noodles, they’ll soak up too much liquid and the soup will be too thick.
  6. Stir in Cream: Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir until well combined. This is what gives the soup that luscious, creamy texture. If you're using a dairy-free alternative, add it at this point as well.
  7. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or herbs to brighten up the flavor.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and delicious meal! It’s perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations

Want to take your crockpot creamy chicken noodle soup to the next level? Here are a few tips and variations to try!

  • Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like peas, corn, potatoes, or spinach. Just toss them in with the other ingredients at the beginning of the cooking process. Spinach should be added in the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
  • Use Different Noodles: Experiment with different types of noodles like rotini, penne, or even gluten-free noodles. Just make sure to cook them separately and add them to the crockpot at the end.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. You can also use spicy sausage instead of chicken for a spicier version.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option. These alternatives add a similar creaminess without the dairy.
  • Add Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavor of the soup. Add it right before serving for the best results.
  • Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. Just shred the chicken and add it to the crockpot with the other ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

While it's best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken in a pinch. Just add an extra hour or two to the cooking time to ensure it's fully cooked. — Donald Andy McClurkin Sr.: A Detailed Look

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes, you can! Just sauté the veggies in a large pot, then add the chicken, broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Shred the chicken, add the cooked noodles and cream, and heat through.

How long does the soup last in the fridge?

This soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup, but the noodles may become a bit mushy when thawed. To minimize this, cook the noodles al dente and add them to the soup right before freezing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.

There you have it – an easy crockpot creamy chicken noodle soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! — How Much Was $75 In 1858 Worth Today?