Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe - Classic Comfort Food from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a cozy night in or when you're feeling under the weather. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

History

Chicken noodle soup has been a staple in many households for generations. It is believed to have originated in Europe, with variations of the recipe being passed down through families over the years. The slow cooking method used in this recipe allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delicious and hearty soup.

Ingredients

1 large onion, chopped
3 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
0.5 tsp basil
0.25 tsp thyme leaves
Handful of fresh parsley, chopped
2.5 to 3 lb (1.36 kg) whole fryer chicken, cut up
4 cups chicken broth or more as needed
1 cup noodles
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Place all ingredients in crock pot in the order listed, except for the noodles.
Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours.
One hour before serving, remove the chicken and let it cool slightly.
Remove the meat from the bones and return the meat to the crock pot.
If necessary, add more broth.
Add the noodles.
Turn the heat to high.
Cover and cook until the noodles are done, which should take about 30 minutes.

Variations

Add in additional vegetables such as peas, corn, or green beans.
Use different herbs and spices such as rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Substitute the chicken for turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add extra flavor to the soup, try browning the chicken before adding it to the crockpot.

- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.

- Feel free to add in additional vegetables such as peas or corn for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The slow cooking method used in this recipe allows the flavors to develop and the chicken to become tender. This results in a flavorful and comforting soup that is perfect for a cold day.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can use different vegetables, herbs, or protein sources to create a unique version of this classic dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a delicious and comforting meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the noodles and may contain allergens from the chicken broth. Please check labels for specific allergen information.

Summary

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a comforting meal.

Summary

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy a warm bowl of this delicious soup on a cold day for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a cold winter day, and I was searching for something comforting to make for dinner. As I flipped through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother, I came across a recipe for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup.

I had never made soup in a crockpot before, but the idea of being able to throw everything in one pot and let it simmer all day sounded incredibly appealing. Plus, there was something about the combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and savory broth that just spoke to me. I knew I had to give it a try.

The recipe called for simple ingredients – chicken breasts, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and egg noodles. As I gathered everything together, I couldn't help but think about all the different sources and people that had contributed to my collection of recipes over the years.

I remembered my mother teaching me how to chop vegetables properly, my aunt sharing her secret for making the perfect chicken broth, and my neighbor showing me how to adjust seasonings to taste. Each little tidbit of knowledge had been passed down to me, and now I was putting them all to use in this new recipe.

I started by browning the chicken breasts in a hot skillet, letting them develop a nice golden crust before transferring them to the crockpot. Next, I added in the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic, letting them sauté until they were fragrant and softened.

Once everything was in the crockpot, I poured in the chicken broth and set it to low, letting it simmer away for the next few hours. The smell that filled my kitchen was absolutely heavenly – a warm, comforting aroma that promised a delicious meal to come.

As the soup cooked, I couldn't help but think about all the memories I had tied to cooking and sharing food with loved ones. I remembered the countless family gatherings where we would all gather around the table, laughing and talking as we enjoyed a meal together.

I thought about the times when I had cooked for friends who were going through a tough time, using food as a way to show them love and support. And I thought about the quiet moments spent in the kitchen with my own grandmother, learning from her and soaking up every bit of wisdom she had to offer.

By the time the soup was ready, I was practically salivating with anticipation. I added in the egg noodles and let them cook until tender, then ladled the steaming soup into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

The first spoonful was pure bliss – tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that warmed me from the inside out. It was everything I had hoped for and more, a true comfort food that hit all the right notes.

As I sat down to enjoy my bowl of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, I couldn't help but feel grateful for all the knowledge and love that had gone into creating this simple yet satisfying dish. It was a reminder that food isn't just about sustenance – it's about connection, tradition, and the joy of sharing something homemade with the ones you love.

And as I savored each spoonful, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection, to be passed down and shared with future generations. After all, cooking is more than just following a set of instructions – it's about creating something special that brings people together, one delicious meal at a time.