When you’re craving a warm, soothing bowl of chicken noodle soup but want the ease of a set-it-and-forget-it meal, this Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is the answer. It’s loaded with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and comforting noodles, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. Whether you’re fighting a cold or just looking for a cozy dinner, this recipe brings all the comfort with minimal effort. Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, let it simmer, and you’ll have a wholesome, homemade chicken noodle soup ready to enjoy.
In this article, we’ll cover the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, common mistakes to avoid, and tips to make the best crockpot chicken noodle soup. Let’s dive into this delicious and easy recipe!
What is Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a simple, comforting soup made with chicken, noodles, vegetables, and broth—all cooked low and slow in a crockpot. The slow cooking process helps infuse the broth with rich flavors, while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. This recipe takes the classic chicken noodle soup and makes it even easier, giving you a delicious homemade meal without much hands-on time.
Ingredients List for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious pot of Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup:
For the Soup:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs offer a bit more flavor and tenderness.
- 8 cups chicken broth: Homemade or store-bought, low-sodium preferred so you can control the seasoning.
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced: Carrots add sweetness and color to the soup.
- 3 celery stalks, sliced: Adds a mild, savory flavor and crunch.
- 1 medium onion, diced: For flavor depth and sweetness.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the soup with a warm, aromatic flavor.
- 2 bay leaves: Adds a subtle earthiness to the broth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Works wonderfully with chicken and gives a savory herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a fresh, bright flavor to the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 2 cups egg noodles (uncooked): These will be added towards the end of cooking so they don’t get too soft.
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor when serving.
Substitutions and Variations
This crockpot chicken noodle soup recipe is versatile, and you can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Chicken thighs vs. breasts: If you prefer more flavor and tenderness, use chicken thighs. Chicken breasts are leaner, but both work well in this soup.
- Vegetable variations: You can add other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or peas for added nutrition.
- Noodle options: Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta, whole wheat pasta, or even orzo.
- Grain alternative: If you prefer to skip the noodles, you can substitute them with rice, quinoa, or couscous for a different twist.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill are great additions if you have them on hand. You can also adjust the amount of dried herbs based on your preference.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is easy, but following these steps carefully will ensure a delicious, flavorful soup.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Prep the vegetables: Peel and slice the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic.
- Season the chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
- Layer the ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the crockpot. Add the sliced carrots, celery, onions, and garlic on top.
- Pour in the broth: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the crockpot, making sure everything is submerged.
- Add herbs and seasonings: Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, dried parsley, and additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup
- Cook on low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender, and the vegetables should be soft.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine.
Step 5: Add the Noodles
- Add the egg noodles: Add the uncooked egg noodles to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the noodles are tender. Keep an eye on the noodles to avoid overcooking.
Step 6: Taste and Serve
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
How to Cook Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a quick guide to help you make the perfect Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup every time:
- Layer ingredients in the crockpot: Place the chicken on the bottom, followed by the vegetables and broth to ensure even cooking.
- Cook low and slow: Cooking on low for a longer period helps the chicken become tender and the flavors to meld together.
- Shred the chicken: Remove and shred the chicken once it’s cooked, then return it to the pot for the best texture.
- Add noodles towards the end: To avoid mushy noodles, add them in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is straightforward, here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Adding noodles too early: Adding the noodles too soon will result in them becoming mushy. Always wait until the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
- Overcooking the chicken: While chicken can handle long cooking times in a crockpot, be mindful not to cook it too far past the recommended time to avoid dry chicken. Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts in this regard.
- Under-seasoning: Be sure to season the soup properly. You can adjust the salt and pepper at different stages of cooking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Once your Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is ready, here are some ideas to elevate the presentation:
- Serve with crusty bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up the broth.
- With crackers: Classic saltine or oyster crackers are great with chicken noodle soup.
- Top with fresh herbs: Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a fresh, zesty touch.
- Cheese on the side: Offer some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for those who like an extra cheesy topping.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a versatile dish that can be served in several ways:
- Classic bowl: Serve the soup in deep bowls with a generous ladle of broth, chicken, and noodles.
- In a bread bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and serve the soup inside for a rustic, hearty presentation.
- With a salad: Pair the soup with a simple green salad for a light and balanced meal.
- As an appetizer: Serve smaller portions of the soup as a starter before the main meal.
Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Individual soup crocks: Serve the soup in individual soup crocks for a rustic, homestyle feel.
- Sprinkle fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top of each bowl for a vibrant, fresh presentation.
- Top with crispy croutons: Garnish with homemade or store-bought croutons for an extra crunchy texture.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Tips
- Make ahead: You can prep the vegetables and chicken the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, simply toss everything into the crockpot.
- Freezer-friendly: This soup freezes well. If you plan to freeze it, cook the soup without the noodles, then add them when reheating to avoid sogginess. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it’s too thick after refrigeration, add a little more broth or water to thin it out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly, especially if cooking on low. Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free noodles or substitute them with rice or quinoa. Also, ensure that your broth is gluten-free.
3. Can I
use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken. Add it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking, just before adding the noodles.
4. How can I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
To prevent mushy noodles, add them during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, cook the noodles separately and add them to individual bowls when serving.
5. How long does chicken noodle soup last in the fridge?
The soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and soft noodles, this soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially during colder months or when you’re feeling under the weather. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for your family, or simply craving a cozy dinner, this easy slow-cooker recipe is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and enjoy a delicious homemade soup with minimal effort!
PrintCrockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe delivers a hearty, flavorful soup filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and noodles. Slow-cooked to perfection, this simple and delicious meal is perfect for chilly days or when you need a comforting, homemade dish. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it simmer to create a satisfying soup everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In the crockpot, add chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth.
- Season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the crockpot.
- Stir in egg noodles and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.
Notes
- For a creamier version, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time—just add it 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
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