Nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup, especially when it's been slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. This classic dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you're looking for a meal to soothe a cold or a wholesome family dinner, this crockpot chicken noodle soup is a must-try! Keep reading to learn the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and essential tips to make your soup absolutely perfect.

What is Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup?
Crockpot chicken noodle soup is a slow-cooked version of the traditional chicken noodle soup. It is made by simmering ingredients like chicken, vegetables, noodles, and broth in a crockpot over several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together for a rich, savory dish. Using a crockpot means you can set it, forget it, and come back hours later to a ready-to-serve meal.
Ingredients List for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this flavorful soup:
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They are tender, easy to shred, and soak up all the rich flavors from the broth.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and vibrant color. Slice them thinly for quicker cooking.
- Celery – A traditional component in chicken soup that provides a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
- Onion – A key aromatic that deepens the soup’s flavor. You can use white or yellow onions.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic will give the soup a delicious aromatic boost.
- Chicken Broth – Opt for low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the salt levels.
- Egg Noodles – These wide, hearty noodles are perfect for soaking up the broth. You can substitute with another pasta type if needed.
- Bay Leaf – Adds subtle, earthy undertones to the broth.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste. You can adjust the seasoning once the soup has fully cooked.
- Fresh Herbs – Parsley or thyme will add freshness and brightness to the soup.
Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Lemon Juice – A small squeeze of lemon juice at the end of cooking brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing tang.
- Parmesan Cheese – For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese when serving.
- Dried Herbs – A teaspoon of dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary can enhance the herbal notes.
- Butter – For a creamier texture, you can melt a tablespoon of butter into the broth before serving.
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of crockpot chicken noodle soup is that it’s highly adaptable. Here are some substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Chicken – You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result. If you prefer dark meat, using thighs will provide more flavor and richness to the soup. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time; just add it during the last hour of cooking.
- Noodles – Egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to use any type of pasta you like. For a healthier option, try whole wheat noodles, or for a gluten-free version, use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
- Vegetables – In addition to carrots and celery, you can add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or peas. Leafy greens can be stirred in toward the end of the cooking process.
- Spices – Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or turmeric for a golden, anti-inflammatory boost.
- Low-Carb Option – If you're looking for a low-carb variation, skip the noodles and use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles instead.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making crockpot chicken noodle soup is as simple as layering the ingredients and letting time do the work for you. Here's a detailed step-by-step guide to help you get it right.

How to Cook Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, wash and chop the vegetables. Slice the carrots and celery into bite-sized pieces and dice the onion. Mince the garlic and set aside. Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs.
Step 2: Layer the Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your crockpot. Next, add the chopped carrots, celery, onions, and garlic on top of the chicken. This layering helps the chicken absorb the flavors as it cooks.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is submerged. Add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper. You can also add any additional herbs or seasonings at this point, such as dried thyme or oregano.
Step 4: Cook on Low
Set your crockpot to the low setting and cook for 6-8 hours. Alternatively, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours if you're short on time. The key is to allow the flavors to slowly meld together and the chicken to become tender and easy to shred.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is complete, use tongs to carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Shred the chicken using two forks, then return the shredded meat to the crockpot.
Step 6: Add the Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure the noodles cook evenly. If the noodles absorb too much liquid, you can add an extra cup of broth or water to maintain the soup’s consistency.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the salt, pepper, and any other seasonings to your preference. At this stage, you can also stir in a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh pop of flavor or a knob of butter for richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding Noodles Too Early – If you add the noodles too soon, they can become mushy and overcooked. Be sure to add them toward the end of cooking to preserve their texture.
- Not Shredding the Chicken – Shredding the chicken helps distribute it throughout the soup and ensures that every bite is filled with flavor.
- Using Low-Quality Broth – Since the broth is the base of the soup, using a high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth is essential for the best flavor.
- Forgetting to Taste and Adjust Seasonings – Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving crockpot chicken noodle soup is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Here are some tips to elevate your presentation:
- Serve with Fresh Herbs – Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or thyme to add color and enhance the flavor.
- Ladle Generously – Make sure each serving has a good balance of broth, chicken, noodles, and vegetables.
- Accompany with Bread – Serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
- Add a Lemon Wedge – Place a lemon wedge on the side for those who enjoy a touch of brightness in their soup.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Crockpot chicken noodle soup is best served hot, straight from the crockpot. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or even meal prepping for the week. Simply ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with your favorite side dishes.
Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
- Rustic Bowls – Use deep, rustic-style bowls for a comforting, farmhouse feel.
- Soup Tureens – For a more formal presentation, serve the soup from a decorative soup tureen at the center of the table.
- Top with Fresh Cracked Pepper – Just before serving, add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for a gourmet touch.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Tips
- Double the Recipe – Crockpot chicken noodle soup freezes well. Double the recipe and freeze half in individual portions for easy, ready-to-eat meals.
- Thicken the Broth – If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the soup toward the end of cooking.
- Boost the Flavor – For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of soy sauce or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftover chicken noodle soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I add cream to make the soup creamy?
A: Yes, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half toward the end of cooking for a creamy version of chicken noodle soup.
Conclusion
This crockpot chicken noodle soup recipe is perfect for anyone seeking comfort in a bowl. It’s a simple, nutritious meal that requires minimal effort but delivers big on flavor. Whether you're feeling under the weather or simply craving a wholesome dinner, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Be sure to try the variations and tips shared here to make it your own!
PrintCrockpot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and egg noodles in a savory broth. A perfect comforting meal for chilly days, it’s made easily in the slow cooker. The crockpot ensures the chicken stays moist, and the flavors blend beautifully over hours of cooking. Ideal for meal prep or a family dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hour
- Total Time: 6 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Carrots, celery, onion
- Garlic
- Chicken broth
- Egg noodles
- Thyme, bay leaf, parsley
- Salt, pepper
Instructions
- Add chicken, vegetables, garlic, broth, and seasoning to the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove chicken, shred, and return to the pot.
- Add noodles and cook for another 20-30 minutes until tender.
- Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- For added richness, stir in a little butter or cream at the end.
- Use gluten-free noodles to make this dish gluten-friendly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
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