Introduction
Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for chilly days. This creamy and delicious recipe uses the convenience of a slow cooker to transform simple ingredients into a warm and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking for an easy dinner solution, this soup is sure to become a favorite household staple.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breasts – 1 pound
Carrots – 2 medium, sliced
Celery – 2 stalks, sliced
Onion – 1 small, diced
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Chicken broth – 4 cups
Cream of chicken soup – 10.5 ounces
Egg noodles – 2 cups
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Parsley – for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 6 to 8 hours on low
Total Time – 6 to 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield – 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the raw chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Add Vegetables
Layer the chopped carrots, celery, and onion on top of the chicken.
Pour in Broth
Add the chicken broth over the vegetables and chicken.
Season the Mixture
Sprinkle the thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the contents in the crockpot.
Cook the Soup
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.
Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
Add Noodles and Cream
Stir in the egg noodles and heavy cream.
Cook Noodles
Cover the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked to your desired tenderness.
Check Consistency
If the soup is too thick, you can add more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Notes
Chicken Options
You can use rotisserie chicken to save time; just add it towards the end of cooking.
No Heavy Cream
If you prefer a lighter version, you can use milk instead of heavy cream.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Freezing Advice
This soup can be frozen, but the noodles may change texture when reheated. Consider adding fresh noodles when serving after freezing.
Cook techniques
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing is a method of cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over high heat. This technique is effective for developing flavors in the vegetables before they are added to the soup.
Simmering
Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This technique helps the flavors to meld together in the soup while keeping the ingredients tender.
Using a Slow Cooker
A slow cooker allows for low and slow cooking. Foods can be cooked over several hours at low temperatures, which results in deep flavors and tenderness.
Shredding Cooked Chicken
Shredding cooked chicken can be done easily with two forks or by using a hand mixer. This technique ensures that the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the soup.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will require longer cooking time in the slow cooker.
What can I substitute for egg noodles?
You can substitute egg noodles with other types of pasta, or even with rice for a different texture.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta or rice and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, peas, or celery.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and hearty meal that is incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, rich broth, and creamy noodles makes it a family favorite, perfect for chilly evenings. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the stomach, making it a delightful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Combine chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, and your choice of vegetables for a cheesy and filling casserole.
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Swap out chicken for beef and create a rich stroganoff by mixing beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce served over egg noodles.
Vegetable and Lentil Soup
For a vegetarian option, make a flavorful soup by combining lentils, mixed vegetables, and spices in the slow cooker.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Transform the creamy chicken soup into a zesty tortilla version by adding diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and spices, topped with tortilla strips.
Classic Tomato Soup
Prepare a simple and comforting tomato soup by blending tomatoes, garlic, and basil, then adding cream for richness.
Barbecue Pulled Chicken
Use the same chicken base but mix in barbecue sauce for a delicious pulled chicken that pairs perfectly with buns or salads.
