Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Slow cooker chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food. Made with tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this classic soup simmers gently all day, filling your home with warmth and inviting aromas. Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop slowly, resulting in a deeply satisfying soup with minimal effort.
Perfect for chilly evenings, meal prep, or when you’re feeling under the weather, this slow cooker chicken noodle soup is nourishing, easy, and timeless.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Hands-off slow cooker method
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Tender, juicy chicken every time
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Rich, flavorful broth
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Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
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Family-friendly and comforting
This recipe is simple enough for beginners but delivers classic homemade flavor.
Ingredients
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1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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8 cups chicken broth
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3 carrots, sliced
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3 celery stalks, sliced
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
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½ teaspoon dried rosemary
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
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2 cups egg noodles
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Add Ingredients
Place chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, rosemary, pepper, and olive oil into the slow cooker. Pour chicken broth over the top.
Step 2: Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Stir in the egg noodles. Cover and cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Stir in lemon juice if using. Taste and adjust salt as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Chicken Noodle Soup
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Add noodles near the end to prevent mushiness
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Chicken thighs add extra richness, breasts stay lean
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Lemon juice brightens the broth
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Skim excess fat if needed before serving
Variations
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Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup cream at the end
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Extra Veggies: Add peas, corn, or spinach
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles or rice
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Herby: Add fresh thyme or bay leaf
Storage and Freezing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For freezing, freeze the soup without noodles for up to 3 months, then add fresh noodles when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread, biscuits, or crackers for a complete meal. A simple side salad pairs well for added freshness.
Final Thoughts
Slow cooker chicken noodle soup is a classic for a reason. With its comforting flavors, tender chicken, and simple preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for your family or soothing a cold, this soup delivers warmth in every spoonful.