Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

by

🍲 Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

📖 Description

Slow Cooker Chicken Soup is a comforting, nourishing dish made by gently simmering chicken, vegetables, herbs, and broth over several hours. The slow cooking process allows flavors to fully develop while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. It’s perfect for cold days, busy schedules, or when you need a soothing, wholesome meal.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)

  • Total Time: Up to 8 hours

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 6 people

  • Serving Size: ~1½ cups per serving

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

  • 2 medium carrots, sliced

  • 2 celery stalks, sliced

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 cup egg noodles or rice (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for richness)

  • Fresh parsley or lemon juice for garnish (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Chop vegetables and trim chicken if needed.

  2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Add chicken to the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.

  3. Season: Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, parsley, and add the bay leaf.

  4. Add Liquid: Pour chicken broth over everything.

  5. Cook:

    • Low: 6–8 hours

    • High: 3–4 hours

  6. Shred Chicken: Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker.

  7. Add Noodles/Rice (Optional): Add during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.

  8. Finish: Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and garnish if desired. Serve hot.

📝 Notes

  • Chicken thighs yield a richer flavor, while breasts are leaner.

  • Add noodles late to prevent them from becoming mushy.

  • Soup thickens slightly as it cools.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Use low-sodium broth so you can control salt levels.

  • Add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten flavors.

  • For extra depth, sauté onions and garlic before adding (optional).

  • Store noodles separately if planning leftovers.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)

  • Calories: 210 kcal

  • Protein: 24 g

  • Fat: 6 g

  • Carbohydrates: 12 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Sodium: 480 mg

(Values vary depending on ingredients and portions.)

🌱 Health Benefits

  • Immune Support: Warm broth and garlic may help soothe cold symptoms.

  • High Protein: Supports muscle repair and satiety.

  • Hydrating: Broth-based soups help maintain hydration.

  • Easy to Digest: Gentle on the stomach, ideal when feeling unwell.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F / 74°C).

Q: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
A: Absolutely—use rice or gluten-free noodles.

Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, freeze for up to 3 months (best without noodles).

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Definitely! Potatoes, zucchini, spinach, or peas work well.

Leave a Comment