Crockpot Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Ingredients:
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3 chicken breasts, cooked and cubed
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Provides protein and hearty texture to the soup.
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5 cups chicken broth/stock
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Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
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2 tablespoons butter
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Adds richness and depth to the soup.
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1 cup chopped onions
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Adds sweetness and flavor to the soup base.
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2 cups carrots, sliced
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For added sweetness, texture, and nutrients.
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1 cup celery, chopped
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Adds freshness and crunch to the soup.
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2 cups egg noodles
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The classic choice for chicken noodle soup, adding texture and heartiness.
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1 cup heavy cream
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To make the soup creamy and rich.
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Salt and pepper to taste
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For seasoning the soup and balancing the flavors.
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Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken:
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Cook and cube the chicken breasts. You can either cook the chicken on the stove, bake it, or use leftover cooked chicken. Shred or cube it as desired.
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Set up the Crockpot:
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In a slow cooker, add the cooked and cubed chicken, chicken broth/stock, chopped onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery.
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Add Butter and Seasoning:
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Add the butter, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
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Cook the Soup:
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Cover and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
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Add the Noodles:
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About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles to the crockpot and stir. Let them cook in the soup until tender.
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Add the Cream:
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Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the heavy cream to make the soup creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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Serve:
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Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Benefits:
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Comforting and Nutritious: This soup is rich in protein from the chicken and provides plenty of vitamins and fiber from the carrots, celery, and onions.
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Creamy and Hearty: The addition of heavy cream makes the soup velvety and filling.
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Perfect for Cold Weather: The warm, comforting nature of chicken noodle soup makes it a great choice for cozy, cold days.
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Easy to Make: The crockpot method makes this a hands-off meal that’s perfect for busy days.
Nutritional Info (Approximate per Serving):
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Calories: 300-350 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 20-25 g
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Protein: 30-35 g
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Fat: 15-18 g
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Fiber: 2-3 g
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Sodium: 600-800 mg
Tips:
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Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or use milk instead.
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Freezing: This soup freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little more broth if it thickens.
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Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for extra flavor and color.
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Make Ahead: This soup is perfect for making ahead. The flavors deepen after sitting in the fridge overnight, so it’s even better the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A):
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to cook the soup on high for a little longer, around 4-5 hours, to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Q2: Can I add noodles earlier in the cooking process?
A2: It’s best to add the noodles about 30 minutes before the soup is done to avoid overcooking them and turning them mushy.
Q3: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A3: Yes! If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use any small pasta like rotini, small shells, or bowties. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q4: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A4: This recipe is not gluten-free due to the egg noodles. You can substitute gluten-free pasta if needed.
Q5: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A5: Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.