Soup season savior: unveil the secrets of crock pot chicken noodle soup

Indulge in the comforting aroma and savory flavors of homemade chicken noodle soup, conveniently prepared in your trusty crock pot. This culinary masterpiece is a timeless classic, perfect for soothing sore throats, warming up on chilly evenings, or simply enjoying a nourishing meal. Follow our step-by-step guide to master the art of creating this comforting dish in your slow cooker.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3-4 celery stalks, sliced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup egg noodles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.

2. Brown the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown. This step is optional but adds flavor and color to the soup.

3. Transfer to Crock Pot: Place the seared chicken in the crock pot.

4. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the crock pot.

5. Pour in Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables.

6. Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste.

7. Cook: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

8. Add Noodles: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the egg noodles to the soup.

9. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Tips for a Perfect Soup

• Use a Rotisserie Chicken: For a shortcut, use a rotisserie chicken instead of cooking one whole. Simply remove the meat from the bones and add it to the crock pot.
• Add Flavorings: Enhance the soup’s flavor with additional seasonings such as bay leaves, thyme, or rosemary.
• Control the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more noodles or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
• Freeze for Later: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Variations

• Vegetable-Packed Soup: Add additional vegetables such as peas, green beans, or mushrooms.
• Creamy Soup: Puree a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender for a creamy texture.
• Spicy Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Benefits of Chicken Noodle Soup

• Soothing for Sore Throats: The warm broth and steam help to soothe sore throats and clear nasal congestion.
• Hydrating: The broth provides essential fluids, especially beneficial during illness or cold weather.
• Nutrient-Rich: Chicken noodle soup is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
• Comforting and Nostalgic: The familiar taste and aroma of chicken noodle soup brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia.

FAQ

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will take longer to cook. Thaw the chicken completely before adding it to the crock pot.
• Can I add other ingredients to the soup? Yes, you can experiment with different vegetables, noodles, or seasonings to customize the soup to your liking.
• How do I make the soup thicker? Add more noodles or a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup.
• Can I use different types of noodles? Yes, you can use any type of noodles you prefer, such as pasta, rice noodles, or egg noodles.
• How long can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.