Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Hearty and Simple Meal
Are you looking for a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to make? Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is just what you need! With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and flavorful herbs, this dish brings joy to every bowl. I’ll guide you through each step, from selecting your ingredients to proper storage. Let’s dive into this hearty and simple recipe that warms your heart and fills your stomach!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups carrots, sliced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
For this soup, I love using boneless skinless chicken breasts. They cook well and stay tender. Low-sodium chicken broth and water create a rich base. Fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and onion add color and flavor. Garlic gives it a nice kick.
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
I use dried thyme and oregano for a warm taste. A bay leaf adds depth to the soup. Salt and pepper help balance the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley on top makes the dish pop. It’s easy to prepare, and the flavors blend beautifully as it cooks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Slow Cooker
– Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
– Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and water.
– Add the sliced carrots, diced celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
– Sprinkle in the dried thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
– Toss in the bay leaf for added flavor.
– Gently stir the mixture to combine, ensuring the chicken is covered by the liquid.
Cooking Process
– Now, cover the slow cooker. You can set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
– Once the chicken is cooked and tender, remove it from the pot.
– Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the slow cooker.
– Stir in the egg noodles and let them cook on high for 20-30 minutes until soft.
– Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Flavor
To make your soup shine, adjust the seasonings. I like to add a bit more thyme and oregano. Taste the broth before serving. If it needs more salt or pepper, add it then.
Shredding chicken can be tricky. I suggest using two forks. Hold one fork in each hand. Pull the chicken apart while it is warm. The pieces will come apart easily.
Time-Saving Tips
Prep your ingredients the night before. Chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge. This way, you can toss everything in the slow cooker in no time.
Using frozen vegetables is a smart trick. They save time and cut down on waste. Just add them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. They will cook perfectly while the soup simmers.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can switch out chicken for turkey. Ground turkey works well and tastes great. You can also use rotisserie chicken for fast prep. For veggies, try using sweet potatoes or peas. You can mix and match your favorites. This soup is flexible, so have fun with it!
Flavor Enhancements
Fresh herbs can add a lot of flavor. I love adding rosemary for a nice touch. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for heat. If you like a kick, cayenne pepper is a great choice, too. Try adding lemon juice for a bright finish. These simple changes can make your soup unique and exciting!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temp. Then, transfer it to airtight containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the soup may expand when it freezes. Place the containers in the fridge. This soup will last for about three to four days.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the soup, follow these tips. First, let it cool completely. Pour the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Try to remove excess air from the bags. Label each bag with the date. This soup can last for up to three months in the freezer.
To reheat, take the soup out the night before and put it in the fridge. When ready, heat it on the stove over medium heat. Stir often until it warms up. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge first. You can also use a microwave if you’re in a hurry, but stir it halfway through to help it heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time. If you use frozen chicken, set the slow cooker to high for 4-5 hours. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
How do I make it gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, swap egg noodles for gluten-free pasta. You can also use rice or quinoa as a tasty base. Just cook them separately and add them in before serving.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can. Use the sauté function to cook the veggies and add the chicken. Then, add broth and seasonings. Cook on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes. Quick release the pressure and shred the chicken before adding noodles. Cook the noodles using the sauté function until tender.
This blog post covered a simple slow cooker chicken soup. We explored the main ingredients, including chicken, broth, and fresh veggies. You learned how to layer the cooker, adjust seasonings, and add noodles. I shared tips for flavor and time-saving ideas. You also found variations to enhance your soup and storage methods for leftovers.
Now, you can enjoy a warm bowl of chicken soup anytime. Happy cooking!
![To make vegan lentil sloppy joes, these key ingredients are a must: - 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 carrot, grated - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 cup vegetable broth - 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari - 2 tablespoons maple syrup - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon cumin - Salt and pepper to taste - 4 whole wheat burger buns - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients create a hearty, flavorful mix. The lentils give protein and fiber. The veggies add crunch and sweetness. You can also add these optional ingredients for a twist: - Jalapeños for heat - Mushrooms for umami - Corn for sweetness - Avocado for creaminess These ingredients can elevate your dish. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite flavor. Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are high in protein, which is great for vegans. Here are some benefits: - High in Fiber: Helps with digestion and keeps you full. - Rich in Iron: Supports energy levels and overall health. - Low in Fat: A smart choice for heart health. - Packed with Vitamins: Includes B vitamins, which help with metabolism. Incorporating lentils into your meals is a smart move for your health. They make a tasty and nutritious base for this dish. You can find the full recipe above to get started on your tasty vegan adventure! Start by rinsing 1 cup of green or brown lentils. Put them in a medium pot. Add 3 cups of water. Bring the water to a boil. Then, lower the heat to a simmer. Cook the lentils for about 25 to 30 minutes. They should be tender when done. Once cooked, drain any extra water and set the lentils aside. This step is key for a hearty filling. Next, grab a large skillet. Heat a little water or vegetable broth over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften. Then, stir in the diced red bell pepper and grated carrot. Cook these veggies for another 5 minutes, until they start to soften. This mix adds great flavor and crunch. Now it's time to bring everything together. Add the cooked lentils to the skillet. Then, mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 cup of vegetable broth, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Don’t forget 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will help it thicken nicely. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe]. This dish will make your taste buds dance! To get a thick and hearty Sloppy Joe, you want to simmer the lentil mixture well. After adding all your ingredients, let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir often to avoid sticking. If it gets too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth. This keeps it moist and tasty. The perfect texture is key for a great bite. You can make your Sloppy Joes your own! Try adding different spices, like chili powder or oregano. Want more heat? Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also swap the maple syrup for agave nectar. If you love smoky flavors, consider extra smoked paprika. Each twist brings a new flavor, making it fun to explore. Make cooking easier with a few tricks! Chop your veggies ahead of time. You can store them in the fridge for a few days. Also, cook a big batch of lentils and freeze some for later. This meal can be ready in about 30 minutes if you prep smart. For a quick assembly, toast the buns while the mixture simmers. Get the full recipe for more details on each step! {{image_2}} Want some heat? You can turn your lentil sloppy joes into a spicy treat. Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. You can even swap smoked paprika for cayenne for more kick. Spice lovers will enjoy this twist. Adjust the heat to your taste. You can always add more later! If you need a gluten-free meal, don't worry! Use gluten-free buns instead of whole wheat. Many brands offer tasty options. Just check the label to be sure. You can also serve the lentil mix in lettuce wraps. This keeps it light and fresh. Enjoy the same great flavors without the gluten. Looking to cut carbs? Try serving the lentil mix over cauliflower rice. This gives you a tasty base without the bread. Another option is to use portobello mushrooms as buns. They add great flavor and texture. This way, you enjoy all the taste and still stay low-carb. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above. After making your vegan lentil sloppy joes, you can store leftovers easily. Let the mixture cool down first. Transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to keep it separate from the buns. This keeps the buns from getting soggy. You can freeze the lentil mixture for later use. Put the cooled lentil mix in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. This way, you have a quick meal ready on busy days. To reheat, you can use a stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, place the lentil mix in a pan over low heat. Stir occasionally until it's hot. If using a microwave, put it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short bursts. Stir between each burst for even heating. Make sure to toast the buns again for that perfect crunch. You can enjoy your delicious vegan lentil sloppy joes just like the first time! For the full recipe, check out the previous section. I recommend using green or brown lentils for this recipe. These lentils hold their shape well when cooked. They also have a nice, earthy flavor that works great in sloppy joes. Red lentils can cook down too much and become mushy, so they are not ideal here. Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. The lentil mixture stores well in the fridge for up to five days. Just keep it in an airtight container. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. To make this dish less spicy, you can adjust the ingredients. Skip the smoked paprika if you find it too strong. You can also reduce the amount of garlic. Adding a little more maple syrup can balance the heat too, making it sweeter. Enjoy it mild or spicy, depending on your taste! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide on Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes. In this blog post, we explored how to make tasty vegan lentil sloppy joes. We discussed key ingredients and their benefits, prepared the lentils, and combined everything into a delicious sauce. I shared tips for perfecting the dish and offered variations for spice and dietary needs. These sandwiches are easy to store and reheat. Whether you're new to cooking or a pro, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the fun of cooking and savor the flavors you create!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/15cadd50-421d-45eb-818a-a88ea76b441c-768x768.webp)
. 1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. 2. Add 1 medium diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes. 3. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute. 1. Pour in 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of vegetable broth. 2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, salt, and pepper. 3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, letting the flavors blend. 4. Once simmering, add 9 oz of fresh cheese tortellini. Cook it according to the package, usually about 3-5 minutes. 1. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream until mixed well. 2. Let the soup heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, but don’t let it boil. 3. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. 4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier section for all details. Enjoy your cooking! To make the best creamy tomato tortellini soup, cook the tortellini just right. Follow the package instructions closely. Fresh tortellini cooks quickly, usually in just 3-5 minutes. Stir gently to avoid breaking them. You can adjust the creaminess and flavor easily. If you want a richer taste, add more heavy cream. For a lighter option, use coconut milk. Taste the soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your liking. One common mistake is overcooking the tortellini. This makes them mushy and loses their shape. Keep an eye on the timer to prevent this. Another mistake is skipping seasoning adjustments. Each ingredient plays a role in flavor. After cooking, taste your soup. You might need more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the taste. To add depth, try a splash of balsamic vinegar. This little tweak can brighten the flavors. Just a teaspoon can work wonders. Using fresh herbs for garnish is another great way to boost flavor. Fresh basil leaves add a nice touch and a burst of color. They bring freshness that makes each bowl inviting. For the full recipe, check the earlier section and enjoy making this comforting meal! {{image_2}} Adding spinach makes this soup even better. You can use fresh or frozen spinach. If you have fresh, chop it up and add it right before serving. For frozen, just stir it in when the soup is hot. It will wilt nicely and give a pop of green. This adds nutrients and a nice flavor to the soup. For a heartier meal, try adding cooked Italian sausage. Brown the sausage in the pot before you add the onion. This step adds a rich flavor that blends well with the tomatoes. After cooking the sausage, follow the rest of the recipe as usual. The sausage will make the soup more filling and tasty. You can easily make this soup vegan and gluten-free. Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular tortellini. There are many great options available today. For the creamy base, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk. It gives a nice texture and a hint of sweetness. Be sure to use vegetable broth for the best flavors. This way, everyone can enjoy this soup! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. To keep your creamy tomato tortellini soup fresh, use an airtight container. This helps prevent spills and keeps out air. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you need more time, consider freezing it. Make sure to cool the soup before storing. This prevents steam buildup in the container. Freezing the soup is easy and a great way to save it for later. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. This helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat without losing texture, do it slowly. Pour the soup into a pot and warm it over low heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. If it seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water. For the best flavor, avoid boiling it. This keeps the creamy texture just right. When choosing tortellini, I prefer fresh cheese tortellini. It cooks quickly and adds a creamy texture. Cheese tortellini pairs well with the soup’s flavors. Meat tortellini works too, but it can change the taste. Stick with cheese for a classic, comforting soup. Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. To meal prep, cook the soup without adding the tortellini. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to eat, heat it up and add the tortellini. This keeps the pasta from getting mushy. You can store the soup in the fridge for up to three days. If you freeze it, it lasts for about three months. When you reheat it, add a little water or broth. This helps keep the soup creamy and fresh. In this blog post, we explored how to make a delicious creamy tomato tortellini soup. We discussed key ingredients like olive oil, crushed tomatoes, and fresh tortellini. You learned easy steps for preparation, cooking, and final touches. We shared tips for avoiding common mistakes and enhancing flavors. You also discovered tasty variations and proper storage methods. With these insights, you can create a comforting meal that warms the heart. Enjoy making this soup as much as I do!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/f157e764-c4a1-4324-a22a-5668ebbc8ae4-768x768.webp)
![One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken is a simple dish that packs a big flavor punch. It combines juicy chicken thighs with sweet honey and rich garlic. The colorful veggies add crunch and nutrition. This dish is quick to make and perfect for busy nights. You can find the Full Recipe at the end. - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 3 tablespoons honey - 3 tablespoons soy sauce - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon sesame oil - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 1 green bell pepper, sliced - 1 cup snap peas - Salt and pepper to taste - Sesame seeds for garnish - Chopped green onions for garnish To make this recipe, you need a few basic tools: - A large skillet for cooking - A mixing bowl for marinating - A cutting board and knife for chopping - A measuring spoon for accuracy - A meat thermometer to check chicken doneness With these ingredients and tools, you can create a meal that delights your taste buds and impresses your friends and family! To start, you need to marinate the chicken. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This mix gives the chicken a sweet and savory taste. Take your chicken thighs and add them to the bowl. Make sure they are well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes. This step helps the flavors soak in. Next, it’s time to prepare the pan. Heat olive oil and sesame oil in a large skillet. Set the heat to medium-high. The oils will help the chicken cook nicely and add flavor. Once the pan is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade. Reserve the marinade for later. Add the chicken thighs to the pan. Sear each side for about 5-6 minutes. You want them to be golden brown. After that, add the sliced red and green bell peppers and snap peas. Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes. They should be tender but still crisp. Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Lower the heat to medium. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will thicken the sauce a bit. Check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C). Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving. Enjoy your One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken! To make the best marinade, use fresh ingredients. Combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This mix gives a sweet and savory taste. Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 20 minutes. If you have more time, an hour is even better. This helps the chicken absorb all the flavors. For juicy chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for safe eating. Searing the chicken first locks in the juices. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it moist. Cook vegetables until they are tender-crisp. You want them to stay bright and colorful. Add them to the pan after the chicken has browned. This keeps them from getting too soft. Sauté the sliced bell peppers and snap peas for 3-4 minutes. This way, they retain their crunch and freshness. Remember, for the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. Enjoy creating this quick and yummy meal! {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in this recipe for quick meals. Chicken thighs are great, but you can use chicken breasts, shrimp, or tofu. Each choice adds a unique taste. If you use shrimp, cook them just until they turn pink. For tofu, press it to remove extra water and cube it. Marinate as you would the chicken for the same sweet and savory flavor. Feel free to swap vegetables based on your taste or what you have. Broccoli, carrots, and zucchini work well. Use any crunchy vegetable you like. Just cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly. Remember to sauté until they are tender yet crisp. This keeps them vibrant and full of flavor! For those who enjoy heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños. This gives your dish a nice kick. You can also mix in lime juice or rice vinegar for a tangy twist. Both will enhance the honey garlic sauce. Experiment with these ideas to find your favorite taste! Check out the Full Recipe for more details! After enjoying your One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken, let the leftovers cool. Place the chicken and vegetables in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Store in the fridge for up to three days. Always label your container with the date. To reheat, use a microwave or a skillet. If using the microwave, warm on medium for about 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating. If you prefer a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and vegetables, stirring for about 5 minutes until warm. If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. For the best taste, marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours gives even better results. Just remember, don’t marinate too long, as it can make the chicken mushy. Yes, you can use chicken breasts. They will work fine in this recipe. However, chicken thighs have more fat, which keeps them juicy and tasty. If you use breasts, be sure to watch the cooking time. They cook faster than thighs. You can serve this dish with rice or quinoa. Both soak up the sweet sauce well. Steamed veggies or a fresh salad also make great sides. They add color and balance to your meal. You can even serve it with noodles for a fun twist. Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for up to four days. Just keep the chicken and veggies in an airtight container. You can heat it up easily for quick lunches or dinners. Enjoy your yummy meal without the fuss! For the full recipe, check out the details above. We covered the key steps for making One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken. You learned about the ingredients, kitchen tools, and the cooking process. I shared tips to perfect your dish, including marination and vegetable cooking. You also saw fun variations to try and how to store your leftovers. This dish is simple and tasty for any meal. Enjoy making it your own!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/cad806aa-ae3a-4121-b5f5-07eae0f4869e-768x768.webp)