Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish perfect for any day of the week.
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles in a flavorful broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with nutritious ingredients for a wholesome meal
- Conveniently cooks in your crockpot for effortless preparation
- Rich flavor that warms you from the inside out
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it's homemade. Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup not only fills the belly but also warms the soul. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory broth that can't be replicated with store-bought options. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible, making it a perfect choice for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather.
This soup is not just about comfort; it's about nourishment. Each ingredient is chosen for its health benefits, from the lean chicken providing protein to the vegetables packed with vitamins and minerals. This dish is a great way to sneak in extra servings of vegetables for both kids and adults alike, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best aspects of this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is its convenience. Meal prepping can often feel overwhelming, but with this recipe, you can throw everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you. Set it in the morning and return home to a delicious, home-cooked meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a hearty meal without the fuss of cooking from scratch.
Additionally, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it according to your family’s tastes or dietary needs. Swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand, or use a different type of noodle if you prefer. There’s no right or wrong way to make this soup, giving you the freedom to experiment and make it your own.
Leftovers and Storage
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, you're in for a treat! This soup stores wonderfully in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed for several days after making it. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of broth or water to keep the noodles from getting too soft.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It freezes well and can be a lifesaver on busy days when you need a quick meal. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, and it will stay fresh for up to three months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups celery, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the vegetables and measuring out the ingredients.
Add to Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic powder, thyme, and parsley into the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup.
Add Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and enjoy your healthy soup!
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Nutritional Benefits
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is not just a delightful meal; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Meanwhile, the variety of vegetables adds a rich array of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the carrots and fiber from the celery, promoting digestive health and overall wellness.
This soup is low in calories yet high in nutrients, making it an ideal option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It's a guilt-free indulgence that keeps you satisfied without compromising your health goals.
Why Use a Crockpot?
Crockpots are a game-changer for home cooks, especially for busy families. They allow you to prepare meals in advance with minimal effort, making it easy to enjoy homemade dishes without the stress of daily cooking. The slow cooking method enhances flavors and results in incredibly tender meat, particularly in this chicken noodle soup.
Using a crockpot also means you can control the ingredients, ensuring that your meal is wholesome and free from preservatives or excess sodium often found in pre-packaged foods. With just a few minutes of prep, you can set your crockpot and go about your day, returning to a delicious homemade meal.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. The combination of warm soup and a crunchy side makes for a satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can give the soup a delightful kick. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your garnishes; a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt can add brightness and creaminess that complements the dish beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, just increase the cooking time slightly.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is the soup gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free noodles to make this soup gluten-free.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish perfect for any day of the week.
Created by: Keira Thompson
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups celery, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Start by chopping the vegetables and measuring out the ingredients.
Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic powder, thyme, and parsley into the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup.
Add the egg noodles to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and enjoy your healthy soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g