When the weather turns chilly and your bones start to feel like theyβve been left out in the frost, thereβs nothing quite like a warm bowl of crockpot chicken soup to cozy up with. Imagine the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen, as tender chicken mingles with vibrant vegetables, filling every corner with a hug-in-a-bowl experience. This dish is not just food; itβs nostalgia in liquid form, perfect for those lazy Sundays or when youβre nursing a cold.
As I recall, my first encounter with this soul-soothing recipe was during a rainy evening when my friend surprised me with a steaming bowl that instantly warmed my heartβand my stomach. It felt like being wrapped in a fluffy blanket while sipping on sunshine. The best part? Itβs incredibly easy to make! So grab your favorite comfy socks and letβs dive into this delicious journey.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This crockpot chicken soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavor profile warms you from the inside out, creating a comforting meal everyone will love
- The vibrant colors of fresh vegetables make it visually appealing and perfect for family gatherings
- Versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry!
I remember one family gathering where I made this soup, and let me tell youβmy cousin nearly proposed right there on the spot!
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on how many hungry mouths youβre feeding.
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Carrots: Choose bright orange carrots; they add sweetness and color to the mix.
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Celery: Fresh celery adds crunch and depth; opt for firm stalks for the best flavor.
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Onion: A medium onion works wonders here; it becomes sweet and aromatic as it cooks.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an irresistible aroma; choose firm ones for maximum flavor.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; homemade is ideal but store-bought works too!
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Dried Herbs (Thyme & Oregano): These herbs infuse a fragrant warmth into the soup; fresh herbs can be used if available.
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Black Pepper & Salt: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavorsβseason to your taste!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure an even cook while releasing delightful aromas.
Add Chicken & Broth: Place your chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour in enough chicken broth until everything is submergedβaround 4-6 cups depending on your crockpot size.
Season Generously: Sprinkle dried thyme and oregano over the top. Add salt and black pepper according to your tasteβdonβt be shy; seasoning brings it all together!
Cuddle It Up!: Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours. Just imagine how amazing your kitchen will smell!
Shred & Serve!: Once cooked, take out the chicken breasts and shred them using two forksβoh yes, itβll fall apart effortlessly! Stir everything back together before serving.
Enjoy this comforting crockpot chicken soup on its own or pair it with crusty bread for an extra treat!
And there you have it! Simple steps leading to a hearty bowl of happiness thatβll keep you warm all winter long. As youβre savoring each spoonful of this magical elixir, remember: life is too short for bland soup!
You Must Know
- This crockpot chicken soup is a comforting, one-pot wonder that warms your soul
- With its rich aroma wafting through the house, it creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or solo movie nights
- Plus, itβs a great way to sneak in extra veggies!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by adding your chicken and broth to the crockpot, then layer in chopped vegetables. Season generously before cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like spinach or kale. You can also add spices such as thyme or rosemary for extra flavor, or even toss in some noodles during the last hour of cooking for a hearty twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to restore consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- The key to rich flavor is sautΓ©ing onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot
- Use fresh herbs for brightness; dried herbs work too but fresh adds an aromatic touch
- Always taste before servingβadjust salt and pepper to your liking!
Memories of my mom stirring her famous chicken soup always come rushing back when I make this recipe. She would say laughter is the best seasoning, and honestly, she was right!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for crockpot chicken soup?
Yes, but ensure it cooks longer so it reaches safe internal temperature.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
Try turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option thatβs just as satisfying.
How do I thicken my crockpot chicken soup?
Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup during the last hour of cooking.
Crockpot Chicken Soup
- Total Time: 38 minute
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Crockpot Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days. This simple yet satisfying recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a warm hug in a bowl. With minimal prep and hands-free cooking, you can enjoy a hearty meal that fills your home with tantalizing aromas. Whether youβre nursing a cold or enjoying a cozy night in, this soul-soothing soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 3β4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 medium carrots, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces.
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot and pour in enough chicken broth to submerge them.
- Season with thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the soup before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
- Category: Main
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, feel free to include leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking. You can also add noodles or rice during the final stages for a heartier meal.