Ultimate Cozy Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup: Your Easy Weeknight Comfort Food
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup. This classic recipe delivers pure comfort, featuring tender, shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, and an abundance of fresh vegetables, all simmered together in a rich, savory broth. It’s the quintessential cozy meal that nourishes both body and soul, perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or a comforting pick-me-up.
What makes this chicken noodle soup truly special is how effortlessly it comes together in your crockpot. Simply toss in your ingredients, set it, and forget it! Hours later, you’ll return to a house filled with an inviting aroma and a perfectly cooked, wholesome meal ready to be enjoyed by the entire family. It’s nourishing, incredibly family-friendly, and requires minimal hands-on effort, making it an ideal choice for even the busiest of schedules.
👉 For an even more satisfying family meal, consider pairing this soup with homemade Easy One Hour Dinner Rolls for dipping, or perhaps a sweet treat like Hidden Veggie Chocolate Muffins. These additions complement the soup beautifully, creating a well-rounded and delightful dining experience.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is a hearty crockpot dinner masterpiece. It relies on simple, wholesome ingredients like succulent chicken breasts, tender egg noodles, vibrant carrots, crisp celery, aromatic onion, and a blend of classic herbs, all swimming in a deeply flavored broth. This homemade chicken noodle soup recipe embodies ease and coziness, making it an absolute lifesaver for sick days, hectic weeknights, or when you’re looking to simplify your meal prep. It’s truly a budget-friendly and family-friendly comfort food, made incredibly simple.
If you’re a fan of classic comfort food like this Chicken Noodle Soup, you’ll definitely want to explore some of my other deeply satisfying slow cooker creations. Don’t miss my incredibly cozy Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Soup, the lusciously creamy Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup, or the wonderfully wholesome and veggie-packed Slow Cooker Lentil Soup Stew. Each offers its own unique brand of warmth and flavor, all with the convenience of your slow cooker.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
There’s an undeniable magic to a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup, and when it’s prepared in a slow cooker, that magic only intensifies. This recipe truly redefines effortless cooking. The slow cooker gently coaxes the chicken into incredible tenderness, while the vegetables soften to perfection, releasing their natural sweetness and aromatic flavors into the broth. The egg noodles are added at the very end, ensuring they cook to a fresh, just-right bite without becoming mushy.
Beyond its simple preparation, you’ll adore this soup for several compelling reasons:
- Unmatched Comfort: It’s the ultimate antidote to a cold day or a stressful week, providing warmth and a feeling of being cared for.
- Effortless Preparation: Minimal chopping and just a few minutes of hands-on time are all it takes to get this soup simmering. Your slow cooker handles the rest.
- Nutrient-Rich Goodness: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and a hydrating broth, it’s a wholesome meal that supports wellness.
- Family Favorite: A universally loved classic, even picky eaters can’t resist the appeal of tender chicken and soft noodles in a savory broth.
- Versatile & Adaptable: Easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs (see our variations section below!).
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping, it tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully (without noodles).
- Bright & Fresh Finish: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley added at the very end elevate all the flavors, adding a vibrant finish that truly brightens every spoonful.
Recipe at a Glance
⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏳ Cook Time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH
✅ Ready In: 6–8 hours (total)
🛒 Key Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken, egg noodles, carrots, celery, onion, chicken broth, fresh herbs.
🍽️ Servings: 6-8
👩🍳 Difficulty: Easy
🧊 Make-Ahead Friendly: Absolutely! Fantastic for fridge or freezer meal prep.
Looking for more hearty family favorites beyond chicken noodle soup? Be sure to try my 8 Can Chicken Taco Soup for a quick and flavorful option, the classic Slow Cooker Taco Soup, or the wonderfully zesty Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup. Each offers unique flavors with the same slow cooker convenience.
Made With Love,
– Julia
Watch the Step-by-Step Recipe Video
Seeing is believing! Before you dive into the kitchen, take a quick 1-2 minute break to watch this essential video. It provides a visual guide, showing you exactly how this recipe comes together, from preparing the ingredients to the final stir. It’s the easiest and most helpful way to learn the process before you start cooking, ensuring confidence and success.
Essential Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients
This slow cooker chicken noodle soup relies on a straightforward list of simple, wholesome ingredients that combine to create a truly timeless classic. Get ready for soup season by stocking up on these pantry staples! Don’t forget to check out my collection of 15 Cozy Crockpot Soups for Fall for more seasonal inspiration.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, cooking until incredibly tender and easily shreddable. They provide lean protein and a hearty bite to every spoonful.
- Carrots, Celery, Onion (Mirepoix): This classic trio forms the aromatic foundation of the soup, adding natural sweetness, depth of flavor, and essential nutrients. Dice them evenly for consistent cooking.
- Chicken Broth: The rich, flavorful liquid base is crucial. Use a high-quality chicken broth or stock (preferably low-sodium) to control the overall saltiness of your soup.
- Egg Noodles: These wide, flat noodles are a hallmark of traditional chicken noodle soup. They cook directly in the hot broth during the final minutes, ensuring a fresh, soft, and satisfying texture.
- Herbs: A medley of dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves infuses the soup with an inviting herby aroma and complex, earthy flavors that truly define comfort food. Fresh herbs can also be used for an even more vibrant taste.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent, savory kick that enhances all the other flavors in the broth.
- Lemon Juice & Fresh Parsley: These are your secret weapons for brightening the entire soup! Added at the very end, fresh lemon juice provides a zesty lift, while finely chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness and a beautiful green garnish.
- Salt & Pepper: The essential seasonings for classic chicken noodle soup. Start with a modest amount and adjust to taste before serving. If you desire a little extra kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of paprika for warmth. Feel free to experiment with other spices you enjoy!
A complete ingredient list with precise measurements for each component is conveniently available in the detailed recipe card located further down below. This ensures you have everything you need to recreate this comforting soup perfectly.
If your cravings lean towards something deliciously cheesy and creamy, don’t miss out on my popular Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheese Soup, the incredibly hearty Easy Slow Cooker Potato Soup, or the absolute family-favorite, Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup. Each promises a rich, satisfying experience straight from your crockpot.
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup Variations & Customizations
One of the best things about homemade chicken noodle soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fantastic variations to try:
- Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken breasts, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even richer, more succulent flavor. Dark meat holds up beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Noodle Alternatives: While egg noodles are classic, you can easily swap them for other small pasta shapes like rotini, ditalini, small shells, or even gluten-free pasta if preferred. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly.
- Add More Vegetables: Boost the nutrient content and color by adding frozen peas or corn during the last 10 minutes of cooking. You can also include diced bell peppers, zucchini, or chopped spinach (add spinach during the last 5 minutes, it wilts quickly).
- Herbal Twists: Experiment with different fresh or dried herbs. Fresh dill or tarragon can add a unique and bright flavor profile to the soup, offering a delightful alternative to the classic thyme and rosemary.
- Make it Creamier: For a richer, more decadent soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a bit of full-fat coconut milk (for a dairy-free option) just before serving.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with your other seasonings. A dash of cayenne pepper could also provide a subtle warmth.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this soup entirely gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free chicken broth and swap the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta (add it at the end, as GF pasta can cook faster and get mushy).
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: For an even faster assembly, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Shred the meat and add it to the slow cooker during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, after the vegetables are tender, to prevent it from becoming dry.
For another beloved family classic that offers similar comforting flavors, be sure to try my Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup – it’s a hearty and satisfying meal everyone will enjoy!
Step-by-Step: How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Making this incredible chicken noodle soup in your slow cooker is wonderfully straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect bowl every time:
- Prepare and Combine Ingredients: Begin by placing the raw chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Then, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, dried bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are mostly submerged. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Cook on the LOW setting for 6–8 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on the HIGH setting for 4–5 hours. The chicken should be fall-apart tender, and the vegetables soft.
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Once shredded, return the chicken back into the slow cooker.
- Add Noodles: Stir the egg noodles directly into the hot soup. Ensure they are fully submerged in the broth. Cover the slow cooker again and let the noodles sit and cook for 5–10 minutes, or until they are perfectly tender. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Finish with Freshness: Just before serving, stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley. These additions will brighten the flavors and add a vibrant, fresh aroma to your soup.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot slow cooker chicken noodle soup into individual bowls. Serve immediately, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping.
For more Italian-inspired slow cooker meals that are equally comforting and easy, check out my Slow Cooker Italian Vegetable and Sausage Soup, the wonderfully cheesy Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup, or the heartwarming Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili. These recipes bring delicious Mediterranean flavors right to your table with minimal effort.
Visual Guide: Crafting Your Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients (Except Noodles)
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, celery, minced garlic, dried bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt and pepper. Give it a quick stir to combine everything evenly.
Step 2: Cover and Cook
Place the lid firmly on your slow cooker. Allow the soup to cook on the LOW setting for 6–8 hours, or if you need it sooner, cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours. The long, slow cooking process is key to developing deep flavors and incredibly tender chicken.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Using two forks, easily shred the tender chicken into desired pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring it back into the rich broth and vegetables.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Stir in the egg noodles, making sure they are submerged in the hot liquid. Replace the lid and let the noodles cook in the residual heat of the soup for approximately 5–10 minutes, or until they reach your preferred tender consistency. This prevents them from becoming overcooked and mushy.
Step 5: Finish with Zest and Freshness
To brighten all the flavors, stir in the fresh lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley. These final touches add a wonderful zesty and herbaceous note that truly elevates the soup.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Ladle generous portions of the hot, fragrant chicken noodle soup into bowls. Serve immediately with your favorite side, such as crusty bread or warm rolls, and savor this comforting, homemade masterpiece.
For even more detail and the ability to save or print for later, full step-by-step instructions are included in the comprehensive recipe card below.
Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
Achieving a perfectly comforting and flavorful slow cooker chicken noodle soup is easy with these helpful tips and tricks:
- Timing the Noodles is Key: Always add the egg noodles during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. This is crucial for preventing them from becoming overcooked and mushy. They will continue to soften in the residual heat of the soup even after the slow cooker is turned off.
- Control Your Sodium: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth. This allows you to have full control over the saltiness of your soup. You can always add more salt at the end, but you can’t take it away! Taste and adjust seasonings generously before serving.
- Don’t Skip the Fresh Finish: The addition of fresh lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley at the very end is not merely a garnish. The lemon provides a bright, acidic lift that cuts through the richness and awakens all the flavors, while the parsley adds a burst of herbaceous freshness that truly elevates the soup.
- Searing for Depth: For an extra layer of flavor, consider quickly searing your chicken breasts in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker. This caramelizes the surface and adds a savory depth to the final broth.
- Thicken if Desired: If you prefer a slightly thicker soup, you can create a cornstarch slurry (1-2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with an equal amount of cold water) and stir it into the hot soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Even Vegetable Cuts: Cut your carrots, celery, and onion into roughly similar-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender at the same rate.
- Storage Without Noodles: If you plan on having leftovers or meal prepping, it’s best to store the soup without the noodles. Cook the noodles separately or add them to individual servings just before reheating to maintain their ideal texture.
Don’t forget about other hearty slow cooker classics like my Easy Slow Cooker Beef Stew and my robust Slow Cooker Chili — both are perfect candidates for your next cozy dinner and offer incredible depth of flavor with minimal fuss.
Sweet Endings: Desserts to Pair with Your Cozy Soups
No comforting dinner, especially one featuring a warm, slow-cooked soup, is truly complete without a delightful sweet ending. Here are some easy-to-make dessert recipes that perfectly complement the cozy vibes of your favorite soups:
Pumpkin Pie Bars
Homemade Oreo Cookies
Caramel Butter Bars
Apple Dump Cake
Pumpkin Crumble Dump Cake
Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making and enjoying slow cooker chicken noodle soup:
Can I freeze chicken noodle soup?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze chicken noodle soup! However, for best results, it is highly recommended to freeze the soup *without* the noodles. Cooked noodles tend to get mushy and break down when frozen and reheated. Instead, add freshly cooked noodles to individual servings after reheating the soup.
Can I make it with rotisserie chicken?
Indeed! Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this recipe. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken meat and add it to the slow cooker during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, after the vegetables are tender, to warm through and absorb the flavors without overcooking.
How do I make it creamier?
To achieve a creamier consistency, stir in a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a bit of full-fat coconut milk (for a dairy-free option) into the soup just before serving. Start with a quarter cup and add more to your desired creaminess.
What if my noodles get mushy?
Mushy noodles are a common issue if they are added too early or cooked for too long. To prevent this, always add the egg noodles only during the final 5-10 minutes of cooking, directly into the hot broth. They will continue to cook in the residual heat. If you anticipate having leftovers, it’s best to cook noodles separately and add them to individual servings.
Can I use frozen chicken?
While it’s generally best to start with thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Be aware that this will extend the cooking time by an additional 1-2 hours on both LOW and HIGH settings. Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding.
How long does the soup last in the refrigerator?
Properly stored in an airtight container, the chicken noodle soup (ideally without pre-cooked noodles) will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Noodle Soup
This slow cooker chicken noodle soup is a complete meal in itself, but a few simple additions can elevate your dining experience and make it even more satisfying:
- Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: A classic pairing! Serve with a side of warm dinner rolls, garlic bread, or a crusty baguette for dipping into the flavorful broth. My Easy One Hour Dinner Rolls are a perfect match.
- Fresh Green Salad: Balance the richness of the soup with a light, crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing contrast and extra nutrients to your meal.
- Garnish Galore: Offer a variety of garnishes for guests to customize their bowls. Extra fresh parsley, a sprinkle of fresh dill, a dash of cracked black pepper, or even a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Cheesy Topping: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can add a lovely savory, umami note to the soup.
- Serve with a Comforting Casserole: If you’re hosting a larger gathering or simply love a hearty spread, consider pairing individual soup bowls with a comforting casserole. Options like Onion Chicken Potato Casserole, the rich Zuppa Toscana Casserole, the easy Spinach Chicken Orzo Casserole, or my creamy Creamy Chicken and Egg Noodles make fantastic companions.
Hearty Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Julia Pacheco
10 minutes
8 hours
8 hours 10 minutes
4 servings
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Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 4 celery sticks, sliced
- 1 tbs garlic
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 tbs fresh lemon juice
- 2-3 tbs fresh parsley, sliced finely
- Dash of salt and pepper
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Instructions
- Add chicken breasts, broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW 6–8 hours or HIGH 4–5 hours.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir in egg noodles and let sit 5–10 minutes, until noodles are tender.
- Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy!
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Notes
- Variations: Add peas, corn, or swap noodles for rotini.
- Storage: Refrigerate 4 days; freeze without noodles up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on stovetop or in microwave.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.