Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for chilly days, it's easy to prepare and lets your slow cooker do all the work!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A comforting and hearty meal that's perfect for the whole family.
- Packed with vegetables and lean protein for a nutritious boost.
- Effortless preparation with a slow cooker – just set it and forget it!
A Nutrient-Rich Comfort Food
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is the epitome of comfort food while also being packed with nutrients. Each bowl is filled with lean protein from the chicken and a colorful array of vegetables, including carrots, celery, and spinach. These ingredients not only make the soup delicious but also provide vitamins and minerals essential for your well-being.
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, resulting in a rich and hearty broth that warms you from the inside out. It's a meal that nourishes the body and soul, making it perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up.
Family-Friendly and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this chicken noodle soup is its family-friendly nature. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors and the fun of slurping up the egg noodles. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables without anyone noticing!
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Zucchini, green beans, or peas can be excellent additions, allowing you to tailor the soup to your family's taste preferences. This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Easy Meal Prep for Busy Days
Life can get hectic, but this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup simplifies meal prep. With minimal effort required, you can have a wholesome meal ready for your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply toss the ingredients in the crockpot in the morning, and by dinner time, a delicious, homemade soup awaits you.
This recipe is also freezer-friendly, which means you can make a double batch and save some for later. Just freeze the soup in portions, and you’ll have a quick meal option ready to go when time is tight. It’s a practical solution for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
Shred Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add Noodles and Spinach
Add the egg noodles and spinach to the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Serve
Stir the soup gently and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired!
Storage Tips
To ensure your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. If you prefer, you can also freeze the soup for longer storage. Just make sure to leave out the noodles if you plan to freeze it, as they can become mushy once thawed.
When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore the soup's original consistency. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors as if it were freshly made!
Serving Suggestions
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal with some simple serving suggestions. Consider pairing it with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded dinner experience. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, can add a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring an exciting kick to your bowl. Get creative with your toppings and make it your own!
Health Benefits
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is not just comfort food; it also offers numerous health benefits. The chicken provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and immune function. Meanwhile, the variety of vegetables contributes dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.
Additionally, the use of low-sodium chicken broth ensures that you can enjoy a flavorful meal without excess salt, making it heart-friendly. This soup is a nourishing option for families looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying a delicious, satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully cooked before shredding.
→ Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free noodles.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers.
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Created by: Callie Morgan
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add the egg noodles and spinach to the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Stir the soup gently and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g