Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days. It's a comforting bowl of goodness that you can set and forget!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with nutritious vegetables and whole grains
- Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
- Comforting and satisfying for the whole family
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
The Benefits of Using a Crockpot
Crockpots, also known as slow cookers, are a fantastic kitchen appliance for busy families. They allow you to prepare meals in advance, letting you focus on other tasks while your dinner simmers away. This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a prime example of how this appliance can simplify meal preparation. Just toss in your ingredients in the morning, and by dinner time, you'll have a hot, comforting meal waiting for you.
Using a crockpot also means less cleanup. Most recipes require just one pot, reducing the number of dishes you need to wash later. This not only saves time but also makes cooking less daunting for those who may be intimidated by complicated recipes. With this chicken noodle soup, you’ll find that healthy cooking doesn’t have to be a chore.
Nutritional Value of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup has long been a staple comfort food, and for good reason. This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and whole grain egg noodles provides a balanced meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. Carrots and celery contribute essential vitamins and minerals, while chicken adds high-quality protein to help keep you full and energized.
Moreover, this recipe uses low-sodium chicken broth, making it a heart-healthy option. By controlling the sodium levels, you can enjoy the rich flavors without compromising your health. This soup is also versatile; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or whole grains to enhance the nutritional profile even further.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a big batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners. This not only saves time but also helps you stick to healthy eating habits. When you're busy, having a nutritious meal ready to go can be a game-changer.
Additionally, this soup freezes well, making it ideal for those who like to cook in advance. Simply store the cooled soup in airtight containers or freezer bags, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready at a moment’s notice. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and you’re good to go!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the crockpot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
Add the Noodles
Add the egg noodles to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Serve and Enjoy
Stir the soup well and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!
This soup is perfect for freezing, so make a double batch!
Tips for Customization
Feel free to get creative with this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup! You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for an extra nutrient boost. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, consider adding spices like cumin or paprika, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
For a gluten-free option, swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different ingredients may require varying cooking durations. The versatility of this recipe makes it a go-to for any dietary preference.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a little extra broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency.
If you plan to freeze leftovers, it's best to do so without the noodles, as they may become mushy when thawed. Instead, freeze the soup base and cook fresh noodles when you're ready to enjoy your meal. This way, you can maintain the soup's quality and texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time.
→ What can I substitute for egg noodles?
You can use whole grain pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
→ How long will the soup last in the fridge?
The soup will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Created by: Paige Sullivan
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken from the crockpot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
Add the egg noodles to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Stir the soup well and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g