Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting meal that warms the soul. Packed with nutritious vegetables and lean chicken, it's perfect for chilly days!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Wholesome ingredients that nourish the body
- Rich, savory flavors that satisfy
- Convenient one-pot meal that cooks itself
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
The Benefits of Using a Crockpot
A crockpot is a game-changer for busy individuals and families looking to simplify meal preparation. By allowing ingredients to simmer slowly, it enhances the flavors of each component, resulting in a comforting and rich taste profile. The convenience of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for those hectic days when you don't have time to hover over the stove.
Additionally, cooking with a crockpot can help retain more nutrients in your ingredients compared to other cooking methods. The low and slow cooking process preserves vitamins and minerals, providing a wholesome meal that contributes to your overall health. This is especially important when preparing a dish like chicken noodle soup, where the focus is on nourishing, wholesome ingredients.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe based on seasonal vegetables or personal preferences. Feel free to swap out carrots for sweet potatoes or add in zucchini for a twist. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
If you prefer a creamier soup, consider stirring in some Greek yogurt or coconut milk just before serving. This enhances the richness while keeping the dish light and healthy. The possibilities are endless, making this soup a fantastic base for creative culinary experimentation.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
One of the perks of preparing a large batch of soup in the crockpot is having delicious leftovers ready for the week ahead. Once cooled, store any extra soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze portions for later use, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks.
When reheating, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. If the noodles have absorbed too much broth, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. This way, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup any time you desire without compromising on flavor or texture.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups egg noodles
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
Enjoy this nutritious meal with a slice of whole grain bread!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the vegetables and mince the garlic. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Layer the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic over the chicken. Sprinkle with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Add the Broth
Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
Add the Noodles and Spinach
After 4 hours, add the egg noodles and spinach. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return to the soup. Stir well and serve hot.
Serve warm and enjoy the comfort!
Pairing Suggestions
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the warmth of the soup, offering a delightful contrast in textures.
For a heartier option, crusty whole-grain bread or garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment. Dipping the bread into the savory broth is a comforting experience, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a nutritious boost.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
The ingredients in this chicken noodle soup are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It also helps keep you feeling full longer, making it a great choice for weight management.
Vegetables like carrots and spinach are rich in vitamins A and C, crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system. Carrots provide beta-carotene, promoting good vision and skin health, while spinach is loaded with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress. Together, these ingredients create a nourishing meal that supports overall well-being.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but the cooking time may need to be increased.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free noodles.
→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
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
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups celery, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups egg noodles
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
How-To Steps
Chop the vegetables and mince the garlic. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Layer the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic over the chicken. Sprinkle with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
After 4 hours, add the egg noodles and spinach. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return to the soup. Stir well and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g