Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that warms the soul and satisfies the palate.
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a go-to recipe for busy days! Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work. Perfect for chilly evenings, it's packed with lean protein and vegetables.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome ingredients that nourish your body
- Deliciously comforting and satisfying
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
The Benefits of Using a Crockpot
Using a crockpot to prepare meals like chicken noodle soup offers numerous benefits. One of the primary advantages is the convenience it provides. You can simply add all your ingredients in the morning and return home to a hot, ready-to-eat meal. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over an extended cooking period, resulting in a richer taste.
Additionally, crockpot cooking is a fantastic way to retain the nutrients in your ingredients. The low and slow cooking process helps to preserve the vitamins and minerals found in vegetables and proteins. This means that not only are you enjoying a delicious soup, but you’re also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is an ideal dish for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a cozy family dinner, preparing a meal for a sick friend, or simply looking to warm up on a chilly day, this soup fits the bill. Its comforting nature makes it a go-to recipe that appeals to all ages, ensuring that everyone at the table will enjoy it.
Moreover, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your dietary needs or preferences. For instance, if you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. This adaptability makes it a staple recipe to keep in your culinary repertoire.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
One of the best aspects of Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch at once and store it for later use. Once cooled, portion it into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for a longer shelf life. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
If you’re planning to freeze the soup, it’s advisable to add the noodles fresh when you reheat it. This prevents them from becoming mushy during freezing and ensures that they retain their texture. By following these storage tips, you can always have a healthy and comforting meal on hand, ready to nourish you at a moment's notice.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by chopping the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and slice the chicken breasts into smaller pieces.
Combine in the Crockpot
Place the chicken, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. If you're short on time, you can cook on high for 3 hours.
Add Noodles and Peas
About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles and frozen peas. Stir well and cover until the noodles are cooked.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the noodles are cooked, serve hot and enjoy your healthy soup!
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days!
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people wonder if they can use frozen chicken in this recipe. The answer is yes! You can add frozen chicken breasts directly to the crockpot. However, you may need to extend the cooking time slightly to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and tender by the time your soup is ready.
Another common question is about adjusting the flavors of the soup. Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices. Adding a bay leaf during the cooking process or a sprinkle of parsley just before serving can elevate the flavor profile of your chicken noodle soup even further.
Nutritional Information
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Each serving contains a balanced mix of protein from the chicken, vitamins from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the egg noodles. It’s a wholesome meal that can easily fit into various dietary plans, providing essential nutrients to support overall health.
With the combination of lean chicken and plenty of vegetables, this soup is also low in calories yet filling. It makes for a great option for those who are looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste. Pair it with a fresh salad or whole-grain bread for a complete meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure to cook it thoroughly.
→ What can I substitute for egg noodles?
You can use whole grain noodles or gluten-free pasta as alternatives.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or any other veggies you like.
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that warms the soul and satisfies the palate.
Created by: Isla Turner
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Begin by chopping the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and slice the chicken breasts into smaller pieces.
Place the chicken, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. If you're short on time, you can cook on high for 3 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles and frozen peas. Stir well and cover until the noodles are cooked.
Once the noodles are cooked, serve hot and enjoy your healthy soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g