Few dishes comfort the soul quite like a warm bowl of chicken noodle soup. This crockpot version of the classic takes all the goodness of the original—tender chicken, hearty vegetables, slurp-worthy egg noodles—and gives it an extra depth of flavor from slow cooking. Whether you’re battling the sniffles, fending off the chill of winter, or just need a bowl of love, this timeless recipe never disappoints.

Rooted in both tradition and nostalgia, chicken noodle soup has long held its place as a healing staple in kitchens around the world. With its origins tracing back to European peasant soups and made popular in American households during the 20th century, this dish is as culturally beloved as it is personally comforting. One slow-simmered spoonful, and you’ll understand why it has become the go-to remedy for cold days and cold symptoms alike.

This crockpot rendition simplifies the cooking process while enriching the flavors. Just a few minutes of prep, and your slow cooker does the rest, gently coaxing out all the savory, herbal notes. It’s low effort, high reward—and we’re here for it.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken	1 lb (450g)
Chicken broth	8 cups
Carrots (sliced)	2 medium
Celery stalks (sliced)	2
Onion (chopped)	1 medium
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Dried thyme	1 teaspoon
Bay leaf	1
Egg noodles	2 cups
Salt and pepper	To taste
Fresh parsley (optional)	For garnish

Ingredient Notes:

Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and remain moist through long cooking, though breasts can be used for a leaner result.
Opt for low-sodium broth if you want more control over seasoning.
You can substitute egg noodles with whole wheat pasta, orzo, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter, gluten-free version.

Equipment Needed

Crockpot / Slow Cooker: Essential for long, gentle simmering that builds depth in the broth.
Cutting board & knife: For prepping vegetables and chicken.
Ladle: Handy for serving soup cleanly and evenly.
Forks: To shred the cooked chicken easily.
Measuring spoons & cups: For accurate seasoning and broth ratios.

A crockpot is your best friend here—it allows you to “set it and forget it,” slowly blending all the ingredients into a beautifully cohesive and nourishing soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by prepping your vegetables—peel and slice the carrots, chop the celery and onion, and mince the garlic. If you’re using whole chicken breasts or thighs, trim off excess fat.

2. Place the chicken into the crockpot. Add the sliced vegetables, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth and stir lightly to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that flavors will intensify as the soup cooks.

3. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and fork-tender.

4. Carefully remove the chicken and place it on a plate. Using two forks, shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

5. Add in the egg noodles and switch the heat to high. Cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Right before serving, sprinkle in chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Success:

Don’t overcook the noodles—check them at the 20-minute mark.
Shred the chicken while it’s still warm for easier handling.
Skim off any excess fat from the top before serving for a clearer broth.

Flavor Variations:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Herbal Boost: Swap thyme for rosemary, or add fresh dill at the end.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and substitute chicken with white beans or chickpeas.

Dietary Variations:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles or rice.
Low-Carb: Replace noodles with spiralized zucchini or riced cauliflower.

Serving Suggestions

For the ultimate presentation, ladle your chicken noodle soup into wide, shallow bowls that showcase the colorful vegetables and tender meat. A sprig of parsley or thyme on top gives a rustic finish, while a slice of crusty sourdough on the side adds texture and substance.

Pair it with a small side salad of mixed greens tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast, or a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for an indulgent comfort food combo.

If you’re serving this for guests, consider topping each bowl with a swirl of herbed oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra flair.

Pairings

Chicken noodle soup pairs beautifully with light, clean beverages that complement its savory and herbal notes.

White wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio brings crisp acidity that balances the rich broth.
For non-alcoholic options, go for lemon ginger tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime—both help refresh the palate.
A lightly hopped pale ale or wheat beer also works well, especially with the soup’s earthy depth and noodle starchiness.

These drinks echo the comforting, homey nature of the soup while elevating the meal experience.

Storage and Reheating

To store, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Just note that noodles may become softer upon thawing. To avoid this, store noodles separately and add fresh ones when reheating.

Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approx. 1 ½ cups):

Calories: 280
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 26g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 700mg

Allergens: Contains gluten (from egg noodles); may contain traces of soy or dairy depending on broth brand used.

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

Whether you’re nursing a cold or simply craving a nostalgic bite, this Classic Chicken Noodle Soup delivers every time. Its deeply savory broth, fork-tender chicken, and cozy noodles come together in perfect harmony. With minimal effort and maximum comfort, it’s no wonder this soup remains a perennial favorite.

If you give this recipe a try, don’t forget to leave a comment below, share your own twist on the classic, or post a picture and tag us on social media! We’d love to see your cozy creations.