Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days. It is packed with nutrients and flavors, making it a delicious option for a wholesome dinner.
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Loaded with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and whole grain noodles, it’s a nourishing dish that the whole family will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables
- Slow-cooked for maximum flavor and tenderness
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
A Wholesome Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul. This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup not only warms you up but also provides a hearty dose of nutrients. Made with wholesome ingredients like lean chicken breasts and fresh vegetables, this soup will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. The slow-cooking method ensures that every ingredient melds beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful broth that is sure to become a family favorite.
In addition to its comforting qualities, this soup offers a great balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Carrots and celery add essential nutrients, while whole grain egg noodles provide fiber to keep you full longer. Whether you're recovering from a cold or simply looking for a healthy meal option, this soup is a perfect choice.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best features of this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and portion it out for the week. This not only saves you time during busy weekdays but also ensures you have a healthy meal ready to go. Simply reheat and enjoy a nutritious lunch or dinner without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day.
Additionally, leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store the soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days, or freeze individual portions for longer storage. This makes it a fantastic option for busy families or anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet effortlessly.
Customization Options
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your preferences, and this Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is no exception. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Adding spinach, peas, or even sweet potatoes can enhance the nutritional value and add a unique twist to the flavor profile.
If you're looking for a heartier version, consider adding a can of white beans for extra protein and creaminess. You can also adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a hint of heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups whole grain egg noodles
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Make sure to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Chop the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and set aside.
Add Ingredients to Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
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 and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add Noodles
Add the whole grain egg noodles to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Serve
Season with salt to taste and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy your healthy and hearty soup!
Storage Tips
To ensure the best quality and taste, it's important to store your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup correctly. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This will help prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can dilute the flavors. Label the containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
For short-term storage, keep the soup in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you're planning to enjoy the soup later, consider freezing it. The soup can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup with a slice of whole-grain bread or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the warm soup. For a more filling option, consider serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich made with whole-grain bread and low-fat cheese.
If you're hosting a gathering or family dinner, this soup can be a great starter. Serve it in small bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Guests will appreciate the inviting aroma and delicious taste, making it a memorable part of your meal.
Health Benefits
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is not just delicious; it's also packed with health benefits. The combination of lean chicken and an array of vegetables provides a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair and overall health.
The vegetables in the soup, such as carrots and celery, contribute to your daily intake of fiber and essential nutrients. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. By opting for whole grain egg noodles, you also increase the fiber content, making this soup a nutritious choice that satisfies hunger and supports a balanced diet.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to increase the cooking time.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as peas, green beans, or corn.
→ Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free noodles to make this recipe gluten-free.
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
Healthy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days. It is packed with nutrients and flavors, making it a delicious option for a wholesome dinner.
Created by: Freya Cooper
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
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups whole grain egg noodles
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Chop the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and set aside.
Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add the whole grain egg noodles to the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Season with salt to taste and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 22g