There’s nothing quite like a hearty crockpot soup to warm you up on a chilly day! I remember the first time I made this comforting dish; it was a rainy Saturday, and the smell of the soup simmering in the background made the whole house feel cozy. The beauty of this crockpot soup is that you just toss everything in, set it, and forget it—perfect for busy days or when I just want to relax. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and flavors that meld beautifully over hours of slow cooking. Plus, it simplifies meal prep like a dream, leaving you with more time to snuggle up and enjoy a bowl (or two!). Trust me, you’re going to love this recipe!
Ingredients for Crockpot Soup
- 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 4 cups chicken broth, low-sodium preferred
- 2 cups diced vegetables (I love using a mix of carrots, celery, and potatoes for a nice crunch!)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 tsp garlic powder, for that lovely savory flavor
- 1 tsp onion powder, because who doesn’t love a hint of onion?
- Salt to taste, I usually go light and add more later if needed
- Pepper to taste, freshly cracked is the best!
How to Prepare Crockpot Soup
Making this delicious crockpot soup is as easy as pie! I love how you can just set it and forget it, and the flavors do all the work for you. Here’s how to whip it up:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, grab your crockpot and place the boneless, skinless chicken breast right at the bottom. No need to chop it up just yet!
- Next, pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth. This is going to create a lovely, savory base for your soup.
- Now, it’s time to add those beautiful diced vegetables. I usually toss in carrots, celery, and potatoes for a colorful mix, but feel free to get creative!
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices, then sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder. Oh, the aroma is already fantastic!
- Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember, you can always add more later, so start light!
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours, but I recommend low for the best flavor.
- When it’s done, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup for that hearty finish. Give it a good stir, and you’re ready to serve!
And voilà! You’ve got yourself a comforting bowl of crockpot soup that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: You literally toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic. No fussing over the stove!
- Flavorful Goodness: The long, slow cooking time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and comforting taste.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and nutritious veggies, this soup is a healthy choice that makes me feel good about what I’m eating.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeks—make a big batch and you’ve got lunches or quick dinners sorted!
- Customizable: Don’t have a particular vegetable on hand? Swap them out! You can easily adapt this recipe to fit what you love or what’s in your fridge.
- Freezer-Friendly: Leftovers can be frozen for later—just reheat and enjoy a cozy bowl whenever you need a pick-me-up!
- Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. Who doesn’t love a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day?
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your crockpot soup turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are my top tips to elevate your soup game:
- Don’t Skip the Searing: If you have a bit of extra time, consider searing the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. It adds a lovely depth of flavor that makes a difference!
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to play around with the vegetables! Frozen mixed veggies work great too, and you can even toss in some leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for a nutrient boost.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley added at the end of cooking for a fresh pop of flavor. Dried herbs can also be added at the beginning for extra depth.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Storage Smart: Always let your soup cool completely before storing it. Use airtight containers for the fridge or freezer, and label them with the date so you know what’s what!
- Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your soup before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Cook with Love: Seriously, it sounds cheesy, but cooking with good vibes makes all the difference! Put on your favorite music and enjoy the process.
By following these tips, you’ll be a crockpot soup pro in no time! Happy cooking!
Variations of Crockpot Soup
One of the best things about my crockpot soup is how versatile it is! You can easily switch up ingredients to keep things exciting. Here are some of my favorite variations:
- Veggie Medley: Swap out the veggies for whatever you have on hand! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet corn can add a delightful twist.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. It’ll give your soup a nice kick!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Fresh basil or dill added at the end can elevate the flavors and make your soup taste gourmet.
- Protein Switch-Up: Don’t just stick to chicken! Try using turkey, beef, or even beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Creamy Version: For a rich and creamy soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It’s heavenly!
- Italian Flair: Add some Italian seasoning, like oregano and thyme, and serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. It’s like a cozy bowl of Italy!
- Asian Inspired: For a different flavor profile, consider adding soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. Toss in some bok choy or mushrooms for a delightful twist.
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these ideas! Cooking should be fun, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this crockpot soup your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some delicious leftovers from your crockpot soup—awesome! Storing and reheating them properly is key to enjoying that warm, comforting goodness later. Here’s how to do it:
- Cool It Down: First things first, let your soup cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps your soup from becoming watery.
- Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. I like to use glass containers because they’re durable and don’t hold onto odors. Just make sure they’re sealed tight!
- Refrigeration: You can store your soup in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just label the containers with the date so you know when to enjoy them by!
- Freezing for Later: If you want to keep it longer, this soup freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, here’s how to reheat it:
- Thawing: If frozen, it’s best to thaw your soup overnight in the fridge. If you’re in a hurry, you can run the container under warm water or microwave it for a few minutes to loosen it up.
- Stovetop Reheating: Pour your soup into a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if it’s a bit thick!
- Microwave Reheating: If you’re using a microwave, transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot. Be careful, it can get steamy!
And voila! You’re all set to dive back into that comforting bowl of crockpot soup whenever the craving hits. Enjoy every last spoonful!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delightful crockpot soup! While I’m all about enjoying the flavors and comforting vibes, it’s good to know what you’re putting in your body. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one bowl of this hearty soup:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, you can feel good about enjoying a bowl of this nourishing crockpot soup! It’s packed with protein from the chicken and filled with fiber from those lovely veggies. So, go ahead and dig in—you’ve earned it!
FAQ About Crockpot Soup
Got questions about making this delicious crockpot soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my answers to help you on your soup-making journey:
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can toss frozen chicken breasts straight into the crockpot. Just make sure to increase the cooking time by about an hour if you’re cooking on low, or cook on high for about 4-5 hours.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No problem! You can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. Just note that using broth will add more flavor to your soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply replace the chicken with your favorite beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead. You’ll still get a hearty and fulfilling soup!
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you’re shredding it, it should easily pull apart with forks. If it’s not shredding easily, let it cook a bit longer.
Can I add pasta or rice to the soup?
Yes, you can! If you’d like to add pasta or rice, stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Just make sure to add a little extra broth to keep it from getting too thick.
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can keep the leftover crockpot soup in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just remember to store it in airtight containers to keep it fresh!
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially when you use gluten-free broth. Just double-check any packaged ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients, and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
If you have more questions or need help with your own crockpot soup adventures, feel free to reach out! I’m here for all your cooking queries!
Imprimer
Crockpot Soup: 7 Comforting Recipes for Chilly Days
- Temps Total: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A hearty and comforting crockpot soup.
Ingrédients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups diced vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth and diced vegetables.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Shred chicken before serving.
Notes
- Great for meal prep.
- Can substitute vegetables as desired.
- Freeze leftovers for later use.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 6-8 hours
- Catégorie: Soup
- Méthode: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 bowl
- Calories: 300
- Sucre: 4g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 6g
- Graisses Saturées: 1g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 5g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 30g
- La fibre: 5g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 70mg
Mots-clés: crockpot soup, chicken soup, easy soup
