There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, isn’t there? I absolutely love the cozy feeling that washes over me as the rich, savory aroma fills my kitchen. It’s like a hug in a bowl! This crockpot recipes soup is not just delicious; it’s a lifesaver for those busy days when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss the ingredients into your trusty crockpot, and voilà! You can go about your day while it does all the work.
Using a crockpot not only makes cooking so much easier, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. You’ll get tender chicken and perfectly cooked veggies that are bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to make meals ahead of time, so you can have leftovers ready for lunch the next day or even freeze some for later. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on the ease and comfort that comes with crockpot cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups diced vegetables (carrots, celery, onions)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps for making this delicious crockpot soup! You’ll see how easy it is to whip up a hearty meal with just a few simple actions. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making this on repeat!
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- First things first, grab your trusty crockpot and place the 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast right at the bottom. You want it to soak up all those delicious flavors!
- Next, pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. This is where the magic starts! It’ll keep everything moist and flavorful. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged; it just makes for better cooking.
- Now, it’s time to add the 2 cups of diced vegetables—think carrots, celery, and onions. Feel free to toss in your favorites! Stir everything around a bit to combine.
- Then, open that can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) and dump it in. Don’t forget the 1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp dried thyme for that extra depth of flavor. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste—this is where you can adjust to your liking!
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. This long, slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for about 3-4 hours, but I really recommend the low setting for the best results.
- When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken with a pair of tongs. It should be super tender! Shred it with two forks—this is where the magic happens. Then, return the shredded chicken back to the pot and give everything a good stir.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth of your homemade soup! You’ll find it’s the perfect meal to warm you up on a chilly day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy preparation—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work!
- Healthy ingredients like lean chicken and fresh vegetables for a nourishing meal.
- A hearty option that’s perfect for chilly nights or busy weeknights.
- Customizable! You can swap in your favorite veggies or even add different proteins.
- Great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- The flavors deepen and improve the longer it cooks; it’s like a flavor party in your bowl!
- Comfort food at its finest—there’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup to lift your spirits.
Tips for Success
- Submerge the chicken: Make sure your chicken is completely submerged in the broth. This not only helps it cook evenly but also keeps it juicy and flavorful!
- Adjust seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as it cooks. Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs as you see fit.
- Use fresh vegetables: Fresh veggies not only enhance the flavor but also add a nice crunch. If you have leftovers in the fridge, toss those in too! It’s a great way to clean out the vegetable drawer.
- Cook low and slow: I can’t stress this enough! Cooking on low for 6-8 hours allows the flavors to develop beautifully. If you’re in a rush, you can speed it up, but trust me, the low setting is worth the wait!
- Shred the chicken at the end: Once it’s fully cooked, take a moment to shred the chicken before serving. This allows it to soak up more of that delicious broth and makes for a more satisfying bite.
- Store leftovers properly: If you have leftovers (which you probably will because it’s so filling!), let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days!
Variations
This crockpot soup is incredibly versatile, and I just love how easy it is to mix things up! Here are some fun ideas to customize the recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand:
- Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for turkey, beef, or even sausage! If you’re going vegetarian, try using chickpeas or lentils for a hearty plant-based option.
- Vegetable Medley: Don’t feel limited to just carrots, celery, and onions. Add in bell peppers, zucchini, corn, or even spinach! The more colorful your soup, the more fun it is to eat.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also add a splash of hot sauce at the end for that extra zing!
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs! Instead of thyme, try basil, oregano, or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro added just before serving can really brighten up the flavors.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking. It adds a rich flavor and smooth consistency that’s just divine!
- Grains Galore: Want to make it a bit heartier? Toss in some cooked rice, quinoa, or barley about an hour before it’s done cooking. This will soak up the broth and make it even more filling!
Feel free to get creative, and don’t hesitate to use what you have! Each variation can bring a whole new flavor profile to this comforting soup. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this cozy crockpot recipes soup simmering away, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make it a complete meal! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your soup experience to new heights.
- Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a thick slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping! It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth and adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad is a fantastic way to balance the warmth of the soup. I love a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette—it’s refreshing and adds a nice contrast!
- Grilled Cheese: If you’re in the mood for comfort food, a gooey grilled cheese sandwich pairs perfectly with soup. The melty cheese and crispy bread make every spoonful of soup even more satisfying.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These little gems are a fun addition! They’re buttery, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious when dipped into the soup. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up!
- Stuffed Peppers: For a heartier option, consider serving stuffed peppers on the side. They add a pop of color and flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
- Pickled Vegetables: A small side of pickled veggies can bring a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the soup—plus, they’re fun and unexpected!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas, or simply enjoy the soup on its own—it’s hearty enough to stand alone! No matter what you choose, I guarantee it’ll be a warm and satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutrition in this cozy crockpot recipes soup! It’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body while still enjoying a hearty meal, right? Here’s the estimated nutritional data per serving (about 1 cup), based on typical ingredients:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind, these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you choose, especially if you decide to add extra veggies or change up the protein. But overall, this soup is packed with wholesome goodness, making it a nutritious option that’ll leave you feeling satisfied. Enjoy your healthy meal!
FAQ Section
Got questions? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries about this delicious crockpot recipes soup. Let’s dive in!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super simple! Just let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until it’s piping hot!
Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes wonderfully. Just let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual. It’s like having a homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it!
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No problem at all! If you’re out of chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even water in a pinch—just be aware it might be a bit less flavorful. If you have some bouillon cubes or powder, you can dissolve those in water as a substitute too. The key is to keep that comforting flavor intact!
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two ahead of time and store it in the fridge. The flavors will actually deepen and improve as it sits! Just reheat and enjoy whenever you’re ready for a warm, hearty meal.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If you find that your soup has thickened up more than you’d like, simply add a little bit more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir it in while it’s heating up, and you’ll be good to go!
Can I add pasta or rice to the soup?
Definitely! If you want to make it even heartier, you can add cooked pasta or rice during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Just keep in mind that they’ll soak up some broth, so you might want to add a bit more liquid to keep it soupy and delicious!
I hope these answers help you feel more confident in making this cozy crockpot recipes soup! If you have any other questions, just let me know. Happy cooking!
Imprimer
Crockpot Recipes Soup: 7 Comforting Meals to Savor
- Temps Total: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
Delicious and easy crockpot soup recipe for a hearty meal.
Ingrédients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups diced vegetables (carrots, celery, onions)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breast in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth and diced vegetables.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Shred chicken before serving.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 6-8 hours
- Catégorie: Soup
- Méthode: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sucre: 3g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 5g
- Graisses Saturées: 1g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 4g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 20g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 80mg
Mots-clés: crockpot recipes soup
