Crockpot chicken soup is a comforting dish that’s both hearty and healthy. With its savory flavors and tender ingredients, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a little prep before letting the slow cooker work its magic. This recipe stands out for its unique blend of vegetables and herbs, making it a delightful meal to enjoy any time of the year.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Soup
To make this delicious crockpot chicken soup, you’ll need 6 cups of low sodium chicken stock, 2 tablespoons of butter, and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add 2 onions, chopped, along with 4 carrots, chopped, 2 parsnips, chopped, 2 ribs of celery, chopped, and 2 leeks, chopped. For seasoning, include 8 peppercorns, 1 bay leaf, 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, and 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary. The star of the dish is 2-3 pounds of bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. Don’t forget kosher salt and black pepper to taste, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, 3/4 cup of dry farro, and 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro and/or mixed herbs.
Optional Ingredients and Variations
You can customize your soup with some optional ingredients. Consider adding different vegetables, such as potatoes or green beans. If you prefer a heartier soup, use pasta instead of farro. For a fun twist, top your soup with stove-popped popcorn for added crunch!
Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
First, in a slow cooker, combine the chicken stock, butter, olive oil, onions, carrots, parsnips, celery, leeks, peppercorns, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Next, add the chicken, cover, and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Cooking the Soup in the Crockpot
About 45 minutes before serving, take out the chicken and discard the herbs. Then, mix in the lemon juice, zest, and farro. Shred the chicken and return it to the soup, cooking until the farro is tender.
Finishing Touches and Serving Suggestions
Finally, serve the soup in bowls, topped with fresh herbs, and accompanied by crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth. This warm, inviting dish is sure to be a hit!
Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Chicken Soup
Storage and Leftover Tips
For storage, consider removing the farro before storing the leftovers. This prevents it from soaking up too much broth. You can also cook noodles separately for individual servings. When reheating, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Suggested Variations for Flavor and Texture
To enhance the flavor of your chicken soup, try adding a splash of white wine or a dash of hot sauce. Fresh ingredients like garlic or ginger can also elevate the profile. Changing the herbs can lead to new flavor combinations that keep this recipe exciting!
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for a basic crockpot chicken soup?
For a basic crockpot chicken soup, you will need chicken stock, butter, olive oil, onions, carrots, parsnips, celery, leeks, peppercorns, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, chicken breasts or thighs, lemon, farro, and fresh herbs.
How long should I cook chicken soup in a crockpot?
You should cook chicken soup in a crockpot on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Can I use frozen chicken for crockpot chicken soup?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for crockpot chicken soup. Just ensure it cooks thoroughly and reaches the appropriate internal temperature.
What are some tips for enhancing the flavor of chicken soup?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding white wine, fresh garlic, or a variety of herbs. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten the taste.
How do I store and reheat leftover crockpot chicken soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Related Recipes to try
- Crockpot Soups
- Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Crockpot Chicken And Dumplings
- Chicken Enchilada Soup
- Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Conclusion
In conclusion, this crockpot chicken soup is not only simple to prepare but also rich in flavor and comfort. For more delicious ideas, visit our Pinterest page, where you’ll discover a world of inspiration and tasty recipes to try, including exciting options like homemade chicken pot pie and savory chicken and dumplings.
Crockpot Chicken Soup: A Comforting Delight
Ingredients
- 6 cups low sodium chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 2 parsnips, chopped
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 2 leeks, chopped
- 8 peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2-3 pounds bone-in chicken breasts or thighs
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- ¾ cup dry farro
- ½ cup fresh cilantro and/or mixed herbs
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine chicken stock, butter, olive oil, onions, carrots, parsnips, celery, leeks, peppercorns, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken, cover, and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- About 45 minutes before serving, take out the chicken and discard the herbs. Mix in the lemon juice, zest, and farro. Shred the chicken and return it to the soup, cooking until the farro is tender.
- Serve the soup in bowls, topped with herbs, and accompanied by bread.