Introduction
When the weather turns chilly or you’re simply craving a warm, nourishing meal, nothing quite warms the soul like a bowl of homemade chicken vegetable soup. This Crockpot Chicken Vegetable Soup is the perfect solution for busy days, allowing you to toss in fresh ingredients and let your slow cooker work its magic. Infused with a delightful blend of herbs and bursting with vibrant vegetables, this soup is a hug in a bowl!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups carrots, chopped
- 2 cups celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the chopped carrots, celery, diced onion, and minced garlic.
- Sprinkle the dried thyme, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper over the vibrant mixture.
- Cover and set your slow cooker on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and fully cooked.
- Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot, and using two forks, shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot.
- Next, stir in the frozen peas, corn kernels, and the chopped spinach or kale, ensuring they’re well incorporated.
- Let the soup simmer on low for an additional 30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Just before serving, squeeze the fresh juice of one lemon into the pot to brighten the flavors.
- Give it a taste and adjust any seasoning as needed before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand; zucchini or green beans make excellent additions!
- This soup freezes well, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeknights.
- For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream when serving.
Cooking Techniques
Using a crockpot not only makes this soup incredibly simple, but it also enhances the flavors through slow cooking. The low heat allows the chicken to become tender and the vegetables to soften perfectly, creating a rich and hearty broth. If you’re new to slow cooking, be sure to familiarize yourself with your specific crockpot’s settings for optimal results.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can! Just cook them a bit longer on low until they reach the desired tenderness.
- How do I store leftovers? Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Is this soup gluten-free? Absolutely! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken Vegetable Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its hearty ingredients and effortless preparation, you can gather everyone around for a lovely dinner without the fuss. So grab your slow cooker, fill it with these wholesome ingredients, and let the aromas fill your home. Enjoy every spoonful of this nourishing delight!