There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of crockpot chicken soup. Picture it: tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a fragrant broth that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. It’s the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell like a grandma’s hug, inviting everyone to gather and share stories over bowls of warmth. The best part? You can toss everything into your trusty crockpot and let it work its magic while you kick back with a cup of coffee or catch up on your favorite show.

I remember the first time I made this crockpot chicken soup for my family. It was one of those rainy days where even the sun seemed to be hiding under the clouds. My kids came home from school, dripping wet and cold, and when they caught a whiff of that savory goodness wafting through the house, their eyes lit up like Christmas morning. The smiles on their faces were priceless, proving once again that food has an incredible power to bring joy and comfort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This crockpot chicken soup is easy to prepare; just chop and toss everything in
- The flavors blend beautifully as it cooks low and slow
- Its warm colors and rich aroma make it visually appealing while embracing you in comfort
- Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something hearty yet simple!
Anytime I make this soup, I hear a chorus of “Yum!” from everyone at the table. There’s just something magical about how well all the ingredients meld together after simmering for hours.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 pieces; they’re easy to shred later for that perfect texture.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness; choose firm ones for best results.
Celery Stalks: Celery brings crunch and flavor; look for bright green stalks.
Onion: A medium onion enhances depth; chop it finely for better flavor distribution.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves are key; they infuse the broth with aromatic goodness.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it forms the flavorful base.
Dried Thyme: This herb adds an earthy note; opt for fresh if available.
Bay Leaves: These leaves impart complexity; don’t forget to remove them before serving!
Salt and Pepper: Adjust these seasonings according to taste for perfect seasoning balance.
Frozen Peas: Add these at the end for color and sweetness; they cook quickly!
Lemon Juice: A splash at the end brightens flavors remarkably; fresh juice works best.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing all your veggies thoroughly. Chop carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into small pieces so they soften nicely during cooking.
Add Chicken and Broth: Place your chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot first. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover them completely—this ensures juicy meat!
Toss in Vegetables: Add in chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken. Give everything a gentle stir to mix.
Cover and Cook: Securely place the lid on your crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Resist the urge to peek too often!
Shred Chicken: Once done cooking (or when you’re ready), remove the chicken breasts carefully using tongs. Shred them with two forks until it’s all nice and fluffy.
Add Final Touches: Return shredded chicken back into the pot along with frozen peas and lemon juice. Stir well and let everything blend together on low heat for another 10 minutes before serving.
This humble crockpot chicken soup is not just any dish; it’s a delightful experience that fills your home with love while feeding bellies hungry for warmth!
You Must Know
- This delightful crockpot chicken soup is more than comfort food; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The savory aroma fills your kitchen, making it impossible for anyone to resist
- Perfect for busy days, it simmers while you tackle life’s chaos
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker for extra flavor. Sauté onions and garlic first to enhance the soup’s richness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this soup with seasonal vegetables or herbs from your garden. Swapping chicken for turkey or adding spicy peppers can elevate the taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover crockpot chicken soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat; they hold up better during slow cooking
- Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens flavors and aromas significantly
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning according to your preference
I remember the first time I made this crockpot chicken soup; my friends devoured it so quickly I barely got a bowl myself!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken works well, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
What other vegetables can I add to my crockpot chicken soup?
Carrots, celery, potatoes, and leafy greens are all fantastic additions.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply ensure that broth and any added seasonings are gluten-free options.

Crockpot Chicken Soup
Crockpot chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a warm and inviting bowl that feels like a hug. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the work, you can enjoy delicious homemade soup with ease. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor the flavors of this delightful recipe.
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by washing and chopping the vegetables.
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot and cover with chicken broth.
- Add chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper on top of the chicken. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pot.
- Stir in frozen peas and lemon juice; let simmer on low for an additional 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg