Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Soup

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish, look no further than Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Soup. This recipe is perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting bowl of goodness. The best part? You can let your slow cooker do most of the work for you.

Why Make This Recipe

This creamy chicken soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that warms the heart and fills the stomach. It’s also a great way to use chicken breasts, and the slow cooking process allows all the flavors to blend beautifully. Plus, it’s a fantastic meal prep option. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Soup

Creating this delightful soup is a straightforward process. Just follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium white onion (diced)
2 tablespoons minced garlic
4 medium carrots (cut into bite-sized chunks)
4 ribs celery (sliced)
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup cooking wine (optional)
4 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnishing)
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup water

Directions:

Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked. Transfer to a cutting board and shred.
Add all ingredients, except the parsley, to the slow cooker.
Mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Pour into the slow cooker.
Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Season with more salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves and serve hot with a garnish of parsley.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Soup

Serve this creamy chicken soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a side salad. You can also add a sprinkle of more black pepper or even a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of spice!

How to Store Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Soup

If you have leftovers (which is likely because this soup is so good!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to allow it to cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Soup

For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil.
If you prefer a thicker soup, let it cook a bit longer or add more cornstarch.
Don’t skip browning the chicken; it adds an extra depth of flavor.

Variation

You can customize this soup by adding different vegetables like potatoes or green beans. If you’re looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they may require a little more cooking time.

2. Is the cooking wine necessary?
The cooking wine adds richness, but you can skip it if you prefer or substitute it with more chicken broth.

3. Can I use other types of meat in this soup?
Yes! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey if that’s what you have on hand. Enjoy this versatile recipe in whatever way suits your taste!

Enjoy making and savoring your delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Soup!