Lemon-Thyme Comfort Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

Nothing says homestyle comfort quite like a bowl of chicken noodle soup. This Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup gets a bright twist with a little lemon juice and fragrant fresh thyme, making it both restorative and completely satisfying. Grab your slow cooker, gather a handful of simple ingredients, and let this soup transform any day into a cozy retreat.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced into coins
• 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs fresh thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 8 ounces egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)

Instructions

Start by placing the chicken, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in your slow cooker. Sprinkle in the thyme, then pour the chicken broth over everything. Add a few generous pinches of salt and pepper to season. Cover and cook on low heat for about 6 to 7 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.

Once the chicken is done, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir in the lemon juice for a fresh, bright note. Add the egg noodles (or pasta) and switch the slow cooker to high for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or additional lemon if you prefer extra zing.

This soup is a nourishing, restorative dish that’s perfect for busy families, chilly nights, or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, it’s an easy choice for health-conscious cooks looking for a balanced meal. Swap in whole-grain noodles for a bit of extra fiber, or vary the herbs to your liking—dill and parsley both pair beautifully with chicken. However you choose to adapt it, you’ll love the cozy warmth and bright flavors in every spoonful.