Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This hearty and flavorful slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is perfect for busy days. Just set it and forget it until dinnertime!
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory broth makes it a comforting dish that warms the soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory broth that warms you up from the inside out
- Tender chicken that practically falls apart
- Packed with nutritious veggies for a wholesome meal
A Perfect Meal for Any Day
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is more than just a meal; it's a comforting embrace in a bowl. Whether it's a chilly evening or a hectic weekday, this dish offers solace and nourishment with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to focus on your day while the flavors meld beautifully.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini can be wonderful additions, ensuring that this dish remains fresh and exciting every time you make it.
Nutritional Benefits
Packed with protein from the chicken and an array of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, this soup is a nutritious choice for the whole family. Bok choy, for instance, is a fantastic source of calcium and vitamins A and C. Carrots add a touch of sweetness and are rich in beta-carotene, promoting good vision and skin health.
By using low-sodium chicken broth and controlling the amount of soy sauce, you can easily make this recipe heart-healthy. This soup not only satisfies your hunger but also provides essential nutrients for a balanced diet, making it an ideal option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this soup with a side of crispy spring rolls or a fresh salad. These accompaniments add texture and flavor, making for a complete meal that will impress your family and guests alike. You can also offer lime wedges or chili oil on the side, allowing everyone to customize their bowl to their liking.
For a heartier version, serve the soup over rice or quinoa instead of adding the ramen noodles. This not only changes the texture but also adds another layer of flavor, transforming a simple soup into a delightful bowl of goodness that guarantees satisfaction.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 packs of instant ramen noodles
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the bok choy, carrots, and mushrooms. Mince the ginger and garlic.
Add to Slow Cooker
In the slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, bok choy, carrots, mushrooms, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
Add Ramen Noodles
Add the ramen noodles to the soup and let them cook for an additional 5 minutes or until tender.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and easy to shred, choose thighs over breasts, as they are more forgiving and remain juicy throughout the cooking process. If you're short on time, you can pre-cook the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, but the slow cooker method allows for deeper flavor development.
Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can brighten the dish and add a pop of color. A drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can also enhance the flavor profile, catering to those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the ramen noodles from becoming mushy, it's best to store them separately and add them to the soup only when reheating. This way, you'll maintain the perfect texture and flavor.
When reheating, simply warm the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup gets too thick, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may not be as tender as thighs.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ramen noodles.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or snap peas.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
This hearty and flavorful slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is perfect for busy days. Just set it and forget it until dinnertime!
Created by: Phoebe Turner
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 packs of instant ramen noodles
How-To Steps
Start by chopping the bok choy, carrots, and mushrooms. Mince the ginger and garlic.
In the slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, bok choy, carrots, mushrooms, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
Add the ramen noodles to the soup and let them cook for an additional 5 minutes or until tender.
Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g