Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Soup Recipe

In this article, we will guide you through preparing a hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Soup. This dish is perfect for those cold winter days or when you simply want something warm to enjoy during the evening.

The slow cooker method ensures that all ingredients meld together slowly, resulting in tender chicken pieces and rich, flavorful broth. The preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, while the total cooking time ranges from 6 to 8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. This meal serves 6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds of bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks, skin removed (for more flavor, you can add the skin back in later)
• 1 large onion, chopped finely
• 4 carrots, sliced into rounds
• 2 stalks celery, sliced thinly
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt to taste (optional)
• 6 cups of chicken broth (or water if you prefer a lighter version)
• 1 cup of frozen peas and corn, added towards the end of cooking time (optional)

Instructions

To prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Soup, follow these steps:

1. Begin by placing your chicken thighs and drumsticks into a large slow cooker.
2. Add the finely chopped onions, sliced carrots, celery, minced garlic, dried thyme, black pepper, bay leaves, and salt (if using). Mix everything well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed around the chicken pieces.
3. Pour in six cups of chicken broth. The liquid should cover most parts of the chicken, but not be overly submerged – aim for a ratio where the chicken is partially submerged, with some parts above and below the liquid line.
4. Once everything is in place, cover the slow cooker tightly with its lid. Set your slow cooker to "low" if you're leaving it overnight or for several hours. If you are home within three to four hours, set it on high.
5. After about 6-8 hours (depending on how long you've been cooking), check the chicken and vegetables. The chicken should be tender enough that it can easily fall off the bone with a fork or spoon. At this point, taste the soup to see if you'd like to add more salt for extra seasoning.
6. For those who prefer their soups with added texture and color, add the frozen peas and corn towards the last 30 minutes of cooking time. This will allow them to cook through without becoming mushy or too green.
7. If using a high setting, you may need less liquid than when on low; adjust as necessary by adding more broth if needed.

Additional Tips & Variations

For a heartier meal, consider serving this soup with a side of crusty bread or dumplings. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences, such as rosemary, parsley, or even a splash of lemon juice right before serving.

If you're looking for alternatives beyond the standard slow-cooked chicken soup, there are several ways to enhance its flavor profile:

• Adding mushrooms like portobello or cremini for a richer umami taste
• Incorporating other meats such as turkey, beef, or pork into the mix
Additions of spices like cumin and chili powder to create a Mexican-inspired version

Conclusion

With this Slow Cooker Chicken Soup Recipe, you can easily prepare a delicious and nourishing dish that is sure to satisfy the entire family. Whether it's for a cozy dinner or a casual lunchtime meal, this soup promises warmth and satisfaction every time.