Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Enjoy a comforting bowl of chicken ramen-inspired soup with minimal effort. Just set it and forget it!
This delicious slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is perfect for busy days when you want something hearty and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Just toss in the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it work its magic!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich umami flavor from soy sauce and broth
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Loaded with fresh vegetables for added nutrition
- A warm and cozy dish perfect for any season
A Perfect Meal for Busy Days
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a homemade meal can often feel like a challenge. The Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup comes to the rescue with its effortless preparation. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, and by the time dinner rolls around, you'll be greeted with a hearty, steaming bowl of goodness. This recipe is perfect for busy families, working professionals, or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without the usual hassle.
Not only does this soup save you time, but it also saves you from the stress of meal planning. With minimal prep work involved, you can spend more time focusing on the things that matter most to you while still providing a nutritious, satisfying meal for your loved ones. Plus, the enticing aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is sure to get everyone's appetite going.
Health Benefits of Homemade Soup
Making your own soup at home, like this chicken ramen-inspired version, allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that what you serve is both healthy and delicious. Packed with protein from the chicken and a variety of vitamins from the fresh vegetables, this soup not only warms your soul but also nourishes your body. Bok choy, for example, is a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and K, while mushrooms offer antioxidants and essential nutrients.
Moreover, using low-sodium chicken broth and fresh ingredients can help you avoid the preservatives and excess sodium often found in store-bought soups. This homemade version is a great way to feel good about what you're eating while still indulging in a rich, comforting flavor profile. Every spoonful is a step towards healthier eating habits.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this soup recipe is its versatility. While the ingredients listed create a fantastic base, feel free to customize it to your liking. If you have other vegetables on hand, such as bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas, throw them in for added flavor and nutrition. You can also swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, although thighs do add a rich, tender texture that is hard to beat.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha before serving. You can even experiment with different types of noodles or use zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb alternative. The possibilities are endless, making this soup a reliable go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped bok choy
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked ramen noodles (for serving)
Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preference!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, mushrooms, carrots, bok choy, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Serve
Serve the soup hot over cooked ramen noodles and garnish with sliced green onions.
Enjoy your delicious bowl of ramen-inspired soup!
Tips for Perfect Soup
To ensure your chicken is perfectly tender, avoid lifting the lid of the slow cooker during the cooking time. This helps maintain the temperature and moisture, allowing the chicken to cook evenly. If your slow cooker has a 'keep warm' setting, it's a great feature to use if you need to delay serving the soup after it’s done cooking.
Additionally, consider preparing this soup ahead of time. The flavors only deepen and improve as they meld together. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage, making this a truly convenient meal prep option.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this soup, presentation can elevate the dining experience. Consider adding a drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful finish. For a complete meal, pair the soup with a side of crispy spring rolls or a light salad to round out the dining experience.
If you're hosting a casual gathering, set up a ramen bar where guests can add their favorite toppings such as soft-boiled eggs, seaweed, or sliced chili peppers. This interactive element adds fun and encourages everyone to personalize their bowls to their liking.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, it's best to do so on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to loosen the soup. This ensures a consistent texture and flavor when serving.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers. Just be sure to leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful.
→ What if I don't have bok choy?
You can substitute bok choy with spinach or kale.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors develop even more when stored overnight in the fridge.
→ 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
Enjoy a comforting bowl of chicken ramen-inspired soup with minimal effort. Just set it and forget it!
Created by: Elara Whitfield
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped bok choy
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked ramen noodles (for serving)
How-To Steps
In a slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, mushrooms, carrots, bok choy, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Serve the soup hot over cooked ramen noodles and garnish with sliced green onions.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 740mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g