Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This delicious and comforting soup combines the flavors of classic ramen with the simplicity of a slow cooker. Just set it and forget it!
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With the perfect balance of savory broth, tender chicken, and fresh veggies, it brings the beloved ramen experience right to your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, hearty flavors that satisfy your cravings
- Effortless preparation with minimal clean-up
- Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners
The Comfort of Soup
There's something inherently soothing about a warm bowl of soup, especially as the seasons change. This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. The rich, savory broth is infused with the goodness of chicken, vegetables, and spices, making it the perfect comfort food after a long day. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
In addition to its comforting qualities, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you're in the mood for something spicy or prefer a milder flavor, this recipe can be tailored to meet your cravings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies, making it a wholesome option for the whole family.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the standout features of this soup is its meal prep-friendly nature. With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a large batch that will last throughout the week. This makes it an ideal choice for busy individuals or families looking to streamline their dinner routines. Simply portion out the soup into individual containers, and you have quick, nutritious meals ready to go. Just heat and enjoy!
Moreover, this recipe is perfect for freezing. If you find yourself with leftovers, simply let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will stay fresh for up to three months, making it easy to enjoy a homemade meal even on the busiest nights. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and you’ll have a delicious meal in minutes.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this soup with some garnishes that add a touch of flair and flavor. Thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a delightful crunch and visual appeal. For those who enjoy a kick, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes can enhance the dish. You can also offer lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish that complements the broth beautifully.
Pairing this soup with a simple side salad or some crusty bread can create a more complete meal. A fresh cucumber salad or a light Asian-inspired slaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup, while a slice of sourdough or baguette can be perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. This way, you can enjoy a balanced meal that satisfies both your hunger and your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- 2 cups baby spinach
Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences!
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the Broth and Veggies
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the green onions, garlic, ginger, carrots, and mushrooms. Stir to combine.
Season the Soup
Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
Finish the Dish
Before serving, shred the chicken in the pot. Add the ramen noodles and baby spinach, stirring until the noodles are cooked and the spinach is wilted.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds as desired.
Enjoy your warm and comforting ramen-inspired soup!
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing your leftover soup, it's important to allow it to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps to prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavors. Properly stored in the refrigerator, the soup will last for about 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prepping.
If you decide to freeze the soup, leave out the noodles until you're ready to eat. Adding them directly to the soup before freezing can make them mushy when reheated. Instead, cook fresh noodles when you're ready to enjoy the soup for a perfect texture.
Nutritional Benefits
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrition. With the inclusion of chicken thighs, you get a good source of protein that helps in muscle repair and provides lasting energy. The variety of vegetables, including carrots, mushrooms, and spinach, adds essential vitamins and minerals, making this soup a well-rounded meal.
Additionally, using low-sodium chicken broth and fresh ingredients allows you to control the sodium levels, making it a healthier option compared to store-bought soups. The antioxidants from the garlic and ginger contribute to overall well-being, making this soup beneficial for both the body and the soul.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs provide more flavor and tenderness.
→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just make sure to leave out the noodles until you're ready to serve.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
This delicious and comforting soup combines the flavors of classic ramen with the simplicity of a slow cooker. Just set it and forget it!
Created by: Harriet Collins
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 packs of instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- 2 cups baby spinach
How-To Steps
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the green onions, garlic, ginger, carrots, and mushrooms. Stir to combine.
Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
Before serving, shred the chicken in the pot. Add the ramen noodles and baby spinach, stirring until the noodles are cooked and the spinach is wilted.
Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds as desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g