Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Discover the ease of making a comforting bowl of ramen-inspired soup with this slow cooker recipe. Just set it and forget it!
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is a perfect meal for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously satisfying dish that the whole family will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal hands-on time
- Rich, savory flavors that deepen during slow cooking
- A warm, comforting bowl perfect for any occasion
The Beauty of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a wonderful method that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful meal. This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup showcases just how effortless this cooking technique can be. With minimal preparation time, you can enjoy a hearty, homemade soup that simmers for hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It's perfect for busy days when you want a nutritious meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
One of the most appealing aspects of slow cooking is its versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to swap in different vegetables or proteins, such as tofu or shrimp, for a unique twist. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, so you can experiment without the worry of overcooking or ruining your meal.
Nutritional Benefits of Ramen-Inspired Soup
This ramen-inspired soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein and essential vitamins, while the array of vegetables like bok choy, carrots, and mushrooms deliver a wealth of vitamins and minerals. This combination creates a balanced dish that nourishes the body and warms the soul, making it an ideal meal for any season.
Additionally, the inclusion of ginger and garlic not only enhances the flavor profile but also offers potential health benefits. Both ingredients are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can support your immune system. By enjoying this soup, you’re not just treating your taste buds; you’re also giving your body a wholesome boost.
Serving Suggestions and Customizations
To elevate your ramen-inspired soup experience, consider serving it with soft-boiled eggs. The creamy yolk adds a luxurious texture and richness that complements the broth beautifully. You can also top your soup with fresh green onions and nori sheets for added flavor and visual appeal. These finishing touches not only enhance the dish but also make it more satisfying and authentic.
If you’re looking to customize your soup further, try adding a splash of chili oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra kick. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, this slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup can be tailored to fit your palate perfectly, ensuring every bowl is a personal favorite.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped bok choy
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Cooked ramen noodles
- Soft-boiled eggs
- Additional sliced green onions
- Nori sheets
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting the slow cooker.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the sliced mushrooms, chopped bok choy, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil on top.
Add the Broth
Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded when done.
Shred and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine. Serve hot over cooked ramen noodles, topped with soft-boiled eggs, additional green onions, and nori sheets if desired.
Enjoy your delicious ramen-inspired soup!
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing this soup is easy. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The soup can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. The flavors may intensify after sitting, making it even more delicious the next day.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. This makes it a convenient option for those busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal without the fuss.
Pairing Suggestions
This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light accompaniment, consider a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. The crispness of the cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup, making for a balanced meal.
If you're looking to add a bit more substance, serve your soup with steamed dumplings or spring rolls. These bite-sized treats complement the flavors of the ramen and make for a more filling dining experience. Whichever sides you choose, this soup will undoubtedly shine as the star of the meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be drier than thighs.
→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth.
→ How can I store leftover soup?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the noodles until you reheat it.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Discover the ease of making a comforting bowl of ramen-inspired soup with this slow cooker recipe. 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 chicken broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped bok choy
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Cooked ramen noodles
- Soft-boiled eggs
- Additional sliced green onions
- Nori sheets
How-To Steps
Begin by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the sliced mushrooms, chopped bok choy, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil on top.
Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded when done.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine. Serve hot over cooked ramen noodles, topped with soft-boiled eggs, additional green onions, and nori sheets if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 20g