Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup

Name: Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups water; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup baby spinach; 4 green onions, sliced; 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen-inspired soup with minimal effort. This slow cooker recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:22:10.954Z

This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is perfect for busy weeknights. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory broth that warms the soul
Easy preparation with minimal hands-on time
Perfectly tender chicken that falls apart in your bowl
Customizable toppings for every palate

      

The Comfort of Ramen-Inspired Flavors

Ramen is more than just a meal; it's a comforting experience that warms both the body and soul. This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup brings together all the beloved flavors of traditional ramen, creating a dish that feels both familiar and exciting. The rich, savory broth serves as the perfect base, infusing every ingredient with deep umami notes that enhance the overall flavor profile. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a cozy meal, this soup is sure to satisfy.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By utilizing a slow cooker, you can let the ingredients meld together while you focus on your day. There's no need for complicated techniques or constant supervision. Just add the ingredients, set it, and let the magic happen. The result is a hearty soup that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but in reality, it took minimal effort.

Versatility in Every Bowl

One of the best aspects of this slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Top your bowl with fresh herbs, soft-boiled eggs, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a kick. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for families, as everyone can personalize their bowl to their liking.

Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables. Feel free to toss in any greens or veggies you have on hand, such as bok choy, carrots, or bell peppers. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the texture and flavor of the dish. With each bowl, you can create a unique and satisfying meal.

Meal Prep Made Easy

This slow cooker soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for several days. The flavors only improve as they sit, making leftovers even more delicious. Store portions in airtight containers, and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy another comforting bowl. It's a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the hassle.

Moreover, the ingredients are budget-friendly and widely available, making this soup an economical choice for families or individuals looking to save. With just a few staple items, you can create a nourishing and satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup baby spinach
4 green onions, sliced
2 packs of ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and mushrooms. Stir gently to combine.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Add Noodles and Spinach

About 15 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it. Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the ramen noodles and baby spinach. Cover and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with sliced green onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious ramen-inspired soup!

Tips

Tips for Perfecting Your Soup

To ensure your slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup turns out perfectly every time, consider using bone-in chicken thighs for added flavor and richness. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless thighs work just as well. Remember to adjust the cooking time if using different cuts of chicken, as they may require more or less time to become tender.

Don’t forget to taste your broth! Every chicken broth is different, so it’s essential to taste before serving. Adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce or salt if needed to achieve your desired flavor. A splash of rice vinegar can also brighten up the broth beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. When freezing, it’s best to leave out the noodles, as they can become mushy upon reheating. Instead, cook fresh noodles when you're ready to enjoy the soup again.

To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients

This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken provides a great source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of spinach adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including iron and Vitamin K, making it a nutrient-dense option.

Mushrooms are another fantastic ingredient in this recipe, offering not only flavor but also antioxidants and essential nutrients. With the combination of wholesome ingredients, this soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your health and wellness goals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may be a bit drier than thighs.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Toppings like soft-boiled eggs, sliced jalapeños, or fresh cilantro work great!