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: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups water; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, sliced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon miso paste; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 2 cups baby spinach; 4 green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Ramen noodles, cooked according to package instructions

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting, savory soup that simmers all day in your slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:49:08.939Z

This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is perfect for busy weeknights. Just set it and forget it, and come home to a warm, hearty meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Convenient slow-cooker preparation for busy days
A deliciously rich broth that warms you from the inside out
Customizable with your favorite ramen toppings

      

The Comfort of Slow Cooking

There’s something incredibly soothing about the aroma of a warm soup bubbling away in your slow cooker. As the hours pass, the ingredients release their flavors, creating a deeply satisfying broth that is as nourishing for the soul as it is for the body. This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is the perfect example of how time can enhance taste, allowing you to simply set it and forget it while you go about your day.

The beauty of slow cooking lies in its simplicity and convenience. Just toss all the ingredients into the pot in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy. This method not only saves you time, but it also makes cleanup a breeze—no need to hover over the stove stirring constantly or worrying about burning your dish.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This chicken ramen-inspired soup is not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients. The chicken thighs provide a great source of protein, while the addition of garlic and ginger not only boosts flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Together, these ingredients create a wholesome meal that can help support your immune system, making it a perfect dish for those chilly nights when comfort food is a must.

Adding baby spinach and mushrooms not only enhances the flavor profile but also increases the nutritional value of your soup. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while mushrooms are a fantastic source of antioxidants. By incorporating these healthy ingredients, you’re not only indulging in a comforting bowl of soup but also nourishing your body.

Customizing Your Ramen Experience

One of the best things about this slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different toppings to suit your taste. Soft-boiled eggs, nori, and pickled vegetables can add unique flavors and textures that elevate your bowl to a whole new level. You can also play around with various types of noodles, such as udon or soba, to switch up the base of your soup.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a splash of sriracha or chili oil just before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more exciting. The sky’s the limit when it comes to customizing your ramen experience—get creative and make it your own!

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, sliced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon miso paste
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 cups baby spinach
4 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Ramen noodles, cooked according to package instructions

Feel free to add more vegetables or toppings based on your preference!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In the slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, miso paste, sesame oil, and mushrooms.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

Add Spinach and Serve

Stir in the baby spinach and green onions. Serve hot over cooked ramen noodles.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting soup!

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Soup

To achieve the best results with your slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup, it's important to use quality ingredients. Fresh chicken thighs will yield more flavor compared to frozen ones, so opt for fresh when possible. Additionally, using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish, making it healthier overall.

Don’t skip the miso paste! It adds a rich depth of flavor that is characteristic of traditional ramen. If you can find white miso, it will provide a milder taste, while red miso offers a stronger, more robust flavor. Experimenting with different types of miso can help you discover your preferred taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is likely, given the comforting nature of this soup), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the soup even tastier on the second day. When storing, keep the noodles separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.

To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot over medium heat until heated through. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. If you’re reheating individual portions, the microwave is a quick option—just be sure to cover the bowl to avoid splatters.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving your slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup with a side of crispy tempura vegetables or gyoza. These dishes complement the flavors of the soup and create a satisfying dining experience. You can also pair it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.

When serving, make sure to ladle the soup over the cooked ramen noodles for the best experience. Encourage your guests to add their favorite toppings to personalize their bowls, making it an interactive and fun meal that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful in slow cooking.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container 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.