Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen-inspired soup with minimal effort. This set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days.
This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is a delightful combination of savory broth, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you crave something comforting, this recipe allows you to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort. Just set your slow cooker, and let the flavors meld together over hours, resulting in a hearty soup that warms the soul.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory broth that warms you from the inside out
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Versatile toppings to customize your bowl
- A nutritious meal that cooks itself while you go about your day
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul, especially on a busy day. This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is not just easy to prepare; it's also packed with nutrients. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the tender chicken thighs to the fresh vegetables, creating a comforting meal that nourishes your body and spirit.
Homemade soups have a distinct advantage over store-bought options. You can control the ingredients, ensuring that everything is fresh and wholesome. Plus, the aroma of this dish simmering in the slow cooker will fill your home with a delightful scent that invites everyone to gather around the table.
Whether you're coming home from a long day at work or just need a quick meal on the weekend, this recipe provides a hands-off approach to cooking. Simply set it and forget it until you’re ready to enjoy a delicious and hearty soup.
Customizing Your Ramen Bowl
One of the best aspects of this slow cooker soup is its versatility. While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize your bowl to suit your taste preferences. Add toppings like sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless!
You can also experiment with different vegetables. Consider adding bok choy, snap peas, or even corn to enhance the nutritional profile and add more texture to your soup. This customization not only makes each bowl unique but also allows you to make use of any leftover veggies in your fridge.
If you're looking for a protein boost, try adding tofu or even shrimp as an alternative to chicken. The slow cooker is forgiving, allowing you to mix and match ingredients while still achieving a flavorful result.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Soft-boiled eggs (optional, for serving)
Ensure all ingredients are prepped before adding them to your slow cooker.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your soup:
Prep the Ingredients
Start by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the sliced mushrooms, shredded carrots, and baby spinach on top.
Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Cook the Soup
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Prepare the Ramen
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the ramen noodles to the slow cooker. Stir and let them cook until tender.
Serve and Enjoy
Once done, shred the chicken in the pot with two forks. Serve the soup in bowls, garnished with chopped green onions and optional soft-boiled eggs.
Enjoy your delicious ramen-inspired soup!
Nutritional Benefits
This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is not only comforting but also nutritious. The chicken provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and energy. The addition of vegetables like spinach and carrots adds vital vitamins and minerals, making this soup a well-rounded meal.
Low-sodium chicken broth serves as the base, allowing you to enjoy rich flavors without the excess salt often found in canned soups. This makes it a heart-healthier option for those watching their sodium intake.
Additionally, the use of sesame oil and ginger not only enhances the flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall wellness.
Perfect Pairings
Pair your slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup with a light salad or a side of steamed dumplings for a complete meal experience. The freshness of a crisp salad can balance the warm, hearty flavors of the soup, making for a delightful dining experience.
For a more traditional Asian-inspired meal, consider serving the soup with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi. These tangy flavors complement the savory broth and add an exciting contrast to the dish.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider making this soup as the centerpiece and provide a variety of toppings. Guests can customize their bowls, creating a fun and interactive dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it may be less tender than thighs after cooking.
→ Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free ramen noodles.
→ 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, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen-inspired soup with minimal effort. This set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days.
Created by: Naomi Clarke
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Soft-boiled eggs (optional, for serving)
How-To Steps
Start by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the sliced mushrooms, shredded carrots, and baby spinach on top.
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the ramen noodles to the slow cooker. Stir and let them cook until tender.
Once done, shred the chicken in the pot with two forks. Serve the soup in bowls, garnished with chopped green onions and optional soft-boiled eggs.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g