Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the comforting flavors of ramen without the fuss in this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights!
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is the answer to your busy weeknight dinners. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, this soup will warm you from the inside out. Just set your slow cooker and let it do the work!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory broth that soothes the soul
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Loaded with fresh vegetables for added nutrition
- Perfectly cooked ramen noodles that soak up all the flavors
The Comfort of Homemade Broth
Nothing beats the rich, savory aroma of homemade broth simmering in your kitchen. This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup takes the time and effort out of making broth from scratch while still delivering that soul-soothing flavor. By combining chicken thighs, vegetables, and umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce and miso paste, you'll create a broth that warms the heart and fills the belly.
As the ingredients meld together over hours of slow cooking, you'll be amazed at how the flavors develop. Each bowl of soup will offer a taste that rivals your favorite ramen shop without the need for any specialized tools or techniques. It's a simple yet effective way to bring the essence of ramen into your home.
Versatile and Nutritious Ingredients
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like carrots and mushrooms adds essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish not just a comfort food, but a wholesome meal as well. You can easily customize the vegetable blend to include your favorites, such as bell peppers or spinach, to boost the nutritional profile even further.
Moreover, using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures that the soup remains tender and flavorful without excessive fat. The slow cooking method allows the chicken to become fork-tender, making it a perfect addition to your ramen-inspired soup. This recipe is a great way to sneak in healthy ingredients for both adults and kids alike.
A Quick and Easy Dinner Solution
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. That's where this slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup comes in handy. With minimal preparation time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while going about your day. When you return home, a warm and comforting meal awaits you.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. You can easily double the batch to ensure you have leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. The flavors only get better as the soup sits, making it a perfect option for those who love to enjoy their meals over a couple of days.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 3 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- Soft-boiled eggs, for garnish
- Additional green onions, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, mushrooms, carrots, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, miso paste, ginger, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Cook the Ramen Noodles
About 15 minutes before serving, cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.
Serve
In bowls, place a serving of ramen noodles and ladle the soup over them. Top with soft-boiled eggs and additional green onions as desired.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your ramen-inspired soup experience, consider pairing it with some delicious sides. A simple cucumber salad tossed with sesame oil and rice vinegar can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup. Alternatively, some crispy spring rolls can add an enjoyable crunch and complement the flavors of the broth beautifully.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, you could also serve your soup with a side of chili oil or Sriracha. Just a few drops can enhance the flavor profile and add a delightful kick to every spoonful.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This soup stores quite well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep the ramen noodles separate until you're ready to serve to prevent them from becoming soggy. You can easily reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave.
For longer storage, consider freezing the broth and shredded chicken separately. This allows you to enjoy a quick meal later by simply reheating the broth and adding fresh ramen noodles. It's an excellent way to save time while still enjoying a homemade meal.
Customization Ideas
One of the best aspects of this slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. You can also experiment with different types of noodles, such as soba or udon, to give the dish a unique twist.
Don't hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Beyond soft-boiled eggs and green onions, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds, seaweed strips, or even a dash of lime juice for a bright finish. Personalizing your bowl is part of the fun and can make each serving feel special.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor.
→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bok choy, spinach, or any other veggies you enjoy.
→ How long can I store the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Enjoy the comforting flavors of ramen without the fuss in this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Created by: Fiona Carter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 3 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- Soft-boiled eggs, for garnish
- Additional green onions, chopped, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, mushrooms, carrots, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, miso paste, ginger, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
About 15 minutes before serving, cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.
In bowls, place a serving of ramen noodles and ladle the soup over them. Top with soft-boiled eggs and additional green onions as desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 980mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g