Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen with minimal effort. This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is perfect for busy days.
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is a game changer for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of slow cooking, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Simple preparation with minimal cleanup
- Rich umami flavors that warm the soul
- Perfectly tender chicken that falls apart in your bowl
The Comfort of Ramen Soup
Ramen is more than just a dish; it's an experience. The warm, savory broth paired with tender noodles creates a comforting meal that soothes the soul. This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup captures that essence, allowing you to enjoy rich flavors without the hassle of traditional ramen preparation. It's perfect for chilly evenings or when you're craving something hearty and wholesome.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a delicious bowl of soup waiting for you at the end of a long day. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the broth with deep, umami flavors as the chicken cooks to perfection.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this chicken ramen-inspired soup delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of mushrooms and carrots adds vitamins and minerals, making this soup a balanced meal.
Using low-sodium chicken broth helps to keep the dish heart-healthy, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors without excess salt. Plus, the fresh green onions not only enhance the taste but also offer antioxidants that support your immune system.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the great things about this slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can add bok choy, spinach, or even a soft-boiled egg for extra richness. If you're looking for a bit of heat, a dash of chili flakes or sriracha can elevate the flavor profile.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This soup can easily be tailored to suit various dietary needs while still providing that comforting, ramen-inspired goodness.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for your soup:
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ensure you have everything ready before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your soup:
Prepare the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, mushrooms, carrots, green onions, soy sauce, miso paste, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
Cook the Soup
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 hours.
Add the Noodles
After 6 hours, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the ramen noodles, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.
Your delicious soup is ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Perfect Soup
To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, it's essential to use high-quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken broth will greatly enhance the flavor. Additionally, avoid overcooking the noodles; they should be tender but not mushy. Adding them towards the end of the cooking time helps maintain their texture.
Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning. Everyone's palate is different, and what might be perfect for one person may need a little extra salt or soy sauce for another. A final sprinkle of fresh green onions before serving adds a lovely crunch and fresh flavor.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it's best to add a little extra broth or water to avoid drying out the noodles. Gently heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup without the noodles. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat, adding fresh noodles during the final cooking stages for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy tempura vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal. For those looking for extra flavor, consider serving it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil.
For a more authentic ramen experience, serve the soup with traditional accompaniments like nori (seaweed), bamboo shoots, or pickled ginger. These additions not only enhance the dish's visual appeal but also add layers of flavor and texture that make each bite a delight.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs provide more flavor and remain tender during cooking.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bok choy, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
→ How long can I store the leftovers?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, the soup freezes well. Just make sure to 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 with minimal effort. This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is perfect for busy days.
Created by: Elodie Brooks
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a slow cooker, add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, mushrooms, carrots, green onions, soy sauce, miso paste, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 hours.
After 6 hours, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the ramen noodles, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g