Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Experience the comforting flavors of ramen in a simple slow cooker recipe that practically makes itself.
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day. The result is a hearty, flavorful soup that brings the essence of ramen right to your kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory broth that warms your soul
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- A great way to sneak in vegetables for the family
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There's something incredibly soothing about a bowl of homemade soup, especially when it combines the rich, savory flavors reminiscent of your favorite ramen. This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup brings together comforting ingredients that meld together beautifully during the slow cooking process. The aroma of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
Using a slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows the flavors to develop fully, creating a broth that is both deep and satisfying. By the time it's ready to serve, the chicken is tender and infused with all the delicious seasonings, making it an easy go-to meal for busy weeknights.
Nutritional Benefits of Ramen-Inspired Soup
One of the best aspects of this slow cooker soup is how easily you can incorporate nutritious ingredients. With mushrooms, carrots, and green onions, this dish is an excellent way to sneak in vegetables that your family will love. The addition of miso paste not only enriches the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile with probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
Furthermore, chicken thighs are a great source of protein, providing essential nutrients while remaining tender and juicy. This soup can easily be modified to suit dietary preferences, such as using gluten-free ramen noodles or swapping in different vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze portions for later. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal that’s ready when you are.
By preparing this soup in advance, you can ensure that you have a wholesome, homemade meal on hand, saving you time and effort during busy weekdays. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both nutritious and comforting.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons miso paste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 ounces ramen noodles
- Soft-boiled eggs (for serving)
- Sliced radishes (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add Ingredients
Add the chicken broth, mushrooms, green onions, carrots, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, miso paste, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Cook the Noodles
Add the ramen noodles to the slow cooker and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Serve
Serve the soup hot, topped with soft-boiled eggs, sliced radishes, and fresh cilantro.
Tips for Success
To ensure the best flavor, consider using high-quality chicken broth as the base for your soup. Homemade broth can elevate the dish significantly, but store-bought varieties work well too. Additionally, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste; some might prefer a bit more soy sauce or a splash of lime juice for added brightness.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes when you combine the ingredients. This not only enhances the flavor but adds a delightful heat that complements the savory elements of the soup.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your ramen-inspired soup, consider adding garnishes that not only enhance the flavor but also add a visual appeal. Soft-boiled eggs are a classic topping that brings creaminess, while sliced radishes provide a crunchy contrast. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle some fried onions or sesame seeds on top before serving. These simple additions can elevate your soup from comforting to gourmet, impressing family and friends alike.
Variations to Try
Don't hesitate to experiment with different proteins or vegetables in your soup. You could substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian twist or use beef for a heartier version. Seasonal vegetables like bok choy or spinach can also be a great way to add variety and nutrition.
If you're in the mood for something different, try adding a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture or a handful of fresh herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing finish. The versatility of this soup is one of its best features, making it easy to customize to your preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more than thighs.
→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just add the noodles fresh when reheating.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Experience the comforting flavors of ramen in a simple slow cooker recipe that practically makes itself.
Created by: Elodie Brooks
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons miso paste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 ounces ramen noodles
- Soft-boiled eggs (for serving)
- Sliced radishes (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the chicken broth, mushrooms, green onions, carrots, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, miso paste, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Add the ramen noodles to the slow cooker and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Serve the soup hot, topped with soft-boiled eggs, sliced radishes, and fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 890mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g