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Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup is made using a slow cooker, transforming simple ingredients like bone-in thighs, carrots, celery, and aromatic herbs into a rich, flavorful broth. The final dish features tender shredded chicken and soft vegetables in a nourishing, steaming broth, perfect for cozy days and leftovers alike.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs skin-on preferred
  • 3 large carrots peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 lemon lemon or vinegar optional, for brightness

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker, skin-side up, creating a sturdy base for the flavors to develop.
  2. Add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic around the chicken, spreading them evenly for balanced cooking.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged for even simmering.
  4. Sprinkle the dried thyme and chopped parsley over the ingredients, then cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to low.
  5. Let the soup cook for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is tender and falling apart, and the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
  6. Carefully remove the chicken thighs from the broth and place on a cutting board; shred the meat with two forks until it’s easily pulled apart.
  7. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring it into the broth to combine all flavors evenly.
  8. Taste the broth and, if desired, squeeze in a splash of lemon or vinegar for a bright, tangy finish.
  9. Use a ladle to serve the steaming soup into bowls, making sure each has plenty of tender chicken and vegetables.
  10. Garnish with extra parsley if you like, then enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this slow-cooked chicken soup.

Notes

For an even richer broth, let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days and often taste better the next day.