Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome
Enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen-inspired soup with minimal effort. This slow cooker recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is perfect for busy weeknights. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker, set the timer, and let the magic happen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Aromatic broth that warms the soul
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Customizable toppings for a personalized touch
Aromatic Broth for Ultimate Comfort
One of the highlights of this Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is the aromatic broth. The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a deeply satisfying base that envelops you in warmth with every spoonful. As the soup simmers, the flavors intensify, making the broth the perfect foundation for your ramen noodles.
Using low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of your dish, ensuring that it remains balanced and flavorful. The addition of miso paste not only enhances the umami notes but also contributes to the overall richness of the soup. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting a delicious and comforting meal that you'll crave time and again.
Cooking with Convenience
The beauty of this slow cooker recipe lies in its simplicity and convenience. Just layer your ingredients in the slow cooker, set the timer, and let it do all the work for you. This is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you still want a hearty meal without the fuss of standing over the stove.
Slow cooking allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, practically falling apart at the touch of a fork. This method not only enhances the flavor but also makes meal prep easier, as you can prepare a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Plus, the enticing aroma that fills your home will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
Customizable and Fun Toppings
One of the best aspects of ramen-inspired soup is the endless possibilities for customization. Once your soup is ready, you can personalize each bowl with a variety of toppings. Whether you prefer soft-boiled eggs for creaminess, sliced mushrooms for added texture, or nori sheets for a touch of oceanic flavor, the choice is yours.
Adding fresh green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds bursts of flavor and crunch. This flexibility not only makes your meal more exciting but also allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a great dish for family gatherings or dinner parties.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 ounces ramen noodles
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach
Optional Toppings
- Soft-boiled eggs
- Sliced mushrooms
- Nori sheets
- Sesame seeds
Gather all the ingredients and you're ready to start!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add garlic, ginger, soy sauce, miso paste, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender.
Prepare the Ramen
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add the Noodles and Spinach
Stir in the ramen noodles and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add spinach just before serving.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with your choice of toppings!
Enjoy your deliciously soothing ramen-inspired soup!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking. You can also add vegetables like bok choy or carrots for added nutrition.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the soup even tastier the next day. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. This way, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen-inspired soup whenever the craving strikes.
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the soup's consistency, as the noodles may absorb some of the liquid. Heat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, ensuring that it stays delicious and satisfying.
Nutritional Benefits
This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken thighs provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The addition of spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin K, contributing to overall health.
By using low-sodium broth and fresh ingredients, you can create a wholesome meal that is lower in preservatives and additives compared to store-bought soups. This recipe is not just about comfort; it’s also about nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients that support your well-being.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs tend to be juicier and more tender after slow cooking.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
→ What if I can't find miso paste?
You can substitute with additional soy sauce or omit it altogether.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen-inspired soup with minimal effort. This slow cooker recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
Created by: Eleanor Briggs
Recipe Type: Warm & Wholesome
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 ounces ramen noodles
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach
Optional Toppings
- Soft-boiled eggs
- Sliced mushrooms
- Nori sheets
- Sesame seeds
How-To Steps
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add garlic, ginger, soy sauce, miso paste, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Stir in the ramen noodles and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add spinach just before serving.
Serve hot with your choice of toppings!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking. You can also add vegetables like bok choy or carrots for added nutrition.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g