Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the comforting flavors of ramen with minimal effort in this slow cooker chicken soup. Perfect for busy days!
This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Simply set it and forget it, and let the flavors meld together beautifully while you go about your day.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory broth that warms the soul
- Tender chicken that shreds effortlessly
- Customizable with your favorite ramen toppings
A Comforting Bowl of Goodness
There's something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s filled with the rich, aromatic flavors reminiscent of traditional ramen. This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup offers a delightful fusion of convenience and taste. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a broth that is both savory and satisfying. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply need a hearty meal, this soup is sure to please.
The use of boneless, skinless chicken thighs not only simplifies preparation but also ensures that the meat remains tender and flavorful. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs the essence of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, creating a delicious base for your ramen-inspired dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to set it up in the morning and return home to a deliciously fragrant meal.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of this chicken ramen-inspired soup is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you love spicy food, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a splash of sriracha. For a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, while maintaining the same delightful flavors.
The topping options are endless! Feel free to include soft-boiled eggs, nori strips, or your favorite vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. This flexibility not only makes the soup a crowd-pleaser but also allows you to get creative in the kitchen. Each bowl can be a unique masterpiece, reflecting your culinary style and preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This slow cooker chicken ramen soup is an excellent choice for meal prep, making it easy to have nutritious meals on hand throughout the week. Once cooked, the soup can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch each time.
You can also freeze portions of the soup for longer storage. Just make sure to separate the ramen noodles from the broth and vegetables before freezing, as they can become mushy upon thawing. When you're ready to enjoy your frozen soup, defrost and reheat, then add freshly cooked ramen noodles for the best texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for a delicious bowl of soup:
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cups bok choy, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 4 servings of ramen noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add your favorite toppings to personalize your soup!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your ramen-inspired soup:
Prepare the Ingredients
In your slow cooker, place the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, 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 and easily shredded.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add Vegetables
Add the bok choy and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Prepare the Ramen Noodles
Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serve the Soup
In bowls, place a serving of cooked ramen noodles, ladle the soup over the noodles, and top with sliced green onions. Enjoy!
Feel free to experiment with your favorite ramen toppings!
Nutritional Benefits
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. Additionally, the inclusion of bok choy and mushrooms adds a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as important antioxidants.
The ginger and garlic not only enhance the flavor profile of the soup but also offer additional health benefits. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while garlic can boost your immune system. Together, these ingredients create a hearty meal that supports your well-being.
Cooking Tips
To ensure the best flavor, be sure to use high-quality chicken broth. Homemade broth is ideal, but if you’re short on time, opt for a low-sodium store-bought version to control the saltiness of the soup. Additionally, adjusting the seasoning towards the end of cooking allows for a fresher taste, especially if you add more soy sauce or sesame oil.
Don't hesitate to experiment with different vegetables! Adding seasonal produce can enhance the soup's flavor and nutrition. For instance, carrots, snap peas, or spinach make excellent additions, providing color and crunch that complement the tender chicken and soft noodles beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Served best with a variety of toppings, this soup can be customized to satisfy any palate. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick. For a more filling meal, serve with a side of steamed rice or crispy spring rolls to complete the experience.
Pairing this comforting soup with a refreshing side salad can also balance the meal. A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil can add a light, crisp element that complements the rich flavors of the soup, making it a well-rounded dining option.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may become drier than thighs during cooking.
→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Some great toppings include boiled eggs, sliced jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Experience the comforting flavors of ramen with minimal effort in this slow cooker chicken soup. Perfect for busy days!
Created by: Amber Walsh
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cups bok choy, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 4 servings of ramen noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In your slow cooker, place the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Add the bok choy and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In bowls, place a serving of cooked ramen noodles, ladle the soup over the noodles, and top with sliced green onions. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g