There’s just something so comforting about coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of a slow cooker meal, isn’t there? After a busy day, knowing that a hearty dish is waiting for you makes everything better. My Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup is one of my absolute favorites for those hectic days when time is of the essence but I still want something nutritious and filling. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and loads of flavor! I remember the first time I made this soup—I was juggling work, errands, and a million other things. I just threw everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, my kitchen smelled heavenly! Plus, it’s one of those recipes that’s so easy to customize, which means you can make it your own every time. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup
To whip up this delicious soup, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. I love that everything comes together so easily, and there’s no fussing over complicated preparations. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts: You can use fresh or thawed frozen chicken. Just make sure they’re trimmed for the best texture!
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed: Rinsing the quinoa helps remove any bitterness, giving the soup a lovely nutty flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Homemade is great if you have it, but store-bought works perfectly too. Just choose low-sodium if you can!
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained: This adds a nice acidity that balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup carrots, diced: Fresh is best, but pre-cut works in a pinch. They bring sweetness and color!
- 1 cup celery, diced: This gives a lovely crunch and depth of flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped: I love using yellow or white onions for their sweetness when cooked.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must for that aromatic kick—trust me on this one!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb adds a lovely earthiness to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic pairing with chicken, it brings all those comforting flavors together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always adjust to your liking, of course!
That’s it! Simple, isn’t it? Each ingredient plays a role in creating a hearty and nutritious bowl of comfort. You’ll love how they all meld together while cooking!
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup
Getting this Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup ready is a breeze! I love how easy it is—just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do its magic. Here’s how to bring this delicious dish to life:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start with the chicken: Place your boneless chicken breasts right at the bottom of the slow cooker. This way, they get all the delicious juices flowing over them as it cooks.
- Add the quinoa: Rinse your quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. This little step helps eliminate any bitterness. Then, sprinkle it over the chicken.
- Pour in the broth: Now, add that lovely chicken broth. It’s the base of our soup and really brings everything together. If you’re using store-bought, go for low-sodium to control the salt levels.
- Add the veggies: Toss in the undrained diced tomatoes, diced carrots, celery, and chopped onion. The colors alone will make your kitchen feel vibrant and cozy!
- Spice it up: Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and oregano. These herbs will make your soup sing with flavor. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste!
- Mix it all together: Give everything a good stir to combine. You want all those flavors to mingle and create a beautiful harmony.
- Cover and cook: Now, here comes the waiting game! Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. I usually go for low because it allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
- Shred the chicken: When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. It’s so tender it’ll practically fall apart! Mix the shredded chicken back into the soup.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle that comforting soup into bowls while it’s hot. You can even garnish with some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if you like a little zing!
And that’s it! How simple was that? I love how effortless it is to prepare, making it the perfect choice for busy days. You’ll be amazed at how hearty and fulfilling this soup is—your family will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, there are so many reasons to fall in love with my Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup! It’s not just about filling your belly; it’s about all the wonderful benefits that come with it. Here are some of my favorite reasons why this recipe is a must-try:
- Flavor-packed: The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and fresh veggies creates a comforting, delicious flavor profile that warms you from the inside out.
- Nutritious: With quinoa as a star ingredient, you’re not only getting protein but also fiber and essential nutrients. It’s a hearty meal that keeps you feeling satisfied without the heaviness.
- Convenience: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work! It’s perfect for busy days when you need a nutritious meal without the hassle of constant monitoring.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. Love spinach? Toss it in! Prefer a little kick? A dash of hot sauce will do wonders.
- Make-ahead friendly: This soup is great for meal prep! Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze it for those days when cooking feels like too much.
- Family-friendly: Kids love it, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without a fuss. Everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl together!
Trust me, once you experience the delightful flavors and ease of this soup, it’ll be on repeat in your kitchen. What’s not to love?
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my best tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup turns out absolutely perfect every time. These little gems of advice can make a big difference in flavor and texture!
- Don’t skip the rinsing: Remember to rinse your quinoa! This step is crucial to remove any bitterness, and it’s super easy to do. Just give it a good rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Use high-quality broth: The broth is the backbone of the soup, so choose a good-quality chicken broth. If you can, homemade is the best option, but low-sodium store-bought works perfectly too!
- Cut veggies evenly: For even cooking, make sure your veggies are cut into similar-sized pieces. This way, everything cooks at the same rate, and you won’t end up with mushy carrots and crunchy celery.
- Adjust seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasonings as it cooks! Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- Layering matters: When adding ingredients to your slow cooker, layer them so that the chicken is at the bottom. This allows it to soak up all those delicious flavors while cooking.
- Keep the lid on: Resist the urge to lift the lid while it’s cooking! Each time you open it, you let heat escape, which can extend cooking time. Trust the process and let it simmer away!
- Shred while hot: When it’s time to shred the chicken, do it while it’s still hot. It makes shredding so much easier—just use two forks and pull it apart. You’ll be amazed at how tender it is!
- Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to keep that freshness intact!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a delicious bowl of soup that your family will love. Happy cooking!
Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup
One of the best things about my Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving. Here are some fun variations to inspire your next batch:
- Veggie-loaded: Want to sneak in more veggies? Add in some chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini! Just toss them in during the last hour of cooking so they stay bright and tender.
- Spicy kick: If you love a little heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can also try a splash of hot sauce just before serving for an extra zing!
- Herbaceous twist: Experiment with fresh herbs instead of dried. Toss in some fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil right before serving for a burst of freshness. It’ll elevate the flavor profile beautifully!
- Southwestern flair: For a southwestern spin, add black beans, corn, and a teaspoon of cumin. You could even swap the chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. Yum!
- Asian-inspired: Try adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for an Asian twist. You might want to replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and include some bok choy or mushrooms for depth.
- Creamy version: For a richer soup, stir in a bit of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving. This adds a velvety texture that’s absolutely delightful!
- Different grains: Not a quinoa fan? No problem! Substitute with brown rice, farro, or even barley. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different grains.
These variations allow you to customize the soup to your liking, making it perfect for any occasion. Have fun experimenting, and remember, the best part is making it your own!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of the Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup can help you enjoy it even more! Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 22g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling great. Enjoy every wholesome spoonful!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing and reheating your Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup is super simple, and I’ve got you covered with all the details to keep that deliciousness intact!
First off, if you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. I usually keep mine in the fridge for up to 5 days, and it holds up beautifully! Just make sure to seal it tightly to keep all those flavors fresh.
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, this soup freezes wonderfully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or even zip-top bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It’ll be good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, when it comes to reheating, there are a couple of options. You can simply pop it in the microwave for a quick heat-up—just make sure to stir it halfway through for even warming. If you prefer stovetop, pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium until it’s warmed through, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if it seems a bit thick after freezing.
And voilà! You’re ready to enjoy that comforting bowl of soup again. Trust me, it tastes just as good the second time around! So go ahead and savor every last drop of your delicious creation.
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can throw frozen chicken breasts straight into the slow cooker without thawing them first. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time a bit. They may need an extra hour or so on low to ensure they’re cooked through.
What if I don’t have quinoa?
No worries! You can swap out quinoa for other grains like brown rice or barley. Just keep in mind that different grains will require different cooking times, so you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I add beans to the soup?
Yes! Adding beans like black beans or chickpeas is a great way to boost protein and fiber. Just make sure they’re canned and drained, and toss them in during the last hour of cooking to heat through without getting mushy.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! My Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup is naturally gluten-free thanks to quinoa, which is a fantastic gluten-free grain. Just double-check your broth and any canned ingredients to ensure they’re also gluten-free.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you’re looking for a little kick, you can add diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce just before serving. Spice it up to your heart’s content!
Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup: 7 Comforting Secrets
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and nutritious slow cooker chicken and quinoa soup.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add quinoa, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the ingredients to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the chicken with two forks before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- You can add other vegetables of your choice.
- This soup freezes well for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup