Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This comforting slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, perfect for busy days.
This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is a delightful twist on a classic dish. With the ease of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a flavorful, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's perfect for a cozy night in or serving to guests.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich broth infused with umami flavors
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Customizable toppings for a personal touch
A Bowl of Comfort
There's something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it combines the beloved flavors of ramen with the ease of a slow cooker. This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is designed for those hectic days when you crave comfort but don’t have the time to spend in the kitchen. The slow cooking process melds the deep, savory flavors of the broth while keeping the chicken tender and juicy, making every spoonful a delight.
What sets this recipe apart is its ability to deliver rich umami flavors without the fuss. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite ramen shop. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing you to come home to a fragrant, warm meal waiting to be enjoyed. It's a perfect solution for busy families or anyone looking to simplify their dinner routine.
Flavorful Ingredients
The key to this soup's success lies in its flavorful ingredients. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the ideal choice for this recipe; they become incredibly tender during the slow cooking process, making it easy to shred them into the broth. Combined with a rich chicken broth and a splash of soy sauce and miso paste, the flavor profile is elevated, delivering that authentic ramen taste right at home.
Mushrooms and green onions add depth and freshness to the soup, while garlic and ginger powders provide a warm, aromatic foundation. This combination creates a beautifully balanced broth that is both comforting and satisfying. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can easily adjust them to suit your taste or dietary preferences, making this soup a versatile option for any night of the week.
Customizable Toppings
One of the best aspects of ramen-inspired dishes is the ability to customize your bowl according to your preferences. This soup is no exception! Once you've prepared the base, you can get creative with toppings. Soft-boiled eggs, for instance, lend a rich creaminess that complements the broth beautifully. They also add a lovely visual appeal, making your meal feel more gourmet.
In addition to eggs, consider adding crunchy nori sheets for texture, a sprinkle of sesame seeds for nuttiness, or extra green onions for a fresh finish. You could even throw in some bok choy or sliced radishes for added crunch and nutrition. This flexibility allows you to make each bowl uniquely your own, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a personalized dining experience.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Cooked ramen noodles
- Additional green onions
- Soft-boiled eggs
- Nori sheets
- Sesame seeds
Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add Broth and Seasoning
Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the mushrooms, green onions, soy sauce, miso paste, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the soup.
Serve
Serve the soup over cooked ramen noodles and top with additional green onions, soft-boiled eggs, nori sheets, and sesame seeds as desired.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting soup!
Tips for Success
For the best results, choose high-quality chicken broth as it will significantly impact the flavor of the soup. If you have homemade broth, even better! Additionally, don’t skip the miso paste; it adds depth and complexity that is integral to achieving that authentic ramen taste.
If you find yourself short on time, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply place everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. This makes for a hassle-free dinner option that you can look forward to after a busy day.
Storing Leftovers
This soup is perfect for meal prep and storing leftovers. If you have any soup remaining after your meal, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, simply add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, as the noodles may absorb some of the liquid during storage.
Keep in mind that the texture of the ramen noodles may change after freezing, so if you're planning to freeze the soup, consider storing the noodles separately. This way, you can cook them fresh when you're ready to enjoy the soup again, ensuring the best texture and flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
To round out your meal, consider serving this ramen-inspired soup with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad. The freshness of vegetables pairs well with the rich broth and will enhance the overall dining experience. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or homemade dumplings for a more filling meal.
For a beverage pairing, a light, fruity sake or a refreshing green tea can complement the flavors beautifully. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, sparkling water with a slice of lemon can add a nice touch of brightness to your meal. Enjoying this soup with thoughtful pairings will elevate your dining experience even further.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer.
→ Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
This comforting slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, perfect for busy days.
Created by: Lacey Montgomery
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Cooked ramen noodles
- Additional green onions
- Soft-boiled eggs
- 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 the mushrooms, green onions, soy sauce, miso paste, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the soup.
Serve the soup over cooked ramen noodles and top with additional green onions, soft-boiled eggs, nori sheets, and sesame seeds as desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g