Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This easy slow cooker ramen-inspired soup is perfect for busy days. Simply set it up and let the flavors meld together for a comforting bowl of goodness.
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup combines the rich flavors of traditional ramen with the convenience of a slow cooker. It's a meal the whole family will love!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory broth that warms you from the inside out
- Tender chicken that practically falls apart
- Customizable with your favorite ramen toppings
A Comforting Bowl of Flavor
This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup is more than just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a chilly day. The combination of tender chicken, rich broth, and fresh vegetables creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to please the whole family. With minimal effort required, you can enjoy a gourmet-quality dish right at home.
What makes this soup truly special is the depth of flavor achieved through slow cooking. As the ingredients simmer together, the savory notes of soy sauce and miso meld beautifully, resulting in a broth that is both rich and comforting. Each spoonful brings a sense of warmth, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Customizing Your Ramen Experience
One of the best aspects of this ramen-inspired soup is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, the base broth can be adapted. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth as a base.
Additionally, the toppings you choose can elevate your soup to new heights. Soft-boiled eggs add creaminess, while nori sheets introduce a delightful umami flavor. Sesame seeds provide a satisfying crunch, and you can even throw in some chili flakes for a spicy kick. The options are endless, allowing you to create a unique bowl every time.
Effortless Meal Prep
With today's fast-paced lifestyle, meal prep can often feel overwhelming. This slow cooker chicken ramen-inspired soup offers a practical solution. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a hearty and delicious meal ready to serve. It’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine.
Not only does this dish save time, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more enjoyable the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your soup:
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 4 packages of ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: soft-boiled eggs, nori, sesame seeds
Make sure to have these on hand for a delicious meal!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your soup:
Prepare the Base
In your slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, soy sauce, miso paste, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours.
Add the Vegetables
After 6 hours, add the bok choy and mushrooms. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Prepare Ramen Noodles
In a separate pot, cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serve the Soup
Once all ingredients are cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Serve the soup over the cooked ramen noodles, garnished with green onions and any optional toppings.
Enjoy your delicious soup!
Tips for the Perfect Soup
For the best flavor, choose high-quality chicken broth. Homemade broth is ideal, but if you're short on time, a low-sodium store-bought version works well too. This allows you to control the saltiness of your soup, ensuring a balanced taste.
Don’t skip out on the miso paste! It adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall experience. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas can be great additions, offering both nutrition and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
To store your leftover soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it in portions. This way, you can enjoy a warm bowl of ramen-inspired soup anytime you crave comfort food.
When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stove over medium heat for even warming. If you're using a microwave, stir the soup halfway through heating to ensure all ingredients are heated evenly. Just remember to add fresh toppings after reheating for that just-made taste!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs are more tender and flavorful. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.
→ Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave out the ramen noodles and add them fresh when reheating.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Ramen-Inspired Soup
This easy slow cooker ramen-inspired soup is perfect for busy days. Simply set it up and let the flavors meld together for a comforting bowl of goodness.
Created by: Eden Clarke
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 cups bok choy, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 4 packages of ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: soft-boiled eggs, nori, sesame seeds
How-To Steps
In your slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, water, soy sauce, miso paste, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours.
After 6 hours, add the bok choy and mushrooms. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
In a separate pot, cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Once all ingredients are cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Serve the soup over the cooked ramen noodles, garnished with green onions and any optional toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g