The Perfect reames chicken noodle soup recipe crock pot

Let's be honest, sometimes you just need a big bowl of comfort. Life throws curveballs, the weather turns sour, or maybe you just had *that* kind of day. Chicken noodle soup is the classic answer, but standing over a stove, stirring and fussing? Not exactly the low-stress solution you're probably craving. That's where your trusty crock pot comes in. And if you're looking for that hearty, homemade noodle texture without the flour-dusted mess, Reames frozen egg noodles are the secret weapon. Forget the flimsy dried stuff that turns to mush. This article walks you through a straightforward reames chicken noodle soup recipe crock pot style. We'll cover why Reames are the way to go, what you'll need, the simple steps to get it cooking, and a few tricks to make it your own. So, dust off that slow cooker; dinner just got a whole lot easier and a lot more comforting.

Why Reames Noodles for Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup?

They Don't Turn to Mush

Look, we've all been there. You make a big batch of chicken noodle soup in the crock pot, excited for that comforting bowl, only to find the noodles have disintegrated into a starchy, sad goo. Dried pasta, while convenient for stovetop cooking, often can't handle the long, slow simmer of a crock pot without losing its structural integrity. Reames frozen egg noodles, however, are built differently. Their thicker, heartier texture stands up to hours in the slow cooker, maintaining a satisfying chew that's crucial for good chicken noodle soup.

Convenience Without Compromise

Making homemade egg noodles is a labor of love, no doubt. Flour everywhere, rolling, cutting – it's a project. Most of us don't have that kind of time on a Tuesday night when we just want dinner waiting. Dried noodles are easy, sure, but as mentioned, they often fail the crock pot test. Reames offers the best of both worlds: minimal effort from you (just toss them in!) and a result that mimics the substantial, comforting feel of homemade noodles. It’s a shortcut that doesn't feel like one.

So why are Reames a solid choice for your slow cooker soup? Consider this:

• They maintain their shape and texture over long cooking times.
• They offer a thickness and chewiness that dried noodles lack.
• They save you the significant effort of making noodles from scratch.
• They absorb flavor from the broth without falling apart.

That Perfect Comfort Texture

The texture of the noodles is arguably as important as the broth or the chicken in chicken noodle soup. You want something substantial to bite into, something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Reames delivers on that. Their density and composition mean they don't become slick or slimy. They remain distinct strands, providing that essential textural contrast to the tender chicken and soft vegetables. It's the kind of noodle that makes you feel like someone actually put in the effort, even if your crock pot did most of the work.

Ingredients You Need for Reames Crock Pot Soup

The Star: Your Chicken

first things first, you need chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for a reason – they shred easily and aren't greasy. But don't shy away from boneless, skinless thighs either. They stay incredibly moist over the long cook time and add a little more richness to the broth. Aim for about 1.5 to 2 pounds. That gives you plenty of chicken without overwhelming the soup. You'll toss the raw chicken right into the crock pot; no need to pre-cook it. The slow cooker handles the rest, making it fall-apart tender by the time you're ready to add the noodles.

The Flavor Foundation: Veggies and Aromatics

Every good soup starts with a solid base. For chicken noodle, that means onion, carrots, and celery. Chop them up into roughly equal, bite-sized pieces. Don't go too small, or they might disappear into the soup; think about what you want on your spoon. You'll also need some garlic. Minced is fine, or if you're feeling fancy, give it a quick smash and chop. These three, plus the garlic, are non-negotiable for that classic, comforting flavor profile. It’s the simple stuff that makes a big difference.

Here's a quick rundown of the essential flavor builders:

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3-4 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3-4 celery stalks, chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh thyme (or dried)
• Salt and black pepper

Liquid Gold and Seasoning Magic

You need liquid, obviously. Chicken broth is your best friend here. Use low-sodium if you're watching salt intake, as you can always add more later. You'll need a decent amount to cover everything and create that soup base – figure around 6-8 cups. Some recipes call for a splash of water, but honestly, stick to broth for maximum flavor. Don't forget the seasonings. Thyme is classic and earthy; a few sprigs or a teaspoon of dried will do. Salt and black pepper are mandatory, of course. And maybe a bay leaf if you're feeling traditional. A little flour or cornstarch mixed with some broth at the end can help thicken the soup slightly, but that's optional depending on your preference.

Making Your Reames Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe in the Crock Pot

Getting Everything into the Pot

Alright, time to get this soup party started in your slow cooker. This is where the magic of the crock pot really shines – it's mostly a dump-and-go situation. First, toss your raw chicken breasts or thighs right into the bottom of the pot. Layer the chopped onion, carrots, and celery over the chicken. Add your minced garlic and any herbs you're using, like fresh thyme sprigs or a bay leaf. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything generously. You want plenty of liquid because those Reames noodles are thirsty. Give it a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Don't be shy, but remember you can always adjust seasoning later. Seriously, that's it for the initial setup. Lid on, and you're ready for the low-and-slow cook.

The Waiting Game and Adding the Noodles

Now comes the easy part: waiting. Set your crock pot to low. Let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours. This gives the chicken plenty of time to become incredibly tender and the vegetables to soften nicely, infusing the broth with all their flavor. If you're in more of a hurry, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours, but low and slow usually yields a more flavorful broth. About an hour before you plan to serve, take the chicken out. Shred it using two forks – it should practically fall apart. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Now for the star: add the frozen Reames egg noodles directly to the hot soup. Stir them in gently to make sure they're submerged. Pop the lid back on and let it cook for that final hour, or until the noodles are tender but still have a good chew. This is the critical step for your reames chicken noodle soup recipe crock pot success; adding them too early means mush.

So, when exactly should those Reames noodles hit the pool party?

• Set a timer for the last 60-75 minutes of total cook time.
• The soup should be hot and simmering when you add them.
• Stir them in gently to prevent sticking.
• Don't overcook them past the point of tender chewiness.

Tips and Variations for Your Reames Crock Pot Creation

Don't Stop at Carrots and Celery

Look, the classic trio of onion, carrots, and celery is the foundation, the holy trinity of chicken soup aromatics. But who says you have to stop there? Your crock pot is a forgiving vessel, ready to embrace more veggie friends. Want some earthy depth? Toss in a handful of sliced mushrooms during the last couple of hours. Craving something green and sweet? Frozen peas or corn kernels can join the party about 30 minutes before serving – any earlier and they lose their vibrant color and turn sad. Got a stray potato? Chop it up and add it at the beginning with the other root vegetables for a heartier stew-like consistency. It’s your soup; make it work for your vegetable drawer.

Craving Creaminess?

Sometimes, you want that comforting bowl to have a little more body, a touch of creamy richness that coats your spoon. You've got options here, depending on your commitment level. The absolute easiest way? Stir in a can of condensed cream of chicken soup during the last hour when you add the noodles. It’s a shortcut, sure, but it works. For a slightly fresher, less processed creaminess, whisk together a cup of milk or half-and-half with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch until smooth, then stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes. Let it simmer gently to thicken. Or, for ultimate decadence, drop in a few ounces of cream cheese cut into cubes about 30 minutes before serving and stir until melted and smooth. Just remember to add dairy *after* the long cook time to avoid curdling.

Consider these flavor boosters and tweaks for your next batch:

• Add a pinch of dried rosemary or sage with the thyme for an extra layer of herb flavor.
• Stir in a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley right before serving for brightness.
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end can cut through richness and lift all the flavors.
• For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes at the start.
• Swap some chicken broth for vegetable broth for a slightly different base flavor.

Storing and Reheating Your Reames Chicken Noodle Soup

Keeping Your Comfort Food Fresh

Alright, you’ve conquered the crock pot and made a glorious batch of reames chicken noodle soup recipe crock pot style. Now, unless you plan on eating the entire pot in one sitting (no judgment here), you need to think about storing those precious leftovers. Let the soup cool down completely before you even think about putting a lid on it and sticking it in the fridge. Trapping heat creates condensation, which nobody wants in their soup, and it can mess with food safety. Portion it out into airtight containers. Those Reames noodles hold up pretty well, but they will continue to absorb liquid as they sit, so expect the soup to thicken up in the fridge. It's good for about 3-4 days chilling in the cold box.

Your Comfort Bowl Awaits

So there you have it. A simple, satisfying way to get that classic comfort food on the table with minimal fuss. The crock pot does the heavy lifting, and Reames noodles provide that perfect chew without the extra work. Whether you're battling a cold, a dreary day, or just want something genuinely good and easy, this reames chicken noodle soup recipe crock pot version delivers. It’s a reliable go-to that proves comfort doesn't have to mean complicated. Ladle up a bowl, settle in, and let the warmth do its job.