1teaspoondried Italian seasoning(or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme and rosemary)
1/2teaspoonpaprika
1small bay leaf
4cupschicken stock
3-4cupswater
salt and pepper to taste
8ounceswide egg noodlesabout 4 cups
2-3cupsbaby kale leaves
1tablespoonfreshly squeezed lemon juice
Chopped fresh parsley or dillfor garnish, optional
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Instructions
In the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, add 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper. Top with 1 medium onion, 3 medium carrots, 3 ribs celery, 3 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and an optional 1 small bay leaf.
Pour in the 4 cups chicken stock and 3-4 cups water, cover, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
During the last 15-30 minutes of cooking, remove the chicken breasts and shred in a bowl. Return the chicken to the slow cooker, discard the bay leaf, and stir in the noodles and baby kale.
When the noodles are al-dente, stir in the lemon juice—taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
Add the noodles at the end: Stir in the noodles during the final cooking stage so they stay tender and don’t become overly soft.
Season after cooking: Broth strength can vary, so taste and adjust salt and pepper just before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing tip: This soup freezes best without the noodles. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating for the best texture.
Chicken options: Boneless chicken breasts or thighs both work well; thighs will be slightly richer and more forgiving if cooked longer.