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Slow Cooker Chicken Soup

This chicken soup is crafted through a slow, gentle process that extracts deep flavor from simple ingredients like chicken thighs, vegetables, and herbs. The result is a tender, shreddable chicken submerged in a clear, aromatic broth with a faint smoky depth, finished with a bright splash of lemon juice for vibrancy.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs (skin-on or skinless) preferably bone-in for flavor
  • 2 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 bay leaves bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon thyme dried or fresh
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Slow cooker
  • Ladle
  • Forks
  • Chef’s knife

Method
 

  1. Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. When shimmering, add the chicken thighs and cook for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and fragrant, creating a rich aroma and crispy surface. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the slow cooker, add the chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion. These vegetables form the flavorful base of the soup.
  3. Place the browned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables, then add the minced garlic, bay leaves, and thyme for aromatic depth.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth until the ingredients are just covered, ensuring everything is submerged for even cooking. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
  5. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender and shreddable.
  6. About an hour before serving, use tongs or forks to remove the chicken, then shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the broth, stirring gently.
  7. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and add a zesty finish.
  8. Give the soup a final stir, ensuring the shredded chicken, vegetables, and broth are evenly combined. It should be clear, fragrant, and bubbling gently.
  9. Serve the soup hot, with a slice of crusty bread if desired, and enjoy the comforting aroma and tender textures of this slow-cooked chicken soup.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can sear the chicken longer or add a splash of vinegar to balance the broth’s richness. Make sure to skim excess fat if the broth looks greasy after cooking.