After a busy day filled with meetings and errands, nothing feels quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. Imagine the delightful aroma of savory chicken mingling with fresh vegetables and herbs, filling your kitchen as you unwind. That’s precisely the experience you get with my Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup.
This recipe marries the richness of tender chicken, the nutty flavor of quinoa, and the vibrant textures of vegetables—all simmering together to create a nourishing meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day. It’s my go-to for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends, delivering wholesome goodness without any fuss. Plus, with a mere 15 minutes of prep, you can cross “dinner” off your list and spend more time with loved ones.
Let’s dive into this recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious—perfect for anyone tired of fast food and hungry for something homemade!
Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the hard work.
- The combination of tender chicken and nutty quinoa creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
- Not only is it versatile, but you can easily customize the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.
- Visually, the vibrant colors of the vegetables make this soup as inviting to the eye as it is to the palate, making it a stunning addition to any dinner table.
Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup Ingredients
To create this comforting soup, gather these simple ingredients!
For the Soup Base
- Boneless chicken breasts – a tender protein that breaks down beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Quinoa – this nutty grain packs a punch of protein and fiber while absorbing all that delicious broth.
- Chicken broth – the key to a rich, flavorful foundation for your slow cooker chicken & quinoa soup.
- Diced tomatoes – they add a lovely acidity and sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
For the Veggies
- Carrots – bring natural sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
- Celery – adds crunch and depth of flavor, making your soup hearty and satisfying.
- Onion – a must for aroma, it becomes sweet and caramelized as it cooks.
- Garlic – infuses the soup with a warm, rich flavor that elevates the entire dish.
For the Seasoning
- Dried thyme – offers an earthy note that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Dried oregano – enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle herbaceous quality.
- Salt and pepper – essential for bringing all the flavors together; adjust to your taste.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup
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Layer Chicken: Place the boneless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This tender protein will soak up all the flavors during cooking.
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Add Ingredients: Toss in the rinsed quinoa, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the ingredients mingle for a fantastic taste experience!
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Stir Together: Gently stir the mixture until everything is well combined. This step ensures that the quinoa absorbs the broth and flavors evenly.
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Cover & Cook: Cover the slow cooker, then set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Enjoy the beautiful aromas wafting through your home as it cooks!
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Shred Chicken: Once cooked, carefully shred the chicken using two forks right in the cooker. This allows the chicken to blend seamlessly with the soup.
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Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the warm soup into bowls. Serve hot, and watch your loved ones smile as they savor each comforting spoonful of this delightful soup!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. Add extra broth if needed for consistency.
Quick Tip: This comforting slow cooker chicken & quinoa soup makes a fantastic meal prep option, perfect for busy weeknights!
Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup Variations
Feel free to make this comforting soup your own with a few simple tweaks and additions!
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Vegetable-Loaded: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a colorful and nutritious boost. These veggies bring layers of flavor and freshness!
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Spicy Kick: Toss in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to elevate the heat and brighten each spoonful. Just adjust according to your personal heat tolerance!
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Herb Swaps: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil instead of dried thyme and oregano for a fragrant and vibrant twist. Fresh herbs offer a lovely burst of flavor!
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Lentil Option: Substitute half of the quinoa with green or brown lentils for added protein and a slightly different texture. Lentils will cook beautifully alongside the chicken!
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Creamy Variation: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or Greek yogurt before serving to create a rich and velvety soup. This adds a delightful creaminess that’s simply irresistible!
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Coconut Curry: Switch out the chicken broth for coconut milk and add curry powder for a deliciously exotic take on your chicken and quinoa soup. Serve it with a dash of lime for a fresh finish!
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Healthy Grain Swap: For a gluten-free option, replace quinoa with brown rice or farro, creating an entirely new flavor profile while still delivering heartiness.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving for an uplifting and refreshing zing. The citrus brightness enhances the overall flavor of the soup beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep, perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (carrots, celery, onion, and garlic) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can season the chicken and combine it with quinoa and broth, storing this mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This ensures you enjoy a flavorful, comforting soup just as delicious, even with the prep done ahead!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup?
A cozy soup deserves delightful accompaniments to complement its heartwarming flavors, creating the perfect meal experience.
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Warm Bread Rolls: Their soft texture and slight crunch provide the ideal contrast, allowing you to soak up every delicious spoonful. Nothing feels cozier than sharing warm bread with your loved ones.
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Garden Salad: A fresh medley of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds a crisp contrast, refreshing your palate. Toss in a bright vinaigrette to elevate the meal’s vibrancy!
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like carrots and zucchini bring out natural sweetness and earthiness, enhancing the soup’s flavors beautifully. Their tender texture and smoky notes make each bite a joy.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice tossed with parsley and lemon zest provides a zesty side to balance the hearty soup. It’s a wonderful way to add extra flavor and a satisfying element.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: Golden, buttery bread topped with melted cheese and garlic is comfort food at its finest. Perfect for dipping, it makes for an indulgent treat alongside your soup.
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Crisp Sparkling Water: A bubbly palate cleanser enhances the meal without overpowering the flavors of the soup. Infuse it with lime or lemon for a refreshing touch!
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Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, fudgy brownies offer a rich, sweet finish. Their decadent texture pairs perfectly after a warm, savory soup experience.
These pairings will turn your comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup into a complete meal that’s sure to be loved by all!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup, make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker to remove any bitterness.
- To avoid overcooked chicken, check the doneness at the lower end of the cooking range and shred it once it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- When stirring in the ingredients, try to distribute the seasonings evenly for a balanced flavor throughout the soup.
- Keep in mind that the soup will thicken as it cools, so for a creamier texture, feel free to add additional broth before serving if desired.
Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for this soup?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables, look for brightly colored carrots and celery without dark spots or wilting, ensuring they’re fresh and crisp. For the onion, a firm bulb with no soft spots is best. When it comes to tomatoes, choose those that are plump and free of blemishes for the best flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover soup?
Very! To store your Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it to avoid trapping heat and condensation.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup?
Definitely! To freeze, ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy it later, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
What if my chicken turns out dry when I make this soup?
To avoid dry chicken, ensure you check the doneness by using a meat thermometer. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, shred it—it will retain moisture and flavor better this way. If it feels overcooked, it might be due to cooking on high for too long, so stick to the lower end of the cooking time range.
Is this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions or allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite adaptable. If you have gluten sensitivities, quinoa is a gluten-free grain, making it a great choice. However, if you’re allergic to chicken, consider substituting with a different protein like turkey or plant-based options. Always double-check ingredient labels for any specific allergies!
How can I enhance the flavor of my Slow Cooker Chicken & Quinoa Soup?
I often recommend adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a vibrant touch. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors nicely. If you enjoy spice, consider throwing in a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 lbs Boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Quinoa rinsed
- 6 cups Chicken broth
- 1 can Diced tomatoes
Veggies
- 2 cups Carrots diced
- 2 stalks Celery diced
- 1 large Onion chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon Pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Toss in the rinsed quinoa, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Gently stir the mixture until everything is well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker, then set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, carefully shred the chicken using two forks right in the cooker.
- Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve hot.
