Made this soup the other day in my crock pot. Really simple.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients:

Start by prepping your vegetables. Dice the onion, chop the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. If you’re adding optional ingredients like corn or potatoes, get those ready too.

For the chicken, you can either use boneless skinless chicken breasts for easier shredding or bone-in chicken for more flavor (just remember to remove the bones before serving).

2. Add Everything to the Crock Pot:

Once your ingredients are prepped, throw everything into your crock pot. Start by adding the chicken, then layer in the carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, garlic, and beans. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. If you’re adding any extra veggies (like corn or potatoes), now’s the time to toss them in as well.

3. Set It and Forget It:

Cover the crock pot and set it to cook. If you have time, let it cook on low for 6-8 hours, which will give the flavors time to meld and the chicken to become wonderfully tender. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for 3-4 hours.

4. Shred the Chicken:

Once the soup is ready, use a pair of tongs or a fork to remove the chicken from the pot. Shred the chicken on a cutting board or plate, and then return it to the soup. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.

5. Taste and Adjust:

Before serving, taste your soup. Adjust the seasonings if needed—sometimes a little extra salt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can make all the difference.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. It’s perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread or crackers. If you’re looking to elevate it a bit, a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream can add some extra richness.

Why This Recipe Works:

1. Minimal Prep Time: All you need to do is chop up a few vegetables and toss everything in the crock pot. There’s no need for complicated techniques or constant stirring. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal.
2. Flexible Ingredients: This recipe is very adaptable. Feel free to swap the chicken for another protein like ground turkey, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers or seasonal produce.
3. Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and beans, fiber from the vegetables, and vitamins from the broth, this soup is not only comforting but also nourishing and filling.
4. A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re making dinner for your family or prepping a meal for a group, this crock pot soup recipe is perfect. It’s easy to scale up, and it’s likely to be a hit with everyone.

Variations to Try:

• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the spices. You can also throw in a splash of hot sauce at the end for an extra zing.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, stir in some heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving, or blend a portion of the soup to make it thicker and creamier.
• Italian Twist: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and some chopped spinach or kale for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Southwestern Flavor: Add some chili powder, cumin, and a can of diced green chilies for a southwestern spin. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.

Final Thoughts:

This easy crock pot soup is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s comforting, simple, and customizable—perfect for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or whenever you need something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you’ll love the fact that your crock pot is doing most of the work for you!

So, the next time you’re looking for an effortless yet delicious meal, give this recipe a try. It might just become your new favorite go-to soup!