Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is a comfort food classic that’s perfect for busy days and chilly evenings. This one-pot meal combines tender chicken, creamy soup, and soft egg noodles, all cooked together in a slow cooker. It’s simple to prepare and results in a dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, leaving your family eagerly waiting for dinner.
Why We Love This Crockpot Chicken and Noodles Recipe
There’s something truly special about the simplicity and heartiness of Crockpot Chicken and Noodles. This recipe not only brings comfort but also convenience; with minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. You’re left with a satisfying, warm dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a delicious meal prep for the week. Each bite of tender chicken and chewy noodles in creamy goodness makes you feel right at home.
Ingredients about Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
To prepare Crockpot Chicken and Noodles, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz each)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
- ¼ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ stick butter, sliced
- 3 ½ cups chicken broth
- 8 oz uncooked egg noodles
These ingredients work together to create a warm and comforting meal that is both satisfying and easy to make.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Noodles Directions
Making Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is easy and straightforward. Here’s how you can create this delicious dish:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Add the Soup: Open the two cans of cream of chicken soup and pour them over the chicken. The soup will serve as the foundation for the creamy sauce.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle dried parsley, seasoned salt, poultry seasoning, and garlic powder evenly across the top. These seasonings enhance the flavor of the dish and create depth.
- Top with Butter: Slice the half stick of butter and place the slices on top of the ingredient mix. This will add richness and creaminess to the final dish.
- Pour in the Chicken Broth: Carefully pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients. This liquid will help to cook the chicken and create a delicious broth for the noodles.
- Set the Temperature: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be thoroughly cooked and tender by the end of this period.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken right inside the crockpot using two forks. This will allow the chicken to soak up all the flavors from the broth and soup.
- Add the Noodles: Stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Make sure they are well combined with the shredded chicken and broth mixture.
- Cook the Noodles: Cover the crockpot again and cook for an additional 30 to 45 minutes on high, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: After the noodles are cooked, ladle the chicken and noodles into bowls. For a touch of color and flavor, garnish with a sprinkle of parsley if desired.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
Serving Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is just as easy as making it. You can dish it out into individual bowls or serve family-style from the crockpot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad, enhancing the meal without complicating the preparation. For an added touch, consider serving it alongside homemade biscuits or toast, allowing everyone to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s a warm meal that’s perfect for sharing and ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
To get the most out of your Crockpot Chicken and Noodles, consider these expert tips:
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. Tenders and juicy chicken will elevate your dish significantly.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of the seasonings based on your personal taste preferences. If you enjoy more garlic flavor, increase the garlic powder!
- Don’t Skip the Butter: Adding butter is key to creating that deliciously creamy texture. It contributes a richness that makes this dish comforting and satisfying.
- Monitor the Noodles: When adding the noodles, be sure to stir them occasionally. This will help prevent any sticking and ensure even cooking for a perfect texture.
- Customise the Broth: If you want more flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or a low-sodium option to control the salt content.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
Storing any leftovers? You can easily keep Crockpot Chicken and Noodles for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave or stovetop until heated through. Just be aware that the noodles may absorb some of the broth when stored; you can always add a splash of broth when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Variation of Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of variations to explore. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor. Simply add them in with the chicken and broth before cooking.
- Create a Cheesy Version: For a cheesy twist, stir in some shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack) just before serving for a melty addition that enhances the creamy texture.
- Use Different Noodles: If you want a heartier dish, consider using other types of noodles, such as wide egg noodles or even whole grain options.
- Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with Herbs: Swap out the parsley for fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
FAQ
What is the best way to make Crockpot Chicken and Noodles?
The best way to make Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is to layer the chicken, soup, and seasonings, followed by adding butter and broth, then cooking on low for several hours. This method ensures the chicken becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Chicken and Noodles?
Cooking Crockpot Chicken and Noodles typically takes about 5 to 6 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. The cooking time can vary with different slow cooker models, so check for doneness if you’re unsure.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it cooks thoroughly. Ensure your crockpot can handle frozen chicken safely by consulting the manufacturer’s guidelines.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy, add them during the last 30 to 45 minutes of cooking. Stir them occasionally to ensure even cooking and avoid sticking.
Can I make Crockpot Chicken and Noodles without cream of chicken soup?
Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade option, you can prepare a simple white sauce as a substitute for cream of chicken soup. Combine flour, butter, and chicken broth with seasonings to mimic the creaminess.
Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use fresh, high-quality chicken for best results.
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz each)
- 1-2 teaspoons dried parsley Adjust to personal taste.
- 0.5 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 0.25 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder Increase for more garlic flavor.
- 0.5 stick butter, sliced Do not skip for creaminess.
- 3.5 cups chicken broth Homemade or low-sodium options recommended.
- 8 ounces uncooked egg noodles Add in last 30-45 minutes of cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot in a single layer.
- Pour the two cans of cream of chicken soup over the chicken.
- Sprinkle dried parsley, seasoned salt, poultry seasoning, and garlic powder over the top.
- Slice the butter and place the slices on top of the mixture.
- Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Once the cooking time is complete, shred the chicken inside the crockpot using two forks.
- Stir in the uncooked egg noodles and ensure they are well combined with the mixture.
- Cover the crockpot and cook for an additional 30 to 45 minutes on high, or until the noodles are tender and cooked through.
- Serve the chicken and noodles into bowls, garnishing with parsley if desired.
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