Short and satisfying, this Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles recipe is a comfort food classic that never fails to warm your soul. Imagine walking through the door after a long day to the enticing smell of tender chicken simmering in a creamy, flavorful broth. With minimal effort, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or simply when you’re craving something hearty. I’ve spent countless moments preparing this meal, and every time, it’s become a family favorite, bringing everyone together around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There’s something truly special about slow-cooked meals, and this Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles recipe captures that magic perfectly. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also offers a wholesome, homemade taste without hours spent in the kitchen. The combination of chicken, egg noodles, and creamy soup creates a dish that’s both filling and comforting—ideal for a cozy family dinner or a simple gathering with friends.
"This is my go-to recipe! It’s so easy to make, and everyone in my family raves about it. Love the creamy texture and how the chicken just falls apart!" – A happy home cook.
Preparing Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles
Cooking this dish is a breeze! You’ll be delighted to know that it requires just a few steps. First, you start by placing chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. Next, layer the creamy soup and seasonings, then pour in the chicken broth. After cooking it low and slow, a quick shred of the chicken makes it easy to incorporate the egg noodles. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this comforting dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup (with herbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup salted butter, sliced into chunks
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz medium egg noodles, uncooked
- 1-2 teaspoons dried parsley, for serving
You can swap out the chicken for turkey or use cream of mushroom soup for a twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Spread the cream of chicken soup evenly over the chicken.
- Generously sprinkle salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder on top.
- Dot the chicken with the sliced butter, then pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks.
- Stir in the uncooked egg noodles, cover, and cook for another 30-45 minutes until the noodles are tender.
- If the mixture gets too thick, you can add more broth or a splash of milk.
- For an optional garnish, sprinkle with dried parsley before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To serve your Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles, ladle a generous portion into a bowl for each person. You can add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor. This dish pairs nicely with crusty bread or a side salad to balance the creaminess.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes well — simply let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up, and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, consider searing the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- If you’re short on time, opt for rotisserie chicken; just shred it and combine it with the rest of the ingredients for a quicker meal.
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with adding veggies like carrots or peas to make it even more nutritious!
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? There are plenty of creative twists you can give this classic recipe. For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or serve it with spicy pickled jalapeños. You could also add different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a fresh aroma. For a lighter option, use whole wheat noodles or zucchini noodles to give it a health-conscious spin.
FAQs
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time for Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles is just about 15 minutes, making it a quick weeknight meal option.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can use turkey breasts or even cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
How can I ensure the pasta doesn’t get mushy?
To prevent the egg noodles from becoming mushy, make sure to add them in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. This allows for them to cook perfectly without overdoing it.
