Introduction to Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
As a busy mom who loves to cook, I know the struggle of balancing meal prep with a packed schedule. That’s why I absolutely adore my Crockpot Chicken and Noodles. This comforting dish is like a warm hug after a hectic day. Imagine tender chicken simmered in a creamy sauce with egg noodles soaking up all that flavor. It’s the kind of meal that the whole family will gather around, bringing smiles and satisfaction. Plus, with minimal effort, you can whip up a nourishing dinner that feels like it took all day to prepare!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is practically a dream come true for busy evenings. You’ll love how easily this meal comes together. Just toss everything into your stovetop wonder, and let it work its magic. The taste? Heavenly! Each bite of tender chicken and creamy noodles feels like a cozy Sunday dinner, no matter how chaotic your day was. It’s comfort food made simple, which is what we all need at times!
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
Creating this delightful Crockpot Chicken and Noodles requires just a handful of key ingredients that work beautifully together.
- Egg Noodles: These are the heart of the dish, providing texture and soaking up the creamy goodness.
- Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! Tender chicken infuses the broth with flavor as it cooks.
- Butter: A touch of butter adds richness and enhances the creamy sauce for a delightful taste.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This pantry staple creates the creamy base that elevates the dish to comfort food status.
- Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic offers a savory kick, enriching every spoonful.
- Chicken Broth: Essential for flavor, it keeps the dish moist while it’s cooking in the crockpot.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the freshness of your ingredients. Adjust according to taste!
- Chicken Bouillon: Using bouillon boosts the chicken flavor, making this meal even more scrumptious.
- Dried Parsley: A sprinkle of dried parsley at the end adds a pop of color and a fresh taste.
For those looking to customize, feel free to use whole wheat noodles for a healthier option or even add in some veggies like carrots and peas for a nutrient boost. Just remember, the exact ingredient quantities can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing when you’re set to cook!
How to Make Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
Now, let’s dive into the heart of the matter! Making Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is as effortless as pie, yet the flavors it produces are out of this world. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful meal ready to be enjoyed!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken breasts into the crockpot. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chicken bouillon. Oh, the aroma of the seasonings already getting to work! This initial step sets the flavor base for the entire dish.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Soup
Next, spread the two cans of cream of chicken soup evenly over the seasoned chicken. This is where the magic begins! The soup will become the creamy sauce that envelops everything as it cooks. You’ll want to make sure it covers all the chicken for even flavor.
Step 3: Introduce the Butter and Broth
Now, it’s time to add the pats of butter across the top. Just imagine that buttery goodness melting and enriching the sauce! After that, pour in the chicken broth. The broth adds moisture, keeping everything tender and juicy while slow cooking. It’s like a warm bath for your chicken!
Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on high for about 3 to 4 hours. While it’s simmering, resist the urge to peek too often! Trust me, good things come to those who wait. The chicken will become so tender that it will practically fall apart.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, take two forks and shred it right in the pot. It’s messy but oh-so-satisfying! The shredded chicken will blend seamlessly with that creamy sauce, making every bowl a delight.
Step 6: Add the Noodles
Next, toss in your egg noodles. Make sure they are fully submerged in the liquid. This is crucial as it helps them to soften and soak up all that delicious flavor. Stir gently to combine, while looking forward to the comforting dish coming together.
Step 7: Finish Cooking
Finally, cover the crockpot again and cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. This step allows the noodles to become tender without losing their delightful chew. Just before serving, stir in dried parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your homemade Crockpot Chicken and Noodles!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; the longer, the better for tender chicken!
- Adjust seasoning to your family’s taste; every palate is unique.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot: The star of the show! A slow cooker is essential for this recipe.
- Measuring Cups: Handy for precise liquid measurements, but a good eyeballing will work too!
- Two Forks: Perfect for shredding the chicken. Hands work in a pinch, too!
- Spatula: Great for mixing and serving up this delicious meal.
Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Add some chopped carrots, peas, or celery for a nutrition kick and added flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the cream of chicken soup for a dairy-free alternative and use olive oil instead of butter.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
- Herbed Goodness: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried parsley for a more intense flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Noodles: Use gluten-free egg noodles to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Crockpot Chicken and Noodles with a fresh garden salad for a light and nutritious side.
- A warm, crusty bread makes a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
- For drinks, consider a crisp white wine or refreshing iced tea to complement the meal.
- Garnish each bowl with extra parsley for a beautiful presentation!
FAQs about Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to about 4 to 5 hours on high. The slow cooker will fully thaw and cook the chicken to tender perfection!
What can I do if my noodles are too thick?
If your noodles turn out thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Mix well to incorporate the extra liquid evenly throughout.
Can I prepare Crockpot Chicken and Noodles ahead of time?
Yes! You can layer the ingredients in your crockpot the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply turn it on and let it cook while you tackle your day!
What should I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on low in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it creamy!
Can I make this a one-pot meal with more veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables. Chopped carrots, green beans, or peas blend perfectly with the flavors. Just toss them in during the last half hour of cooking!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Crockpot Chicken and Noodles transforms dinner into a heartfelt experience. The aroma wafting through the kitchen reminds me of family gatherings and laughter around the table. Each bite is a comforting embrace, perfect for busy weeknights when the chaos of life makes it hard to slow down. You’ll appreciate how simple ingredients can create such warmth and satisfaction. This dish is more than a meal; it’s a reminder of the love that goes into cooking for those we cherish. Embrace the joy of sharing this recipe with your family, and enjoy the moments that follow!
Print
Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is a flavorful one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, creamy soup, and egg noodles, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1.5–2 lb chicken breasts
- ½ stick butter, cut into pats
- Two 10.5-oz cans cream of chicken soup
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 3.5 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
- 2–4 tbsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chicken bouillon.
- Spread both cans of cream of chicken soup evenly over the chicken.
- Add the butter pats and pour in the chicken broth.
- Cover and cook on high for 3–4 hours.
- Once the chicken is tender, shred it using two forks.
- Add the egg noodles, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid.
- Cover again and cook for 20–30 minutes, or until the noodles are softened.
- Stir in the dried parsley, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for larger servings.
- Adjust the amount of seasoning based on personal preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot/Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
