Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles to soothe the soul and bring comfort to your day. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for those times when you crave something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Paired with crusty bread or a fresh side salad, it’s a meal that will leave everyone at the table happy and content.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true lifesaver for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum flavor, thanks to the slow cooking process that melds the ingredients together to perfection. Plus, the leftovers are just as delightful when reheated, making it a great option for meal prep enthusiasts.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Slow Cooker
• Whisk
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Knife and Cutting Board

Ingredients

• 1 package frozen egg noodles (24 ounces)
• 2 cans cream of chicken soup (14.7 oz each; or substitute 1 can with cream of celery for variety)
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, cut into pieces
• 1 can chicken broth (32 oz), plus extra if needed to thin out the broth
• 1 tsp Better Than Bouillon (optional, for a richer chicken flavor)
• 6 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 4 large ones
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Mixed vegetables (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 3: Spoon the cream of chicken soup over the chicken.

Step 4: Distribute the cut butter pieces evenly over the soup.

Step 5: Whisk the chicken broth with the bouillon (if using).

Step 6: Pour the broth mixture over the soup-covered chicken.

Step 7: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 hours.

Step 8: After cooking, remove the chicken and shred it into pieces.

Step 9: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 10: Add the noodles, and if you’re using mixed vegetables, add them now as well.

Step 11: Continue cooking for another 2 hours, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally during this time. If the broth becomes too thick, add extra chicken broth as needed.

Step 12: If using parsley, sprinkle it over the dish just before serving.

Step 13: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use about ¾ of a 12 oz bag of egg noodles for the perfect noodle-to-broth ratio.
• Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for the breasts if you prefer a more tender texture.
• No-yolk noodles are a great alternative if you’re looking for a different type of pasta.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Experiment with different cream soups to change the flavor profile of the dish.
• Add a variety of vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition and color.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Nutrition information will vary based on the specific brands and quantities used, but generally, this dish is a rich source of protein and provides a comforting serving of carbohydrates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh noodles instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh noodles can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as they might cook faster than frozen ones.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the point before adding noodles and refrigerate. Add the noodles when you reheat the dish.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles is a delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, comforting, and versatile enough to suit various tastes. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you might add to the recipe. Bon appétit!