Crockpot Chicken and Noodles

Instructions

Now, let’s walk through the steps to make this comforting Crockpot Chicken and Noodles.

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts (or thighs) at the bottom of your slow cooker. No need to pre-cook the chicken—it will cook directly in the broth and become incredibly tender as it simmers.

2. Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth over the chicken. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and parsley. These simple seasonings will infuse the chicken and broth with flavor as it cooks.

3. Cook on Low

Cover the slow cooker with the lid, and cook the chicken on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily with a fork.

4. Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker and give everything a good stir to mix the flavors.

5. Add the Cream and Noodles

Now, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) to give the dish a rich, creamy texture. Then, add the frozen egg noodles directly into the slow cooker. Stir to ensure the noodles are submerged in the broth.

6. Cook the Noodles

Cover the slow cooker again and cook on low for an additional 30-45 minutes or until the noodles are tender. If you’re using a different type of noodles, check the package instructions for the correct cooking time. You may need to add more broth if it thickens too much.

7. Finish and Serve

Once the noodles are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want a richer flavor, stir in a couple of tablespoons of butter. Serve the chicken and noodles hot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Noodles

• Use Bone-In Chicken: For even more flavor, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. The bones add depth to the broth as it cooks. Just be sure to remove the bones after shredding the chicken.
• Add Veggies: You can sneak in some veggies like carrots, celery, or peas for extra nutrition. Just chop them up and add them along with the chicken broth in step 2.
• Use Your Favorite Noodles: While egg noodles are classic, you can use any kind of pasta you prefer. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.
• Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thicker or thinner consistency, you can adjust the amount of broth. For a more soup-like dish, add extra broth; for a more casserole-style meal, use less.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Days

We all know how hectic life can get, and sometimes preparing a full meal feels like a daunting task. That’s where the Crockpot Chicken and Noodles comes in! Just toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal waiting for you at the end of the day. It’s also perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting dish but don’t have a lot of time to cook.

Serving Suggestions

While Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is filling on its own, it pairs well with simple sides like:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, buttery bread for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: If you’re craving more carbs, garlic bread is always a winner with a creamy pasta dish.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is a dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and convenience. With minimal prep and effort, you can create a comforting meal that will satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or preparing it for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Give it a try, and enjoy the ease and deliciousness that comes with a hearty, slow-cooked meal!