Crockpot Chicken and Noodles: A Family Favorite
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and noodles, especially when it’s made in a slow cooker. This crockpot chicken and noodles recipe is not only easy to prepare but also ideal for busy families looking for a hearty meal. Tender chicken, rich broth, and fluffy noodles come together in this delightful dish, making it a go-to favorite in our household. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In the bottom of your crockpot, place the boneless chicken breasts. Pour the chicken broth over the top.
- Add the heavy cream, chopped carrots, celery, diced onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Add the egg noodles to the crockpot and stir to combine. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Once the noodles are cooked, stir everything together. Adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious crockpot chicken and noodles!
Why This Recipe Works
This crockpot chicken and noodles recipe is a family favorite for many reasons. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory broth that envelops the tender chicken and soft noodles. The addition of heavy cream adds a luxurious creaminess that elevates the dish, making it feel indulgent yet comforting.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
- Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of your chicken and broth can greatly affect the flavor of the dish. Opt for organic chicken and low-sodium broth for the best results.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your family’s preferences. Peas, corn, or green beans can be fantastic additions!
- Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the crockpot about 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside some roasted vegetables or a simple fruit salad to balance the richness of the chicken and noodles.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up if needed. This dish also freezes well; just be sure to store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Final Thoughts
This crockpot chicken and noodles recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for any night of the week, this dish brings the whole family together around the dinner table. Next time you’re looking for a comforting meal to satisfy your loved ones, give this family favorite a try!
