Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
Highlighted under: Quick Dinner Recipes
A comforting and hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings.
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles recipe is not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious. The chicken becomes tender and flavorful, while the noodles soak up all the savory goodness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Rich and creamy sauce that coats the noodles perfectly
- A one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze
- Perfect comfort food for any occasion
What Makes This Dish Special
Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles is a beloved dish that brings together the simplicity of slow cooking with the heartwarming flavors of home-cooked meals. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward preparation, allowing you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work. The result is tender chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, making it a true crowd-pleaser for families and friends alike.
This dish shines especially during the colder months when comfort food is a necessity. The combination of chicken, noodles, and vegetables creates a balanced meal that warms you from the inside out. With every bite, you can savor the harmony of flavors that come together in the slow cooker. It's a meal that not only satisfies the hunger but also evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner, Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles fits the bill perfectly. Its one-pot nature makes it ideal for busy schedules, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with your loved ones. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
This recipe is also versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. You can easily customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or swap out the chicken for a vegetarian alternative. The creamy sauce can be adapted to cater to different tastes, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
Tips for the Best Results
For the best results, use high-quality chicken breasts. The slow cooker will transform them into tender morsels that practically melt in your mouth. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds depth to the dish and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Don’t skip on the seasoning! Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste, and feel free to add your favorite herbs such as thyme or rosemary. These additions can elevate the dish further, making it even more enjoyable. Additionally, if you love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
In the slow cooker, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and ensure they are well-coated with the mixture.
Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Add Vegetables and Noodles
About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen mixed vegetables and cooked egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
Serve
Once everything is heated through, serve the chicken and noodles warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers of Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To preserve the texture of the noodles, consider separating them from the sauce before storing. This way, they won’t become overly soggy when reheated.
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce, ensuring the dish remains creamy and delicious. This makes it a great option for quick lunches or busy weeknight dinners.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the creamy chicken and noodles, consider serving a light salad on the side. A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast. You might also enjoy some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
For a heartier meal, pair your chicken and noodles with steamed vegetables or a side of roasted broccoli. These options not only add nutritional value but also enhance the overall dining experience with vibrant colors and textures on your plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
One common question is whether you can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Yes, you can! Just add an additional hour to the cooking time to ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender. This is a great time-saver if you forgot to thaw your chicken ahead of time.
Another question often asked is about the consistency of the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help thicken the sauce without altering the flavor, providing that rich, creamy texture you desire.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce as a substitute.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots or peas.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
A comforting and hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Quick Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In the slow cooker, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and ensure they are well-coated with the mixture.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen mixed vegetables and cooked egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
Once everything is heated through, serve the chicken and noodles warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g