Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles

This Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles recipe is a family favorite that combines juicy chicken, tender noodles, and hearty vegetables in a rich, creamy broth. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms you from the inside out. With only 15 minutes of prep time, your slow cooker does all the work—making this an ideal meal for busy days or cozy weekends at home.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 4 cups cooked chicken (see notes)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• 24 ounces frozen egg noodles (such as Reames)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Place it in the slow cooker with the diced onion.
2. Add the Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Sprinkle with thyme and black pepper.
3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender (165°F).
4. Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
5. Add Vegetables and Noodles: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and frozen egg noodles.
6. Cook Until Tender: Cover again and cook for another 60–90 minutes, stirring every 30 minutes, until noodles are soft and cooked through.
7. Finish and Serve: Stir in chopped parsley before serving for added flavor and color.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving Ideas: Serve Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles with warm buttered rolls, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. It’s also delicious spooned over mashed potatoes or white rice for an extra comforting meal.
• Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker consistency, remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of cooking or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze before adding the noodles and add fresh noodles when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Variations

1. Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Noodles – Replace one can of cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a deeper, savory flavor.
2. Cheesy Chicken and Noodles – Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese right before serving for a rich, cheesy twist.
3. Chicken and Dumpling Style – Add biscuit dough pieces (cut into small chunks) during the last 30 minutes instead of noodles for a soft, dumpling-like version.
4. Spicy Chicken and Noodles – Mix in a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
5. Loaded Veggie Chicken and Noodles – Add extra veggies like diced carrots, peas, corn, or celery for more nutrition and color.
6. Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken and Noodles – Add a tablespoon of minced garlic and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a flavorful herbal touch.
7. Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Noodles – Replace the cream of chicken soup with Alfredo sauce and add Parmesan for a creamy Italian twist.
8. Ranch Chicken and Noodles – Add a packet of ranch seasoning for a tangy, herby flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy broth.
9. Chicken and Corn Chowder Style – Add one can of cream-style corn and diced potatoes for a thick, chowder-like meal.
10. Low-Sodium Healthy Version – Use low-sodium broth, homemade cream soup, and whole-grain noodles for a lighter and heart-healthy version.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
   Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and food safety.
2. Can I cook this on low instead of high?
   Absolutely. Cook on low for 6–7 hours, then continue with the noodle step as directed.
3. Can I use homemade noodles?
   Yes, but add them near the end and reduce cooking time slightly since fresh noodles cook faster.
4. How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
   Stir occasionally and check after 60 minutes to ensure they’re just tender, not overcooked.
5. Can I use a different protein?
   Yes, turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even leftover ham works great.
6. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Use a dairy-free cream soup alternative and plant-based butter for a similar creamy texture.
7. Can I add more vegetables?
   Definitely. Carrots, celery, peas, or corn all blend beautifully with the flavors.
8. What if my sauce is too thin?
   Let it cook uncovered for the last 15 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
9. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble ingredients the night before, refrigerate, and start cooking in the morning.
10. What side dishes go well with this meal?
    Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad are perfect complements.

This Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. It’s hearty, creamy, and packed with classic home-style goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a comforting dinner to enjoy after a long day, this dish delivers every time. Serve it with a side of warm rolls or a fresh salad, and you’ve got an easy, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

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