Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true set-it-and-forget-it meal, ideal for busy schedules. The slow cooker does the work of tenderizing the chicken and melding the flavors, while the noodles cook right in the same pot, absorbing the savory broth. The result is a creamy, flavorful dish that feels homemade without the hassle. It’s perfect for comforting family dinners and also reheats wonderfully for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
• ¼ teaspoon seasoning salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
• 4 ½ cups chicken broth
• 8 ounces dried egg noodles
• Freshly chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, seasoning salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add the butter pieces on top.
4. Pour the chicken broth evenly over everything in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
6. Remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
7. Add the dried egg noodles, stirring them into the broth. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, until the noodles are tender.
8. Stir gently, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, plus 20-30 minutes for noodles
• Total time: Approximately 7 hours (slow cooker low)

Variations

• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
• Add vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Use gluten-free egg noodles or pasta for dietary needs.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for some of the chicken broth and reduce the butter.
• Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
• This dish does not freeze well because the noodles tend to become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time by about an hour on low.

Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make a stovetop version by simmering the ingredients in a large pot, cooking the chicken until tender, shredding it, and then adding noodles to cook until tender.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can make a homemade version using butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk or cream to create a creamy base.

How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?

Add the noodles towards the end of cooking and monitor closely; avoid overcooking.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, egg noodles are traditional, but other pasta shapes like rotini or shells can work as well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, since traditional egg noodles contain gluten. Use gluten-free noodles to make it gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

How can I make this dish creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream when adding the noodles for extra creaminess.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, add diced carrots, celery, or peas during the last hour of cooking for added flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge and reheats easily, making it a great option for meal prep lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles is a comforting and convenient meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction. The creamy, tender chicken combined with soft noodles makes for a perfect dish to warm you on busy or chilly days. Whether you’re feeding family or meal prepping, this recipe is a reliable go-to that’s easy to customize and always hits the spot.

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