Chicken Noodles prepared in a slow cooker is a comforting and hearty meal that effortlessly combines tender chicken with flavorful broth and soft, inviting noodles. This dish is a quintessential example of set-it-and-forget-it cooking, making it perfect for busy weekdays, cozy weekends, or anytime you crave a soothing bowl of homemade goodness. Having tried this recipe myself, I can vouch for its simplicity and the delightful warmth it brings to the table. The chicken comes out incredibly tender, effortlessly shredding into the creamy broth seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, while the egg noodles cook to perfection, absorbing the rich flavors of the broth.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cans of cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 stick of butter, sliced into pats
- 3 1/2 cups of chicken broth
- 8 ounces of egg noodles, uncooked
How To Make Chicken Noodles
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add Ingredients: Combine the cream of chicken soup, dried parsley, seasoned salt, poultry seasoning, and garlic powder in the slow cooker. Distribute the slices of butter evenly over the top, then pour the chicken broth over everything.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker to low heat for 5-6 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks.
- Add Noodles: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the uncooked egg noodles and stir to combine everything well. Continue cooking on low for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed the flavors of the broth.
- Serve: Once the noodles are tender, your Chicken Noodles are ready to be served. Enjoy hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Recipe Tips:
- Enhancing Flavor: For a deeper flavor, you can sauté the spices in a tablespoon of butter before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Broth Consistency: If you prefer a thinner broth, consider adding an extra 1/2 cup of chicken broth when you add the noodles.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to incorporate vegetables such as carrots, celery, or peas for added nutrition and flavor. Add them when you add the noodles to ensure they don’t become too soft.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.
FAQ Section
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and can add more flavor due to their higher fat content. Cooking time remains the same.
- Can I use fresh noodles instead of dry?
- Fresh noodles can be used but add them later in the cooking process since they take less time to cook than dry noodles.
- Is it possible to cook this recipe on the stovetop?
- Yes, this recipe can be adapted for stovetop cooking. Simmer everything except the noodles in a large pot until the chicken is cooked through, then add the noodles and cook until tender.
- How can I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?
- To prevent mushy noodles, ensure you add them during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking time. This allows them to cook fully without overcooking.
Chicken Noodles made in the slow cooker is a wonderfully effortless dish that delivers comfort and flavor with minimal prep. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a reliable go-to meal for any occasion.