Homestyle Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
This recipe combines tender shredded chicken, savory broth, hearty noodles, and colorful vegetables in a creamy, comforting sauce. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers, and it’s as easy as it is satisfying.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- Protein and Base
- 2 large frozen chicken breasts (if fresh, reduce cooking time slightly)
- 1 (32 oz) container of 50% less sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet of chicken gravy mix (for that rich, savory flavor)
- 1 (family-size, 26 oz) can of cream of chicken soup
- Flavor Enhancers
- 1/2 stick (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, cubed (adds richness)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (substitute with garlic powder for variation)
- 1/4 tsp dried parsley (optional, but adds a fresh touch)
- Carbs and Veggies
- 1 (24 oz) package of Reames frozen noodles (or substitute with egg noodles if unavailable)
- 1 (10 oz) bag of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, or your favorite blend)
- Optional Garnish and Serving Suggestions
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Biscuits, dinner rolls, or crusty bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set Up Your Crockpot
- Begin by placing the frozen chicken breasts directly in the bottom of your crockpot. (No need to thaw—frozen chicken works perfectly for this slow-cooked recipe.)
- Mix the Soup Base
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Add the gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, cubed butter, pepper, onion powder, and dried parsley.
- Gently stir the broth and seasonings, ensuring everything is well combined. (Don’t worry if the butter remains in chunks; it will melt as it cooks.)
- Cook the Chicken
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on high for about 5 hours or on low for 7-8 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook through and become tender enough to shred.
- Shred the Chicken
- After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. This will help distribute the meat evenly through the dish, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Add the Noodles and Vegetables
- Once the chicken is shredded, stir in the frozen noodles and mixed vegetables. Ensure they’re fully submerged in the sauce so they cook evenly.
- Cook the Noodles and Veggies
- Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Check the noodles’ doneness periodically—they should be tender but not mushy.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning
- Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more pepper, parsley, or a splash of chicken broth if the dish seems too thick.
- Serve Hot
- Ladle the chicken and noodles into bowls and serve immediately. For added flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair with warm biscuits, dinner rolls, or crusty bread to complete the meal.
Tips for Success
- Noodles: If you prefer softer noodles, cook them longer. If using fresh or dried egg noodles instead of frozen, reduce the cooking time by 15-20 minutes.
- Vegetables: Feel free to use fresh vegetables (like diced carrots and celery) instead of frozen. Add them in with the chicken to cook until tender.
- Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the crockpot during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Make it Your Own: Add mushrooms, garlic, or a pinch of cayenne for a slight kick. You can also substitute turkey for chicken to make this a great post-holiday dish.
Serving Suggestions
- With Biscuits: Serve this dish with fluffy homemade biscuits to soak up the creamy sauce.
- As a Casserole: Pour the finished dish into a casserole dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs or cheese, and broil for a few minutes for a crispy top.
- As Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully. Add a splash of chicken broth before reheating to keep the noodles from drying out.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
This Homestyle Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something hearty without too much effort. Enjoy!