Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty noodles, and rich, savoury flavours all cooked together in one pot. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Let's dive into this easy, delicious recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your table.
Ingredients
To prepare Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Follow these steps to make Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles:
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Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Add Vegetables and Broth: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and water.
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Season: Sprinkle the dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
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Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
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Add Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
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Add Peas and Cream: Stir in the frozen peas and heavy cream (if using). Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the peas are heated through.
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Serve: Ladle the chicken and noodles into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
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Noodle Choice: Egg noodles are classic for this dish, but you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Adjust cooking time if using a different type of noodle.
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Creamy Variation: For a creamier version, add the heavy cream. For a lighter option, you can omit the cream or use half-and-half.
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Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, green beans, or corn for extra flavour and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles pairs well with:
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Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
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Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a great accompaniment.
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Roasted Vegetables: Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that's perfect for any day of the week. With tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a rich broth, this meal is sure to become a family favourite. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this slow-cooked classic.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They add extra flavour and tend to be more tender.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
How long can leftovers be stored? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles? Yes, you can freeze this dish. However, the noodles may become a bit mushy upon reheating. It's best to freeze the soup without the noodles and add cooked noodles when reheating.
Can I add other herbs and spices? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. Rosemary, sage, or oregano would be great additions.
Enjoy the comforting and delicious flavours of Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles, a perfect dish for any occasion!
