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Crockpot Chicken and Noodles: 5-Ingredient Easy How-To!

Introduction

Craving a comforting, no-fuss meal? This chicken and noodles in the crockpot recipe is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and rich broth with just five simple ingredients. As a seasoned home cook and slow-cooking enthusiast, I’ve fine-tuned this recipe to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—let’s dive in!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple ingredients for your chicken and noodles in the crockpot:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (12 oz) bag egg noodles (or homemade noodles for extra flair)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup diced carrots or celery for added nutrition

Timing

This fuss-free chicken and noodles in the crockpot recipe takes minimal prep:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours on Low or 2-3 hours on High
• Total Time: 4-6.5 hours

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your crockpot. Season evenly with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet for 2 minutes per side before adding it to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Liquids

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. If using veggies, add them now. Cover and cook on Low for 4-6 hours or High for 2-3 hours until the chicken shreds easily.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the crockpot. This ensures every bite of your chicken and noodles in the crockpot is tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Stir in the egg noodles, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth. Cover and cook on High for 20-30 minutes until al dente. Avoid overcooking—noodles can turn mushy!

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Taste and adjust salt/pepper as needed. For a creamier texture, stir in ½ cup heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Nutritional Information

This chicken and noodles in the crockpot recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. A single serving (about 1.5 cups) provides approximately:

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 22g (great for muscle repair!)
• Carbs: 35g (energy-boosting complex carbs)
• Fats: 8g (mostly healthy unsaturated fats)
• Fiber: 3g (supports digestion)

For a deeper dive into balancing comfort food with nutrition, check out this Texas Two-Step Chicken and Noodles recipe, which offers a similar flavor profile with a twist. If you’re tracking macros, consider pairing this dish with a light salad or steamed veggies for added fiber.

Want a cheesy alternative? Try this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake for a higher-protein, indulgent option.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Craving chicken and noodles in the crockpot but want a lighter version? Here are easy swaps:

• Whole-Wheat Noodles: Boost fiber by 40% without sacrificing texture.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Reduces sodium by up to 30%.
• Greek Yogurt: Swap heavy cream for plain Greek yogurt (adds protein!).
• Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, carrots, or zucchini for extra vitamins.

For a stuffing-inspired twist, this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing Casserole uses whole-grain bread for a healthier crunch. Prefer garlicky flavors? These Parmesan Garlic Noodles use olive oil instead of butter.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your chicken and noodles in the crockpot with these pairings:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra broth.
• Roasted Veggies: Try Brussels sprouts or asparagus for contrast.

For a full comfort-food spread, serve alongside this Texas Two-Step Chicken and Noodles as a side. Or, if you’re hosting, pair with this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake for a crowd-pleasing duo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chicken and noodles in the crockpot is simple, but a few missteps can ruin your dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

Overcooking the Noodles

Adding noodles too early turns them mushy. For al dente texture, stir them in during the last 30–45 minutes of cooking. Check out this Texas Two-Step Chicken and Noodles recipe for perfect timing tips.

Using Low-Quality Broth

Bland broth = bland dish. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought stock. For richer flavor, try the broth from this Crockpot Chicken and Stuffing Casserole as inspiration.

Ignoring Layering Order

Chicken should go in first to cook evenly. Veggies and noodles follow later. Skipping this step risks uneven cooking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Keep your chicken and noodles in the crockpot fresh with these storage hacks:

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to revive moisture. For creamy variations, check this Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake for reheating tricks.

Freezing

Freeze without noodles for best texture. Thaw overnight, then add fresh noodles when reheating. Need more freezer-friendly ideas? This Parmesan Garlic Noodles guide helps adapt recipes.

Portioning

Divide into single servings before freezing for quick meals. Label with dates to track freshness.

Conclusion

Making chicken and noodles in the crockpot couldn’t be easier—just toss in 5 simple ingredients, set it, and forget it! This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave a home-cooked meal without the fuss. With tender chicken, soft noodles, and a rich broth, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

From my experience, this recipe is a lifesaver for meal prep or feeding a hungry family. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day. If you loved this recipe, check out more easy crockpot meals below!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen chicken works, but extend cooking time by 1-2 hours to ensure it cooks through. Always check the internal temperature (165°F).

What’s the best noodle type for chicken and noodles in the crockpot?
Egg noodles or wide pasta hold up best. Avoid thin noodles (like angel hair) as they may overcook.

How do I prevent mushy noodles?
Add noodles in the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap regular noodles for gluten-free pasta and use a GF cream soup substitute.

How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of broth to revive moisture.