chicken and noodles in crock pot recipe
The Best chicken and noodles in crock pot recipe
Chicken and noodles in the crock pot is one of those simple, reliable meals that always feels like a hug for my family. There’s something about the slow cooker that makes everything tender and flavorful without any fuss, and this recipe is no exception. I’ve been making it since my kids were little, and honestly, they still ask for it every now and then—even though they’ve grown up. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t require constant attention, so it’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends when I just want something hearty and satisfying without the stress of chopping or stirring.
My family loves it because it’s filling but not overwhelming, and the flavors meld together just right. The crock pot does all the work, so I can focus on other things while it cooks, whether it’s prepping the next meal or just relaxing. And honestly, it’s one of those meals that feels special enough to serve on occasion—like a quick dinner for a dinner party or a make-ahead dish for a family gathering. Plus, it’s got a little something for everyone, whether they’re kids who need extra protein or adults who want a comforting, balanced meal.
From a health perspective, it’s a smart choice too. Lean chicken is packed with protein, and the whole grains in the noodles give you fiber and energy without the heaviness. It’s not too rich, so it’s a good option if you’re watching portions, but it still feels indulgent enough to enjoy regularly. And honestly, once it’s done, it’s so easy to reheat and serve, so there’s no waste—just delicious leftovers that keep my family full and happy. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t just fill a plate; it fills a need.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
A comforting, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, creamy noodles, and savory tomato-based sauce, all prepared effortlessly in a slow cooker. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 12 oz pasta (e.g., penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if browning chicken (optional). In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brown chicken on all sides (about 5 mins per side), then transfer to slow cooker.
-
2 In the same skillet, sauté garlic in the remaining oil for 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for 1 minute. Pour sauce into the slow cooker with the chicken.
-
3 Cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, then cook for another 30 minutes.
-
4 While the chicken cooks, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
5 Once chicken is cooked through, shred it using kitchen shears or forks. Stir shredded chicken, cooked pasta, and Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to melt cheese.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Kitchen shears
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles Works
This chicken and noodles crock pot recipe is always a reliable choice for any occasion because it’s simple enough to make ahead and still taste delicious, while also being hearty enough to feed a crowd without any fuss. It’s perfect for family gatherings because it lets everyone sit back and relax while the slow cooker takes care of the work, and the flavors meld together beautifully over time. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize with different herbs or veggies, so there’s no stress about pleasing everyone’s taste buds.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
How long should I cook the chicken and noodles in the crock pot for a tender and flavorful result?
For a Low setting, cook for 6–7 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F/74°C internal temp) and the noodles are tender. For a High setting, cook for 3–4 hours—just ensure the noodles soften without overcooking. Always check the noodles halfway through cooking if unsure.
—
Can I use any type of noodles in this crock pot chicken and noodles recipe?
Yes! You can use any pasta—spaghetti, penne, rotini, or even egg noodles. For softer noodles, use fresh egg noodles or fresh pasta (they cook faster). Avoid dried wheat-free noodles (like rice noodles) unless you adjust the liquid, as they may not absorb flavors well.
—
What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from getting mushy or dry in the crock pot?
To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcrowding the pot—add noodles and liquid in layers (chicken first, then broth, then noodles). Use enough broth (1.5–2 cups) to cover the noodles, and add 1–2 cups of water or broth to the chicken before placing it in the pot. Stirring occasionally with a spoon can also help distribute moisture.
—
Can I add vegetables to this crock pot chicken and noodles recipe, and if so, which ones work best?
Absolutely! Great veggies include: – Carrots & celery (add raw for crunch, or parboiled for softer texture) – Peas (add at the end to avoid mushiness) – Bell peppers (chopped and added early) – Zucchini or mushrooms (add after the chicken cooks) Tip: Cut veggies into even-sized pieces to cook uniformly. Avoid overly fibrous veggies (like broccoli) unless finely chopped.
—
What’s the secret to making the broth taste even better in this recipe?
Boost flavor with these easy upgrades: – Use a bouillon cube (chicken or veggie) dissolved in broth. – Add garlic cloves, onion slices, or herbs (thyme, bay leaf, or parsley) while cooking. – Stir in 1 tbsp soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or a splash of hot sauce for depth. – For extra richness, deglaze the pot with a splash of wine or beer after cooking. – Season at the end with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed.
