chicken and noodles recipe crock pot
The Best chicken and noodles recipe crock pot
This chicken and noodles recipe in the crock pot is one of those simple, reliable dishes that always feels like a hug for my family. There’s something about the tender chicken and the way the noodles soak up the savory broth that makes it feel like a home-cooked meal every time. It’s not some fancy restaurant dish, but it’s always been a comfort for my kids—especially when they’re tired after school or when I’m just too exhausted to think about cooking anything complicated. The crock pot does all the work, so by the time dinner rolls around, I’m not stressing over timing or flipping. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve done everything right, even if you’re just following a basic recipe.
I love this dish because it’s so versatile—you can make it with any kind of chicken you have, adjust the seasonings to taste, and even swap out the noodles for rice or pasta if you’re feeling different. It’s also one of those meals that feels special, whether it’s for a regular weeknight or something a little more intentional, like a family dinner or a weekend gathering. The kids always ask for it because it’s flavorful but not too heavy, and it’s got that perfect balance of protein and carbs. Plus, the crock pot keeps everything warm and delicious until everyone’s ready to eat, so there’s no last-minute scrambling. And let’s be honest, there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of chicken and noodles on a chilly day—it’s comforting, filling, and easy to make. It’s one of those recipes that doesn’t just feed your stomach, it feeds your soul.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
A comforting, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, creamy noodles, and a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for a quick and hearty dinner. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown (5-7 mins per side). Remove and set aside.
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2 In the same skillet, sauté onion until soft (3-4 mins). Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir and simmer for 2 minutes.
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3 In a large pot, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water. Set aside.
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4 Transfer the tomato mixture to the slow cooker. Add cooked chicken, cooked pasta, heavy cream, and butter. Stir well. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
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5 If desired, stir in shredded cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with extra cheese or a side salad.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
📊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 lifesaver for busy nights or family gatherings because it’s simple, hearty, and packed with flavor—no last-minute stress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a comforting meal, this dish cooks hands-off while keeping everyone satisfied with tender chicken and chewy noodles, all in one easy step. It’s perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or even when you need a no-fuss meal that feels like a special occasion.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
What is the best way to prepare Chicken and Noodles in a Crock Pot for a flavorful and tender result?
The best way to prepare Chicken and Noodles in a Crock Pot is to first brown your chicken pieces in a bit of oil or butter, then add diced onions, garlic, and any vegetables you prefer (like bell peppers or carrots). Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to the crock pot. Add a flavorful broth, pasta, and a mix of seasonings like salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and a touch of Italian seasoning. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours to ensure the noodles are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
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Can I use any type of chicken for this recipe, or should I use a specific cut?
You can use any type of chicken, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for even cooking and tenderness. Chicken breasts are leaner and absorb flavors better, while thighs stay juicier. If using chicken breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Avoid using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken as it won’t cook further in the crock pot.
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How do I avoid making my Chicken and Noodles too mushy or dry?
To prevent your Chicken and Noodles from becoming mushy or dry, follow these tips: – Use a high-quality broth or water and avoid adding too much liquid initially. – Cook on low heat for a longer duration (6-8 hours) instead of high heat (3-4 hours), which can break down noodles too quickly. – Stir in a bit of cornstarch or flour mixed with cold water before adding the noodles to help thicken the sauce slightly. – Avoid overcrowding the crock pot—add ingredients gradually to allow proper cooking and even distribution of heat. – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it.
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What are some great seasoning combinations to enhance the flavor of Chicken and Noodles in the Crock Pot?
Enhance the flavor with these seasoning combinations: – Classic Italian: Add 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp red pepper flakes, and a pinch of black pepper. – Spiced Garlic: Use 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp dried thyme, and a dash of cayenne. – Lemon-Herb: Mix 1 tsp dried parsley, ½ tslow lemon zest, ½ tsp dried dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. – Asian-Inspired: Combine 1 tsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, ½ tsp ginger powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of black pepper. – Simple & Savory: Use 1 tsp dried rosemary, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp salt, and a generous pinch of black pepper.
Don’t be afraid to adjust to your taste preferences!
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How do I adjust the cooking time for different types of noodles?
Cooking times can vary based on the type of noodles you use. Here’s how to adjust them: – Pasta (Spaghetti, Fettuccine, etc.): Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles 30-45 minutes before serving to prevent overcooking. – Penne or Rigatoni: These hold their shape better, so you can add them earlier (about 1 hour before serving) and cook for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. – Macaroni or Elbow Macaroni: Similar to pasta, add them 30-45 minutes before serving, cooking for 5-7 hours on low or 2-4 hours on high. – Rice Noodles or Glass Noodles: These can be delicate, so cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Add them 1 hour before serving to prevent breaking. – Egg Noodles: Cook on low for 5-7 hours or high for 2-3 hours, adding them 1 hour before serving to ensure they stay firm.
