chicken and noodle crock pot recipe

The Best chicken and noodle crock pot recipe

Oh, this chicken and noodles recipe is one of those rare dishes that just makes everything better—no matter the occasion. There’s something about slow-cooked chicken that’s so tender and flavorful, and when you pair it with fresh pasta, it’s like a warm hug for your taste buds. I’ve been making this for years, and it’s always a hit with my family, especially on busy weeknights when I need something hearty but still simple. My kids love it because it’s comforting, and honestly, I don’t think they’d complain if it were on the table every single night—though I’d probably lose my mind if I let that happen.

This recipe isn’t just quick; it’s efficient. The crock pot does all the work, so by the time dinner rolls around, I’ve got time to prep something else or just relax. Plus, it’s flexible—you can adjust the seasonings or even swap out the noodles if you’re feeling adventurous. And let’s be honest, there’s nothing better than a big bowl of noodles with juicy chicken and a side of veggies tossed in. It’s filling enough for a family meal but light enough that it doesn’t weigh anyone down. The health benefits are nice too—it’s got protein from the chicken, fiber from the veggies, and carbs from the noodles, so it’s not just a quick fix, but a balanced meal. And honestly, the crock pot makes it so easy to keep leftovers warm, so you’re not starting from scratch the next day. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a little treat without being one.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodle Soup

4.7 from 1679 votes

A comforting, hearty soup featuring tender chicken, creamy noodles, and savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for a cozy meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time2 hours

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time2 hours 15 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Broth and Sauce

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Noodles

• 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with thyme, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken from pot and set aside.
2. 2 In the same pot, add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. 3 Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaf, and remaining seasonings. Stir well and transfer mixture to the slow cooker. Add chicken back into the slow cooker.
4. 4 Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shreds.
5. 5 While the chicken cooks, boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. 6 Once chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks. Stir shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Add heavy cream and Parmesan (if using) and mix well.
7. 7 Return the drained pasta to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 15–20 minutes on LOW until pasta is heated through.

🔧Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large pot
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14💛Saturated Fat: 6❤️Cholesterol: 80🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 50🥦Dietary Fiber: 4🍬Sugars: 8🥩Protein: 45

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine while sautéing the vegetables.,Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.,Adjust seasoning to taste; add more salt or herbs if needed.,Leftovers can be reheated and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

This chicken and noodles crock pot recipe is always a reliable choice for family gatherings because it’s simple to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute hosting. The tender chicken and hearty noodles stay perfectly cooked while you’re busy with other tasks, and it serves a crowd without needing extra effort. It’s a comforting dish that feels special without being complicated, so it never disappoints at holiday dinners or casual get-togethers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodle Soup

1. What is the best type of chicken to use in a crock pot chicken and noodle soup?

The best type of chicken for this recipe is boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They are flavorful, tender, and hold up well in the slow cooker. If you prefer breasts, make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

2. How do I prepare the noodles to avoid them turning mushy?

To prevent your noodles from becoming mushy, cook them separately in boiling water for 3-4 minutes (depending on the type of noodles) before adding them to the crock pot. Drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process, then add them to the soup at the end of cooking.

3. Can I use any type of broth or can I make my own?

You can use either store-bought chicken broth or make your own homemade version for a more flavorful result. For homemade broth, simmer chicken bones, vegetables (like carrots, celery, and onions), and herbs (like thyme and bay leaves) for about 30-45 minutes, then strain and use the liquid.

4. How long should I cook the chicken and noodle soup in the slow cooker?

For the best results, cook the soup on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. If you’re using chicken thighs, they should be fully cooked through, and the noodles should be tender but still hold their shape.

5. What can I substitute if I don’t have chicken broth? If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth, water, or even a combination of both. For extra flavor, add a splash of chicken bouillon powder or a bouillon cube dissolved in warm water. Just ensure the liquid is sufficient to cover the ingredients.