chicken noodles crockpot recipe
The Best chicken noodles crockpot recipe
Chicken noodle soup is one of those meals that feels like a hug in a bowl—simple, comforting, and always a favorite in my house. I love this crockpot version because it’s hands-off, meaning I can spend my mornings or evenings doing something else while the dish cooks itself. There’s something so satisfying about pulling out a pot of warm noodles and chicken, smelling the savory broth, and knowing it’s packed with flavor without any fuss. My kids—especially my picky eaters—will often beg for seconds because it’s just so good, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s filling, easy to customize with extra veggies or herbs, and it never fails to make everyone feel cozy.
This recipe is perfect for so many reasons. It’s great for meal prep—make a big batch and freeze portions for busy days when you don’t have time to cook. It’s also ideal for gatherings, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, because it’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without being overwhelming. And let’s not forget the health perks: lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the whole wheat noodles (if you use them), and plenty of vitamins from the carrots, celery, and onions. It’s not just a meal; it’s a balanced way to eat something delicious without feeling like you’re sacrificing nutrition. Plus, the crockpot makes it so easy to keep everything warm while you’re out of the kitchen, so no one ever has to wait for their food to be ready. It’s a win all around.
Easy Crockpot Chicken Noodles
A comforting, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, creamy noodles, and savory broth. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 8 oz fettuccine or egg noodles
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
👨🍳Directions
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1 Prep the chicken: Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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2 Cook the noodles: Boil noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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3 Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft (~3 mins). Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for 2 mins.
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4 Combine in crockpot: Transfer chicken to the crockpot. Pour sauce over chicken. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and half the cheddar cheese. Secure lid.
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5 Cook: Set crockpot to LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Stir occasionally. Add noodles and remaining cheese; mix well.
🔧Equipment
- Crockpot
- Large skillet
- Kitchen shears
- Colander
- Mixing bowls
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Crockpot Chicken Noodles Works
This Chicken Noodles Crockpot recipe is one of those reliable go-tos for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal that feels like a special occasion without the fuss. It’s simple enough to make ahead and reheat, so you can serve it to your family without stressing over last-minute prep, and the tender chicken and smooth noodles always taste even better when everything cooks together slowly. Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings—whether you’re feeding kids, hosting a potluck, or just making dinner with your husband—it’s always a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require fancy skills.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Chicken Noodles
What is the best way to prepare the chicken noodles in the crockpot for maximum tenderness?
To ensure maximum tenderness, start by browning the chicken pieces in a pan (about 3-4 minutes per side) before adding them to the crockpot. This step adds flavor and helps break down the meat slightly. Next, use a high-quality broth or water, and add aromatics like onions, garlic, and carrots to create a flavorful base. Cooking on the “low” setting for 6-7 hours or the “high” setting for 3-4 hours should give you perfectly tender chicken and al dente noodles.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients in the chicken noodle crockpot recipe?
Yes, you can make some substitutions while keeping the dish delicious. For instance, you can use a mix of whole wheat or rice noodles instead of egg noodles. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a mix of mushrooms and chickpeas. If you prefer a different broth, use a homemade vegetable or beef broth. Just be mindful of the cooking time to ensure the noodles and meat are cooked through properly.
How do thicken the broth in the crockpot chicken noodle recipe if it becomes too thin?
If your crockpot chicken noodle broth becomes too thin, you can thicken it by using one of the following methods: 1. Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2-3 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the crockpot. Cook on “high” for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens. 2. Crockpot Setting: If the broth is still too thin after cooking, you can transfer it to a pot and simmer on the stove, adding a bit of flour or arrowroot powder mixed with a little cold water to create a slurry and thicken it. 3. Noodles: If the noodles have softened too much and the broth is watery, you can remove them from the crockpot, blend a portion of the broth with some noodles to create a paste, and then stir it back into the crockpot.
What are the best crockpot settings for cooking chicken noodles?
For the best results, use these settings: – Low Setting: 6-7 hours (ideal for large batches or when you have plenty of time) – High Setting: 3-4 hours (best for smaller batches or if you need the dish quicker)
Always check the noodles and chicken halfway through cooking to ensure they reach your desired tenderness. If the noodles are still firm, extend the cooking time by 30-60 minutes.
Can I make this chicken noodle crockpot recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken noodle crockpot recipe ahead of time and reheat it safely. Store the cooked mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, transfer the mixture to the crockpot and cook on the “low” setting for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave in 30-60 second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating. Adding a splash of broth or water can help maintain moisture.
