recipe for chicken and noodles in crock pot
The Best recipe for chicken and noodles in crock pot
Oh, this chicken and noodles in the crock pot is one of those recipes that just makes everything better—no matter the day. I’ve been making it since my kids were little, and honestly, there’s nothing like coming home after a long day and having a pot of this simmering away while the smell fills the house. It’s comforting, hearty, and so easy to customize, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family for dinner. My kids used to insist on it every single week, and honestly? I didn’t argue. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl—warm, satisfying, and just the right amount of cozy without being too heavy.
The crock pot does all the work for you, so there’s no stress, and the flavors meld together perfectly over time. It’s not just a quick fix; it’s a meal that tastes even better the next day because the chicken and noodles soak up all that delicious broth. I love how it’s flexible—you can adjust the seasoning, swap in different veggies, or even make it lighter with whole wheat noodles if you’re watching what you eat. And let’s be honest, there’s something about a big pot of this that makes even the pickiest eaters happy. My kids would beg for seconds, and honestly? I never turned them down. Plus, it’s got all the nutrients you need—protein from the chicken, fiber from the noodles and veggies, and a good dose of vitamins from the herbs and spices. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good inside and out. Whether you’re feeding a family for a big holiday dinner or just a regular weeknight, this is the kind of dish that never disappoints.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
A comforting, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, creamy noodles, and a savory tomato-based sauce, all prepared effortlessly in a crock pot. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup (150g) frozen peas
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if making baked noodles (optional). Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
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2 In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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3 In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft (about 3 minutes). Add tomato sauce, chicken broth, heavy cream, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
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4 Add cooked chicken, peas, and cooked pasta to the crock pot. Stir well to combine. Cook on LOW for 3 hours or HIGH for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
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5 If using baked noodles, mix cooked noodles with butter and Parmesan cheese before adding to the crock pot. Stir in the sauce mixture and cook as directed above.
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6 Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Crock Pot
- Large skillet or pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles Works
This Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles recipe is always a reliable choice for any occasion because it’s simple enough to make ahead and reheats beautifully, so you don’t have to stress about last-minute cooking. It’s hearty and comforting, perfect for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal without fussing over timing. Plus, it’s customizable—just swap in your favorite veggies or seasonings to keep things fresh, and it always comes out tender and flavorful, no matter how often you make it.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
How long should I cook the chicken and noodles in the crock pot for the best texture?
For a tender and juicy chicken, cook the mixture on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. If you prefer softer noodles, add a splash of water or broth and cook an additional 30-60 minutes. Always check the noodles’ doneness by tasting a bite—they should be al dente (firm to the bite).
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Can I use any type of pasta in this crock pot recipe, or should I stick to specific noodles?
While classic elbow macaroni works great, you can experiment with other shapes like rotini, penne, or even spaghetti. For a creamier sauce, choose shorter noodles like macaroni or shells. If using longer noodles (like fettuccine), reduce cooking time slightly to avoid mushiness.
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What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from getting dry or rubbery in the crock pot?
To keep chicken moist, sear it in a little oil or butter before adding it to the crock pot—this adds flavor and helps retain juices. Avoid overcrowding the pot, and if using bone-in chicken, let it sit in the sauce for the last 30 minutes to absorb extra flavor. A splash of broth or cream can also help keep it tender.
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Should I add the noodles before or after cooking the chicken in the crock pot?
Add the noodles after the chicken is fully cooked (or nearly done) to prevent them from turning mushy. First, cook the chicken and broth until it’s tender, then stir in the noodles and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on LOW or 10-15 minutes on HIGH. This ensures they stay firm.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it safely in the crock pot?
Yes! This dish reheats beautifully in the crock pot. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat on LOW for 2-3 hours or HIGH for 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a splash of water or broth if the sauce looks too thick. For extra flavor, sprinkle a little garlic powder or fresh herbs before reheating.
