Ingredients Breakdown:
- 2 cans of Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz each)
- This acts as the base of the creamy sauce that will envelop the chicken and noodles. The creaminess from the soup helps thicken the broth and adds a rich flavor that is essential to this dish. Some people prefer using cream of mushroom soup as an alternative, but cream of chicken works best for that traditional flavor.
- 2 cans of Chicken Broth (15 oz each)
- Chicken broth is key for making a flavorful base and providing enough liquid for the chicken to cook in. The broth will also contribute to the overall taste and texture of the final dish. For a richer flavor, you can opt for low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your salt intake or prefer to control the seasoning.
- 1 stick of Butter (or Margarine) (1/2 cup)
- The butter is what makes the dish incredibly moist and adds a nice richness. It also helps to tenderize the chicken and give it a smooth, velvety texture when combined with the broth and soup.
- 1 lb Chicken Breasts (Fresh or Frozen)
- Chicken breasts are the protein of choice for this dish because they cook well in the crockpot and shred easily after hours of slow cooking. You can use fresh chicken breasts or frozen chicken breasts—both work well, but if you’re using frozen chicken, you don’t need to thaw it beforehand.
- 1 Package of Frozen Egg Noodles (24 oz)
- Egg noodles are a classic choice for chicken and noodles, and the frozen variety works perfectly in the crockpot because it won’t overcook or become mushy as it would in stovetop recipes. Reames is a popular brand, but feel free to use any brand of frozen egg noodles you like. These noodles cook up tender, and the starches help thicken the sauce as they cook.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Layering the Ingredients:
- Step 1.1: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. If you’re using frozen chicken, you can place it in the crockpot straight from the freezer—no need to thaw it first. The slow cooking will defrost and cook it perfectly.
- Step 1.2: Pour the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup over the chicken. This liquid mixture will create the base for the sauce and ensure that the chicken stays moist throughout cooking. You don’t need to stir yet; the broth and soup will mix naturally as the dish cooks.
- Step 1.3: Add the stick of butter. Simply cut it into pieces and scatter it on top of the chicken and broth. The butter will melt into the sauce, enriching the flavor and helping to tenderize the chicken.
- Slow Cooking:
- Step 2.1: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set the cooker to low for 6-7 hours. The low and slow cooking method allows the chicken to become tender and shred easily. While it’s cooking, the butter will dissolve into the broth, and the cream of chicken soup will thicken the mixture.
- Step 2.2: No need to stir while the chicken is cooking—it’s best to let it cook undisturbed during this time. Stirring too early may break up the chicken or disrupt the broth’s consistency.
- Step 2.3: As the hours go by, the chicken will cook through, and the house will start to smell amazing! The texture of the chicken should be very tender and almost falling apart after the full cooking time.
- Shredding the Chicken:
- Step 3.1: After the chicken has cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot. You’ll want to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. It’s incredibly easy to shred after this long, slow cooking time. The chicken will likely be so tender that it pulls apart effortlessly.
- Step 3.2: Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot and stir it into the broth mixture. At this point, you should taste the broth and chicken, and feel free to add salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder if you want a bit more seasoning. Some also like to add a touch of chicken seasoning or dried thyme for extra flavor.
- Adding the Frozen Noodles:
- Step 4.1: Now, add your frozen egg noodles directly into the crockpot. No need to thaw or pre-cook them! The noodles will absorb the liquid as they cook, and the starches will help thicken the sauce.
- Step 4.2: Stir the noodles into the broth and ensure that they’re submerged. Cover the crockpot again and set the timer for 2 more hours on low heat.
- Step 4.3: Every 30 minutes, stir the noodles to ensure they’re cooking evenly and not sticking to the sides. If you feel the noodles are getting too thick or sticky, feel free to add a little more chicken broth to keep things smooth and creamy. You can also adjust the liquid consistency to your liking, depending on whether you prefer a soupier or thicker dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of bread: A warm, crusty bread or some buttery rolls make the perfect accompaniment to scoop up the creamy broth.
- Add veggies: If you want to make this dish a bit more balanced, add some frozen peas, carrots, or corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking to incorporate extra flavors and nutrients.
- Top with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or even green onions can elevate the dish’s appearance and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken & Noodles:
- Frozen Chicken Tip: If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken once you shred it. The safe cooking temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C). If you use a meat thermometer, this ensures the chicken is properly cooked.
- Creamy Texture: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can stir in a half cup of sour cream or cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give the sauce a richer, tangier flavor and a smooth texture.
- Thickening: If the dish is too watery after adding the noodles, you can add a tablespoon or two of flour or cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce. Alternatively, let the crockpot cook with the lid off for a little longer to let some of the liquid evaporate and thicken the sauce naturally.
- Leftovers: This recipe makes a lot, so it’s great for leftovers! The flavors continue to develop and it keeps well in the fridge for a few days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Conclusion:
This Crockpot Chicken & Noodles recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a simple, hearty meal with minimal effort. The slow-cooked chicken becomes tender, the noodles soak up the creamy broth, and it’s a meal the whole family will love. Plus, it’s easy to adjust with added vegetables or seasonings to suit your preferences.