This Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles is a warm and comforting dish that’s super easy to make. With juicy chicken, tasty noodles, and creamy sauce, it’s a hit for any dinner!
I love how I can throw everything in the pot and let it cook all day. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Plus, leftovers make for a great lunch the next day. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook down well and are easy to shred. If you’re on a budget, chicken thighs can be a delicious alternative and provide more flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. You can use homemade cream of chicken soup or substitute with cream of mushroom soup if you prefer a different taste.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is ideal to control the saltiness. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter option or if you’re cooking for non-chicken eaters.
Egg Noodles: Traditional egg noodles are best, but other pasta types like fettuccine or even gluten-free noodles can work too. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Sour Cream: This adds a rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
How Do I Get Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Shredding chicken might sound tricky, but it’s really an easy step if you follow this method. After cooking the chicken for 6-7 hours, it should fall apart nicely.
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart. If it resists, it might need a little more cooking time.
- Make sure to shred it directly over the broth and sauce in the crock pot. It helps keep everything moist and flavorful.
How Do I Ensure the Noodles Are Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the noodles properly in the crock pot can be a bit of a challenge, but you’ll get it with these tips:
- Add the egg noodles only after the chicken is shredded and back in the pot. This prevents them from overcooking.
- Stir the noodles well to coat them in the sauce. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cover and keep an eye on them; cooking on high for 30-45 minutes should be perfect.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 6 to 7 hours to cook in the crock pot. You just need around 15 minutes to prep, and then you can let it do its thing! Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. This will be the base of your tasty meal!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Once mixed, pour this creamy mixture over the chicken in the crock pot. It adds great flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily.
4. Shred the Chicken:
After cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Then, return the shredded chicken back to the pot. Don’t worry about any mess; it all comes together perfectly!
5. Add the Noodles:
Now, it’s time for the egg noodles! Add them directly to the crock pot, stirring gently to make sure the noodles are covered in the delicious sauce.
6. Cook the Noodles:
Cover the crock pot again and switch the setting to high. Cook for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until the noodles are soft and cooked through.
7. Mix in the Sour Cream:
Once the noodles are ready, stir in the sour cream until everything is nice and combined. Taste your mixture, and if you like, add a bit more salt or pepper to suit your taste!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, it’s time to serve your meal! Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious crock pot chicken and noodles!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to extend the cooking time. If using frozen, put the chicken in the crock pot directly and cook on low for about 8-9 hours. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make this dish lighter, consider using low-fat cream of chicken soup and substituting Greek yogurt for the sour cream. You can also add extra vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition and flavor!
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before. Mix the soup, broth, and spices in a bowl, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pour the mixture over the chicken in the crock pot and let it cook while you’re out!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if the noodles seem dry.
