Comforting Chicken & Noodles Crock Pot Recipe

This creamy and hearty chicken and noodles dish is the ultimate comfort food that will warm your soul and fill your home with cozy aromas. It’s a no-fuss recipe that uses just a few simple ingredients but delivers big on flavor. With tender chicken and buttery noodles cooked to perfection in a rich, savory sauce, this is the kind of meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight. Let the crockpot do all the work, and enjoy a deliciously comforting dish with minimal effort.

Ingredients

2 cans cream of chicken soup
2 cans chicken broth (15 oz each)
1 stick butter or margarine
1 lb chicken breasts (fresh or frozen)
1 package frozen egg noodles (24 oz) — I used Reames for its hearty, homemade texture.

Directions

Layer the Ingredients
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
Pour in the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup over the chicken.
Top with the entire stick of butter.
Slow Cook the Chicken
Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6-7 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and infused with the savory flavors of the broth and soup.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Add the Noodles
Add the frozen egg noodles to the crockpot, stirring them gently into the chicken and sauce mixture.
Cook on low for an additional 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the noodles are tender and the sauce is thick and creamy, your comforting chicken and noodles are ready to serve. Dish up and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Helpful Tips

Butter Substitutes: If you’re looking to cut back on butter, try using margarine or a reduced-fat butter substitute for a lighter version.
Homemade Egg Noodles: If you prefer to make your own egg noodles, simply boil them separately and add them in at the end to prevent overcooking.
Shredding the Chicken: For a faster method, use a hand mixer on low speed to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot.
Add Vegetables: To make it a complete meal, toss in some frozen peas, carrots, or corn when adding the noodles.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore the creamy texture.

20 FAQs

Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and add extra moisture.
Can I use canned chicken?
Canned chicken is an option for a shortcut, but it won’t be as tender and flavorful as slow-cooked chicken breasts.
What other noodles can I use?
You can use dried egg noodles or pasta, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced carrots, celery, and peas make great additions.
Can I use homemade soup?
Yes, homemade cream of chicken soup can enhance the flavor even more.
What if I only have one can of cream of chicken soup?
Substitute the second can with cream of mushroom or celery for a unique twist.
What size crockpot should I use?
A 6-quart crockpot is ideal for this recipe.
Can I cook this on high?
Yes, but reduce the initial cooking time to 4 hours on high, then add the noodles for an additional 1 hour.
What if my noodles absorb too much liquid?
Add more chicken broth, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
How do I prevent sticking?
Stirring every 30 minutes helps prevent noodles from sticking to the sides.
Can I use dairy-free substitutes?
Yes, opt for dairy-free cream soup and margarine.
Can I use cooked chicken?
If using cooked chicken, add it during the last 30 minutes along with the noodles.
Can I use dried herbs?
Add a sprinkle of dried thyme, parsley, or rosemary for added flavor.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) if you want a thicker sauce.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but make sure your crockpot has enough capacity.
Can I add cheese?
Mixing in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan can elevate the dish.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free pasta.
Can I use a different type of butter?
Salted, unsalted, or herb-infused butter can all work.
Is it okay to use bouillon instead of broth?
Yes, dissolve bouillon in hot water as a substitute for broth.
Can I prep this ahead?
Assemble everything in the crockpot the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply turn it on and cook!

20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection

Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken, rather than frozen, provides better texture and flavor.
Homemade Stock: Swap store-bought broth for homemade chicken stock for a richer taste.
Add Seasoning Early: Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper before adding the broth.
Butter Quality: Use high-quality butter for a creamier sauce.
Sauté Aromatics: Sauté onions and garlic before adding to enhance depth.
Use a Splash of Milk: Add a splash of whole milk or heavy cream for extra creaminess.
Lemon Zest: A bit of lemon zest brightens up the rich flavors.
Don’t Overcook Noodles: Check the noodles at 90 minutes to ensure they’re not overcooked.
Herbs and Spices: A pinch of thyme and parsley can enhance the aroma.
Quality Noodles: Opt for thick, homestyle egg noodles for the best texture.
Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat ensures tender chicken.
Shred Chicken Thoroughly: Shred chicken finely for better sauce absorption.
Butter Placement: Placing butter on top allows it to melt evenly.
Mix Before Serving: Stir well before serving to evenly distribute the flavors.
Add Veggies Last: If adding vegetables, add them halfway through to prevent mushiness.
Broth vs. Water: Always use broth instead of water for more flavor.
Avoid Opening Lid: Opening the lid too often increases cooking time.
Let Rest: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.
Use an Immersion Blender: For a smoother sauce, blend a portion before adding noodles.
Top with Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.