Introduction
Comfort food at its best, this Comforting Chicken & Noodles Crock Pot recipe brings warmth and joy to any table. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this dish requires minimal effort with maximum flavor. Let’s dive into the details of this hearty recipe that is sure to satisfy everyone.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
– 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup carrots, sliced
– 1 cup celery, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups egg noodles (or your choice of pasta)
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream or 1 can cream of chicken soup (optional, for added creaminess)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes is all you need to prep this delightful dish, making it a quick and easy option for you and your family.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes.
Yield: Serves 6-8 people, perfect for family gatherings or meal prep for the week.
This recipe for Comforting Chicken & Noodles in the Crock Pot allows you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal hassle, making it a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. Grab your ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the Crock Pot. Scatter the sliced carrots, celery, and chopped onions over the chicken.
Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are fully submerged. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the top. If using heavy cream or cream of chicken soup for added creaminess, add it at this stage or stir it in later.
Slow Cook:
Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Crock Pot.
Add Noodles:
Add the egg noodles to the pot, stirring them into the broth. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the comforting chicken and noodles into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Additional Vegetables:
Feel free to add peas, corn, or any of your favorite vegetables for more flavor and nutrition.
Thicker Broth:
For a thicker consistency, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Customization:
Customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices, such as rosemary or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Utilize the slow cooking method by cooking the chicken and vegetables at a low temperature for an extended period. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and results in tender chicken that shreds easily.
Shredding Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it. This technique ensures the chicken integrates well with the broth and noodles, providing a comforting texture in each bite.
Cooking Noodles
Add the egg noodles during the last stage of cooking. This technique allows the noodles to absorb the flavors of the broth while becoming tender, enhancing the overall dish.
Thickening Broth
To thicken the broth, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water. Add this mixture during the final cooking phase to achieve a richer consistency.
Customizing Flavors
Feel free to customize the dish by incorporating additional herbs and spices. Experimenting with different flavors can give a unique twist to the comforting chicken and noodles.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
What can I substitute for egg noodles?
You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine, macaroni, or whole wheat noodles.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free noodles and ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, corn, or any other favorite vegetables to enhance nutrition and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This Comforting Chicken & Noodles Crock Pot recipe is a delightful and hassle-free way to enjoy a hearty meal. The combination of tender chicken and flavorful noodles makes it a perfect family dish for any occasion, providing warmth and comfort with minimal effort.
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