There’s nothing quite like coming home to the aromatic welcome of a Slow Cooker chicken noodle dish after a long day. This comfort food, ideal for busy families, provides a delicious dinner solution that’s both simple to prepare and delightful to eat. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and perfectly seasoned noodles, it becomes the ultimate meal solution everyone will love.
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Growing up, my grandma’s kitchen was always filled with the smell of homemade broths and slow-cooked meats. I remember entering her cozy kitchen after school, where she would have a pot of her famous Chicken Noodle Soup simmering on the stove. It was a tradition that brought our family together and something I’ve lovingly carried into my home. Preparing this slow cooker version feels like embracing a piece of my family’s culinary heritage while adapting it to fit our modern, hectic lifestyles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe not only nourishes the body but also comforts the soul. The convenience of using a Slow Cooker means you can simply set it and let it work its magic while attending to your daily tasks. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken becomes melt-in-the-mouth tender, and the flavors infuse perfectly, creating a harmonious balance with minimal effort. Ideal for weeknight meals or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dish will soon become a favorite staple in your household.
Ingredients Notes
To make this dish, you will need boneless chicken breasts, fresh carrots, celery, onions, egg noodles, and aromatic herbs like thyme and parsley. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can serve as a handy substitute. For added depth, consider using a rich Homemade Chicken stock. For those keeping an eye on sodium, opt for a low-sodium store-bought broth. Feel free to swap out egg noodles for any pasta shape you prefer.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them into the Slow Cooker.
Step 2
Add chopped carrots, celery, and onions over the chicken. Pour in the chicken stock until the ingredients are covered.
Step 3
Add thyme and parsley to the pot, ensuring they are submerged into the stock for optimal flavor distribution.
Step 4
Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
Step 5
About 20 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles and let them cook until tender while absorbing the rich flavors of the broth.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, transfer portions to freezer-safe bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or more broth to refresh the consistency.
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or rice. To introduce a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the cooking process. Vegetarians can substitute the chicken with cubed firm tofu and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a delightful alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting dish shines best when served hot, garnished with a sprinkling of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for cozy evenings at home or having friends over for an informal gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, using pre-cooked chicken is a great time-saver. Add it during the last hour of cooking just to warm it through. However, starting with raw chicken and allowing it to cook in the slow cooker tends to yield juicier results as the flavors meld together beautifully.
What can I do if my dish turns out too salty? If you find your dish is a tad too salty, add a cut potato to the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. The potato will absorb some of the excess salt. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
Are there any additional vegetables I can add? Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and can handle a variety of vegetables. Feel free to toss in green peas, corn, or spinach during the final few moments of cooking to keep the textures vibrant and the flavors fresh.
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Slow Cooker Chicken Noodles
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 8 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 4 oz egg noodles uncooked
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth, carrots, and celery.
- Cook on low for 4 hours.
- Add the egg noodles and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Shred the chicken and stir everything together before serving.
