Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles

Name: Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup celery, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz egg noodles; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Warm Plate Recipes Quick Comfort

This comforting Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and hearty meal with minimal effort.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:18:20.417Z

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles recipe is a family favorite. The tender chicken, combined with savory broth and egg noodles, creates a dish that warms the soul and satisfies hunger.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Rich and savory broth that enhances every bite
Convenient one-pot meal with minimal cleanup
Perfectly cooked noodles that soak up all the flavors

      

A Comforting Classic

Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles is a classic dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. It’s the kind of meal that brings families together, offering a hearty and satisfying option for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked noodles creates a delightful balance that is sure to please everyone at the table.

This recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Whether you prefer peas, corn, or even a splash of cream for extra richness, this dish can adapt to your tastes. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover veggies or to sneak in some extra nutrients for the family.

Effortless Cooking with a Slow Cooker

One of the greatest advantages of using a slow cooker is the convenience it offers. Simply toss in your ingredients, set it, and let it do the work for you. This method not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes like it has been simmering for hours.

The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender and moist. As it cooks, it absorbs the flavors of the broth and seasonings, creating a dish that’s bursting with savory goodness. Plus, the minimal cleanup is a bonus that busy cooks will appreciate!

Perfect for Meal Prep

Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for future meals. This makes it a great choice for those looking to save time during the week or for busy families who want to ensure they have nutritious meals ready to go.

When stored properly, this dish can last in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for several months. Reheating is simple; just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. This ensures that you can enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish even on the busiest of days.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Noodles

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, sliced
1 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz egg noodles
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Add Vegetables and Broth

Add the sliced carrots, celery, onion, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Add Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker and stir. Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your comforting meal!

This dish is even better the next day!

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store your Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help to maintain freshness and prevent any unwanted freezer burn if you choose to freeze it. When stored in the refrigerator, it can last for up to four days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

For reheating, simply place the desired portion in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you find the noodles have absorbed too much broth, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Alternatively, you can reheat portions in the microwave for a quick meal.

Pairing Suggestions

While Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles is a complete meal on its own, you can elevate your dining experience with some delightful pairings. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly. The freshness of the salad adds a nice contrast and balances the hearty flavors.

For a cozy evening, consider serving this dish with warm, crusty bread or homemade rolls. Dipping bread into the savory broth is a comforting experience that enhances the overall meal. A glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling water with lemon also makes for a refreshing accompaniment.

Variations to Try

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. For a creamy version, add a can of cream of chicken soup or a splash of heavy cream just before serving. This will give the dish a rich and velvety texture that’s simply irresistible.

If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey for a delicious variation, especially around the holidays. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple that you can enjoy in many different ways!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 hour.

→ What can I substitute for egg noodles?

You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure that the chicken broth is gluten-free.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.