Chicken And Noodles Crockpot

Name: Chicken And Noodles Crockpot
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless and skinless); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots (sliced); 1 cup celery (chopped); 1 onion (diced); 2 cups egg noodles; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Looking for a comforting meal that practically cooks itself? This chicken and noodles crockpot recipe is your answer! Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles come together in a simple, hassle-free dish. Just set it and forget it – the result is a delicious, warm meal that your whole family will love. Perfect for busy evenings or lazy weekends, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your home.

Ingredients

– 1 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup carrots, sliced
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cups egg noodles
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 20g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 35g protein. This value is based on standard ingredients and may vary with substitutes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery over the chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is submerged.
4. Season with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks.
7. Stir in the egg noodles and heavy cream.
8. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
9. Adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.
10. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier option. You can also use gluten-free noodles or add other vegetables like peas or green beans to enhance the dish.

Serving and Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s stored in a freezer-safe container.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness; always check for doneness.
Using too much broth may make the dish soupy; stick to the recommended amount.
Not shredding the chicken well can leave large chunks; ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Skipping the heavy cream will alter the dish’s creaminess; don’t omit it.
Forgetting to season can lead to bland flavors; taste as you go.

Helpful Tips

Use high-quality chicken broth for better flavor.
Prep ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
Experiment with herbs like rosemary or parsley for added flavor.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to extend the cooking time by about an hour to ensure they are fully cooked.

What if I don’t have egg noodles?

You can substitute with any pasta of your choice. Adjust cooking times according to the type of pasta used.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and cook it in the morning for a ready-to-eat meal when you return home.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can use low-fat cream, add more vegetables, or use whole-grain noodles to enhance nutritional value.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This chicken and noodles crockpot recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and comfort. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to satisfy your family. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite. Enjoy every bite!