crockpot chicken and noodles recipe
The Best crockpot chicken and noodles recipe
I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. It works for everyday dinners when I’m just too tired to cook from scratch, but it also shines when I want to impress guests or make a special meal for a family gathering. The broth base is so rich and savory that it makes the noodles taste even better, and the chicken stays juicy and tender without needing extra marinating. Plus, the health benefits are pretty solid—lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the veggies if you add them, and whole grains if you use brown rice or whole wheat noodles. It’s not just filling; it’s balanced, and that’s what I aim for in my cooking. My husband and kids both swear by it, and honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever find a dish that does it quite the same way. It’s that reliable, that easy, and that delicious.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
A comforting, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, creamy noodles, and a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for a quick and easy dinner. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (e.g., penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup (240ml) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (28 oz / 800g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Remove and set aside. -
2
In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until soft (about 3 minutes). Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 2 minutes. -
3
Transfer the sauce to the slow cooker. Add cooked chicken breasts, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine. -
4
Cook on LOW for 2 hours or on HIGH for 1 hour. Stir occasionally if using HIGH setting. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. -
5
While the slow cooker is cooking, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
6
Once the sauce is ready, stir in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and mix well. -
7
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a lower-carb option.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
1. What is the best type of chicken to use for crockpot chicken and noodles?
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Chicken thighs stay juicier and hold up better in the slow cooker, while breasts can become dry if overcooked. If you prefer a more flavorful dish, thighs are generally preferred.
2. How long should I cook the chicken and noodles in the crockpot?
For chicken thighs, cook on Low for 5-6 hours or High for 3-4 hours. For chicken breasts, cook on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2.5-3 hours. Always check the noodles in the last 30 minutes to ensure they are tender but not mushy. Stir in the sauce and broth at the halfway mark to distribute flavors evenly.
3. Can I make this recipe with instant noodles or regular pasta?
Yes! You can use either instant noodles (like ramen or cup noodles) or regular pasta (like penne, rotini, or spaghetti). If using regular pasta, cook it separately in boiling water for 8-10 minutes before adding it to the crockpot with the broth. Instant noodles can go directly into the crockpot with the broth.
4. What ingredients should I add to enhance the flavor of this dish?
To boost flavor, consider adding:
– Garlic, onions, or shallots (sautéed first for extra depth)
– Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves (removed before serving)
– Spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning
– A splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or hot sauce for umami
– A pinch of red pepper flakes or black pepper for heat
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes! This dish tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, transfer the crockpot chicken and noodles to a microwave-safe dish and warm on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway, or heat in a pot over medium heat until hot. Avoid overcooking to prevent noodles from turning mushy.
