Comforting Chicken & Noodles Crockpot

When you need a comforting and hearty meal that warms your soul, look no further than Chicken & Noodles made in the crockpot. This dish is the definition of comfort food, with tender chicken, velvety noodles, and a rich, savory broth that’s like a warm hug on a cold day. Plus, the crockpot does most of the work for you, making it a convenient option for busy days when you crave a home-cooked meal. So, let’s dive into the recipe and create a bowl of pure comfort that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Noodles:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 ounces wide egg noodles
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

For the Thickening Agent:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

Preparing the Crockpot:

1. Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot.
2. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, sliced celery, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper to the crockpot.
3. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, ensuring that the ingredients are fully submerged.

Cooking in the Crockpot:

4. Cover the crockpot and cook on the LOW setting for about 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Adding the Noodles:

6. About 20-30 minutes before serving, add the wide egg noodles to the crockpot. Stir well to ensure they are fully immersed in the broth.
7. If using frozen peas, add them at this stage as well.

Creating the Thickening Agent:

8. In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and water until it forms a smooth paste. This will be used to thicken the broth.

Thickening the Broth:

9. Gradually pour the flour-water mixture into the crockpot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
10. Cover the crockpot and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on the LOW setting to allow the broth to thicken.

Serving:

11. Taste the Chicken & Noodles and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.
12. Ladle the comforting Chicken & Noodles into bowls.

Variations and Tips

• Creamy Twist: For a creamier version, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking. Fresh parsley or a dash of paprika can add a delightful touch.
• Veggie Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, corn, or mushrooms to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.
• Homemade Broth: If you have homemade chicken broth, use it for an even richer flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated when you’re ready to enjoy. Just be sure to cook the noodles separately and add them to the broth when reheating to prevent them from becoming too soft.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

 

Chicken & Noodles made in the crockpot is a bowl of pure comfort that’s both convenient and delicious. With tender chicken, savory broth, and velvety noodles, it’s a meal that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re seeking solace on a chilly day or hosting a gathering with loved ones, this dish offers the kind of comfort that makes every moment special. So, let your crockpot do the work, savor the aroma as it simmers, and relish the embrace of a bowl of pure comfort. Enjoy!