If you’re searching for a simple, hearty, and comforting meal that practically cooks itself, this Crockpot Chicken and Noodles recipe is the answer. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a creamy, savory dish that warms the soul. Perfect for busy weeknights, chilly days, or whenever you need a bowl of comfort, this recipe delivers all the flavors of homemade chicken soup — in a thick, creamy, noodle-filled version.
Made with tender chicken, frozen egg noodles, and a rich cream of chicken soup base, this dish turns a few pantry staples into a satisfying, family-friendly meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crockpot recipe is all about ease and flavor. It requires no fancy cooking skills — just dump, cook, stir, and enjoy. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, infusing the chicken and noodles with deep, savory goodness. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use whatever chicken you have on hand, whether it’s frozen, fresh, or leftover.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make the perfect Crockpot Chicken and Noodles:
- 2 cans of cream of chicken soup
- 1 stick of butter (unsalted or salted, depending on preference)
- 1 packet of frozen egg noodles
- 1 chicken breast (frozen, boiled, shredded, or leftover)
- 2 cans of chicken broth
That’s it — five simple ingredients that come together to create pure comfort in a bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Start by placing your chicken breast, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and butter into your slow cooker. The butter adds richness and flavor, while the soups and broth form a creamy base that thickens beautifully as it cooks.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken
Set your crockpot to low heat and cook for 6–7 hours. During this time, the chicken becomes tender and infused with all the delicious flavors from the broth and soup mixture.
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. It should pull apart easily and blend perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add the Noodles
After shredding the chicken, add the frozen egg noodles to the crockpot. Stir well so that the noodles are fully submerged in the sauce.
Continue cooking for another 2 hours on low heat, stirring every 30 minutes. This helps prevent the noodles from sticking and ensures even cooking. The sauce will thicken as the noodles absorb the flavors, creating that classic creamy texture everyone loves.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the noodles are tender and the sauce has thickened, your Crockpot Chicken and Noodles is ready to serve. Spoon it into bowls and serve hot. It’s a full meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
- Use leftover chicken: Rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works great and saves time.
- Add veggies: For extra nutrition, stir in frozen peas, carrots, or corn during the last hour of cooking.
- Adjust thickness: If the mixture gets too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
- Season to taste: The soup and broth add salt, but you can always season with pepper, garlic powder, or a dash of poultry seasoning for more depth.
- Cook on low: Slow cooking helps the flavors blend and keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Variations to Try
- Creamy Mushroom Version: Replace one can of cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Herbed Chicken and Noodles: Add thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an aromatic twist.
- Vegetable Boost: Add diced celery, onions, and carrots at the start for a stew-like texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken directly in the crockpot. Just ensure it cooks for at least 7 hours on low or 4 hours on high until it reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F or 74°C).
2. Can I cook it on high instead of low?
You can cook on high for 3–4 hours, but for best results and the most tender chicken, the low-and-slow method is preferred.
3. What kind of noodles work best?
Frozen egg noodles are ideal because they hold up well during slow cooking and absorb the sauce perfectly. Dry noodles can be used in a pinch but may require additional broth.
4. How can I make it thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the crockpot cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. For a thinner sauce, add extra chicken broth or a splash of milk.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but keep in mind that noodles can soften slightly after freezing. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly on the stove or in the microwave.
6. How long will it last in the fridge?
Stored properly in a sealed container, it will keep for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Chicken and Noodles recipe is pure comfort food — warm, creamy, and full of flavor. With minimal prep and just five simple ingredients, it’s the perfect solution for busy days or when you want a meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl.
Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe never disappoints. Every spoonful delivers tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce that brings everyone back for seconds.
Serve it with a sprinkle of black pepper, a handful of fresh herbs, or a slice of buttered bread — and enjoy the taste of home-cooked comfort with almost no effort.