Introduction
Hearty Chicken & Noodles with Veggies is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold days or when you need a warm, filling meal. This crockpot recipe is easy to prepare, packed with tender chicken, flavorful egg noodles, and a medley of vegetables. The rich, creamy sauce is made with chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and a touch of spices, making this dish both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a simple dinner idea, this one-pot wonder is sure to please.
Overview of the Recipe
This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of chicken and noodles in a creamy, savory sauce. The addition of mixed vegetables not only adds color and texture but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish. Cooking everything in a crockpot means minimal effort and maximum flavor, as the chicken slowly cooks to tender perfection and absorbs all the rich flavors from the broth and seasonings. The dish is finished off with frozen egg noodles, which cook right in the sauce, making this a true one-pot meal.
History and Origin
Chicken and noodles is a classic American dish with roots in home-cooked, comfort food traditions. It’s often associated with Midwestern cuisine, where hearty, filling dishes are popular, especially in the winter months. This dish likely evolved from chicken noodle soup, a beloved staple in many households, but with a thicker, more substantial twist. By using a crockpot, this recipe stays true to the idea of slow-cooked comfort food, allowing the flavors to develop fully over time.
Ingredients
- 2 large frozen chicken breasts
- 1 (32 oz) container of 50% less sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet of chicken gravy mix
- 1 family-size can of cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 stick of butter
- 1 (24 oz) pack of Reames frozen egg noodles
- 1 (10 oz) bag of frozen mixed vegetables
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- A sprinkle of dried parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot:
- Begin by placing 2 large frozen chicken breasts into the bottom of your crockpot. There’s no need to thaw the chicken; cooking from frozen allows the meat to absorb the flavors as it slowly cooks.
- Add the Base Ingredients:
- Pour a 32 oz container of 50% less sodium chicken broth over the chicken breasts.
- Add 1 family-size can of cream of chicken soup, 1 packet of chicken gravy mix, and 1/2 stick of butter to the crockpot.
- Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and a sprinkle of dried parsley.
- Stir everything together to combine, ensuring the chicken breasts are covered with the creamy mixture.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on high for approximately 5 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook thoroughly and become tender enough to shred easily.
- Shred the Chicken:
- After 5 hours, check that the chicken is fully cooked by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. The meat should fall apart easily and blend well with the creamy sauce.
- Add Noodles and Vegetables:
- Once the chicken is shredded, add the entire 24 oz pack of Reames frozen egg noodles and the 10 oz bag of frozen mixed vegetables to the crockpot.
- Stir the mixture well to combine the noodles and vegetables with the chicken and sauce.
- Final Cooking Stage:
- Continue cooking on high for an additional hour, or until the noodles are tender and the vegetables are heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together and to ensure even cooking.
- Serve:
- Once the noodles and vegetables are cooked to your liking, your hearty chicken and noodles dish is ready to serve. Ladle the hot mixture into bowls and enjoy!
Serving
This dish serves approximately 6-8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Serve the hearty chicken and noodles in deep bowls, allowing everyone to savor the creamy sauce and tender chicken. Pair this meal with warm, buttery biscuits or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Hearty Chicken & Noodles with Veggies is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Biscuits: Serve with freshly baked biscuits for a classic comfort food combination.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside additional steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli for extra greens.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra hearty meal, pair with creamy mashed potatoes.
Variations of the Recipe
This recipe is flexible and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Vegetable Variations: You can use any combination of frozen or fresh vegetables, such as peas, carrots, green beans, or corn.
- Different Noodles: Substitute the egg noodles with other pasta types, such as rotini, penne, or even gluten-free noodles, for a different texture.
- Lighter Version: For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream of chicken soup and reduce the amount of butter used.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage, to change up the flavor profile.
Health Benefits Notes
- High in Protein: This dish is rich in protein from the chicken, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Includes Vegetables: The mixed vegetables add essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.
- Comfort Food: While this is a comfort food dish, using low-sodium broth and cream of chicken soup, along with controlling portion sizes, can make it a healthier option.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh chicken breasts instead of frozen? A: Yes, you can use fresh chicken breasts. Reduce the initial cooking time to about 3-4 hours on high, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred.
Q: Can I make this dish on the stovetop instead of in a crockpot? A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the stovetop. Cook the chicken in a large pot over medium heat, adding the broth, soup, and seasonings. Once the chicken is cooked, shred it, then add the noodles and vegetables and simmer until tender.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: What other types of noodles can I use? A: You can use a variety of noodles, including rotini, penne, or even homemade noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodles used.
Q: How do I prevent the noodles from getting too soft? A: To avoid overly soft noodles, add them towards the end of the cooking process and check frequently until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Conclusion
Hearty Chicken & Noodles with Veggies is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, flavorful egg noodles, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce. This easy-to-make crockpot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal. With its simple ingredients and customizable options, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it hot with a side of biscuits or a fresh salad, and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of this classic dish.