Chicken and Noodles

My Go-To Chicken and Noodle Recipe: Perfect for Busy Weeknights

As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Finding quick, easy, and delicious meals that also stretch to feed my family for several days is a constant juggling act. That's why I developed this recipe for Chicken and Noodles – it's a lifesaver! I make a huge batch, portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and then I have delicious, homemade meals ready to go whenever I need them. No more stressful weeknight dinners wondering what to make! This recipe is incredibly versatile too; one day it’s a hearty comfort meal served over creamy mashed potatoes, and the next it transforms into a warming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup with just a little extra broth. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing me to focus on other tasks while the chicken simmers to perfection. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and flavorful broth is a winner in my home, even with my picky eaters. And, because I make such a large batch, it's a great meal prep option, freeing up my precious time during the busy week. The freezer is my best friend, always stocked with these ready-to-go meals!

Beyond the Basics: Adding Your Personal Touch

While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. I sometimes add different vegetables, like diced potatoes or green beans, depending on what’s on hand and in season. You can also adjust the herbs and spices to suit your preference; a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary would add a lovely depth of flavor. For those who prefer a spicier kick, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes would elevate the dish to another level. The possibilities are truly endless! I sometimes add a little bit of cream cheese when reheating, giving it a little creamy touch.

Serving Suggestions: From Comfort Food to Soup

The versatility of this Chicken and Noodle dish is truly remarkable. On a cold evening, it's the ultimate comfort food served over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. The creamy potatoes perfectly complement the rich, savory broth and tender chicken. On warmer days, or when I’m craving a lighter meal, I simply add a bit more chicken broth to create a delicious homemade chicken noodle soup. It's the perfect remedy for a busy day, a quick and easy lunch or a comforting dinner. The recipe is easily adaptable to the season and your preferences.

Making it Your Own: A Recipe for Every Occasion

This Chicken and Noodle recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to tailor it to your taste, add your own spin, and create a dish that reflects your personality. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be both adaptable and delicious. It is a perfect way to experiment with flavors and create your own signature dish, a recipe that you can proudly share with family and friends.

Conclusion: A Time-Saving, Flavorful Delight

In the whirlwind of daily life, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can be a challenge. This recipe for Chicken and Noodles is my solution – a delicious, versatile, and time-saving meal that fits into any busy schedule. The ease of preparation, the adaptability, and the ability to freeze leftovers make it a true kitchen staple. It is a testament to the fact that healthy, home-cooked meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming; they can be simple, delicious, and a source of comfort and joy for your family. So, give it a try and experience the convenience and deliciousness for yourself!

Step-by-step

• In a large slow cooker place the carrots, celery, and onion on the bottom of the cooker.
• Place the frozen chicken breasts on top.
• Sprinkle the salt, pepper, and basil over the chicken.
• Fill the cooker 1/2-2/3 full of water.
• Cook at 250 degrees for 8-10 hours or on high crock pot setting for 4 hours and then turn crock pot to low for an additional 4 hours.
• Take the cooked chicken out of the cooker onto a cutting board and strain the broth into a large stock pot being sure to save the vegetables.
• Place the vegetables back into the slow cooker.
• Turn the broth on high heat and set to a boil.
• In the meantime, make sure the vegetables are cut into bite-size pieces.
• Shred the chicken and place in the cooker with the vegetables.
• Add the noodles to the boiling broth and cook according to package directions.
• When noodles are tender add the entire pot with the noodles and chicken broth into the slow cooker with the vegetables and chicken.
• Stir thoroughly and heat through.
• Season to taste.
• Serve over mashed potatoes or add additional chicken broth to make homemade chicken noodle soup.
• Refrigerate leftovers and when cool place into gallon-sized zip lock bags and freeze until ready to use.