Ingredients
- 24 ounces Frozen Egg Noodles: This type of noodle holds up well in slow cooking, providing a satisfying texture. Kluski noodles are a great alternative for a heartier bite.
- 10.5 ounce can of Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds a rich, creamy base to the broth.
- 10.5 ounce can of Cream of Celery Soup: Complements the cream of chicken with a mild celery flavor, enhancing the overall savoriness.
- 1/2 cup Salted Butter (1 stick): Infuses the dish with a buttery richness and helps meld the flavors.
- 32 ounces Chicken Broth: The liquid base for the soup, providing moisture and depth of flavor.
- 4 Large Boneless Chicken Breasts: A lean source of protein that shreds easily after slow cooking.
- Mixed Vegetables (optional): Adds color, texture, and nutrients. Use a blend of carrots, peas, and corn for a classic mix.
- 1 teaspoon Better Than Chicken Bouillon (optional): Enhances the chicken flavor, making the broth more robust.
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the crockpot. This allows them to cook directly in the broth, absorbing flavors and staying moist.
- Add Soups:
- Spoon the cream of chicken and cream of celery soups over the chicken in the crockpot. These soups act as a flavor base and tenderize the chicken during cooking.
- Add Butter:
- Cut the stick of butter into several pieces and distribute them evenly over the top of the soup. As the butter melts, it will add a rich, smooth texture to the broth.
- Prepare Broth:
- If using, whisk the chicken bouillon into the chicken broth until well combined. This step is crucial for ensuring the broth is flavorful.
- Pour the seasoned broth over the chicken and soups in the crockpot, ensuring the chicken is well-covered. This liquid will steam and braise the chicken as it cooks, keeping it moist.
- Cooking:
- Set the crockpot to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process helps the chicken become tender and flavors to meld together.
- Shred Chicken:
- After 6 hours, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. This is easier to do while the chicken is warm.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. This allows it to soak up more broth and flavors.
- Add Noodles and Vegetables:
- Add the frozen egg noodles and mixed vegetables, if using, to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Continue cooking on low for an additional 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking and to ensure even cooking.
- Final Seasoning and Serving:
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- The soup should be thick, creamy, and flavorful, with tender chicken and noodles. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
This expanded recipe guide provides detailed steps and ingredient explanations to help you achieve the best flavor and texture in your crockpot chicken noodle soup.
