Ingredients
- 1 package (24 ounces) frozen egg noodles: These are the base of the dish and should be cooked until tender.
- 2 cans (14.7 ounces each) cream of chicken soup: This provides a creamy base. You can substitute one can with cream of celery for a different flavor.
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter: Cut into pieces; this adds richness to the broth.
- 1 can (32 ounces) chicken broth: This is used to cook the chicken and noodles. You might need extra to thin out the mixture as it thickens during cooking.
- Mixed vegetables (optional): These can be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Choose your favorites like carrots, peas, or corn.
- 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon chicken base (optional): This enhances the chicken flavor of the dish.
- 6 small or 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the protein of your dish, cooked until tender and then shredded.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning. You can also add parsley for added flavor and color.
Instructions
- Preparation of Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Place them at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Assembling the Dish:
- Spoon the cream of chicken soup over the chicken breasts.
- Distribute pieces of butter evenly over the soup.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the chicken broth with the Better Than Bouillon (if using), then pour this mixture over the chicken and soup layers.
- Cooking:
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and flavors to meld.
- Adding Noodles and Vegetables:
- After 6 hours, remove the chicken breasts and shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the frozen egg noodles to the slow cooker. If using mixed vegetables, add them at this time.
- Final Cooking Stage:
- Continue cooking on low for an additional 2 hours, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. If the mixture is too thick, you may add more chicken broth to adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Finishing Touches:
- If using parsley, sprinkle it over the dish towards the end of cooking.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serving:
- Serve hot directly from the slow cooker. Enjoy your comforting and hearty meal!
This expanded recipe provides more details on each step and ingredient, making it easier to follow and ensuring a delicious outcome.
