Slow Cooker Recipes: Easy Meals, Less Effort!
Family-friendly dishes for busy people — quick prep, delicious results.
Grab yours for $4There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of homemade chicken and noodles from scratch.
The tender noodles and savory chicken combine to create a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.
In my family, this recipe has been passed down through generations and is a staple during the chilly months.
The rich broth and perfectly cooked chicken pieces create a flavor profile that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and yields impressive results.
Get ready to fill your home with the wonderful aroma of this classic comfort food.
The History and Cultural Significance
• Homemade Chicken and Noodles traces its origins to the rural Midwest of the United States, where it was originally created by farm families as a hearty, economical meal.
• The dish evolved over decades as homemade noodles became more refined and spices were added, eventually becoming the beloved version we know today.
• In American culture, this dish traditionally appears at family gatherings and church potlucks, symbolizing comfort and community.
• While many variations exist across different regions, the authentic version maintains a simple broth and handmade noodles that set it apart from imitations.
Recipe Overview
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Essential Equipment Guide
Rolling Pin: A rolling pin is essential for achieving the thin, even noodles that are a hallmark of this dish. If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can serve as an alternative. Look for a rolling pin with a comfortable grip and smooth surface.
Large Stock Pot: A large stock pot is necessary for cooking the chicken and simmering the broth. An alternative could be a Dutch oven. Ensure your pot has a heavy bottom to prevent sticking and burning.
Pasta Cutter: A pasta cutter ensures uniform noodle size, which is crucial for even cooking. If unavailable, a sharp knife will suffice. Look for a cutter with adjustable settings for noodle width.
Ingredients
For the Base
|
|
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3 pounds | chicken thighs | bone-in, skin-on for rich flavor |
| 8 cups | water | for boiling the chicken |
For the Noodles
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cups | all-purpose flour | sifted for light texture |
| 3 large | eggs | beaten |
| 1 tablespoon | milk | adds richness |
| 1 teaspoon | salt | enhances flavor |
Seasonings
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 teaspoons | black pepper | freshly ground |
| 1 tablespoon | parsley | chopped, for garnish |
Vegetables
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 large | carrots | sliced |
| 2 stalks | celery | chopped |
| 1 large | onion | diced |
Preparation Methods
Kneading Dough: Kneading the dough helps develop gluten, which is crucial for the elasticity and texture of the noodles. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. If the dough is sticky, dust with more flour.
Simmering: Simmering the broth allows flavors to meld and develop without boiling, which can toughen the chicken. Keep the heat low and watch for gentle bubbling.
Rolling and Cutting Noodles: Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent noodle thickness. Use a pasta cutter to achieve uniformity. Practice makes perfect—aim for noodles about 1/8 inch thick.
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Gather all ingredients and equipment.
Ensure vegetables are washed and ready for chopping.
Measure out flour and other dry ingredients for the noodles.
This preparation will streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Place chicken thighs in a large stock pot.
Cover with 8 cups of water and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes until chicken is tender.
Remove chicken and let cool before deboning.
Step 3: Make the Noodle Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
Create a well in the center and add beaten eggs and milk.
Mix until a rough dough forms, then knead on a floured surface.
Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Roll Out and Cut Noodles
Divide dough into two portions for easier handling.
Roll out each portion to about 1/8 inch thickness.
Use a pasta cutter to cut into 1/4 inch wide noodles.
Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Prepare Vegetables
Chop carrots, celery, and onion into uniform pieces.
The even size ensures they cook at the same rate.
This step can be done while the chicken simmers.
Set vegetables aside for later use.
Step 6: Debone the Chicken
Once chicken is cool enough to handle, remove skin and bones.
Shred chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Return bones to pot for additional flavor in broth.
This enhances the richness of the final dish.
Step 7: Simmer the Broth
Return pot with bones to a simmering state.
Add chopped vegetables to the pot.
Simmer for an additional 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Strain broth to remove bones.
Step 8: Cook the Noodles and Assemble
Bring strained broth to a boil and add noodles.
Cook for 10 minutes until noodles are al dente.
Add shredded chicken back into the pot.
Season with pepper and garnish with parsley before serving.
Critical Timing and Temperature Guide
Simmering Chicken: Simmer chicken for 45 minutes at a low temperature until tender. Avoid boiling to prevent toughness.
Cooking Noodles: Cook noodles for exactly 10 minutes at a rolling boil. Overcooking leads to mushy noodles.
Vegetable Tenderness: Simmer vegetables for 30 minutes until easily pierced with a fork. Monitor closely to avoid over-softening.
Pro Tips for Homemade Chicken and Noodles
• Ingredient Selection: Use fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for the best flavor and tender texture.
• Preparation Secret: Let the dough rest for 20 minutes after kneading to relax gluten and ease rolling.
• Temperature Management: Keep simmering temperature low to maintain tender chicken and clear broth.
• Texture Enhancement: Roll noodles thinly and uniformly to achieve a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Flavor Layering: Use the chicken bones to enrich the broth with depth and complexity.
• Make-Ahead Strategies: Noodles can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
• Restaurant-Quality Finishing Touches: Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Equipment Optimization: Use a heavy-bottomed pot to maintain even heat distribution and prevent scorching.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Noodles Too Thick: This occurs if the dough isn't rolled thinly enough. Roll to 1/8 inch thickness for best results.
• Broth Lacks Flavor: Might be due to insufficient simmering with bones. Ensure bones cook with broth for added depth.
• Chicken is Tough: Overcooked chicken can be tough. Simmer gently and avoid boiling to maintain tenderness.
• Vegetables Undercooked: If vegetables are still hard, increase simmering time until tender.
• Flavors Unbalanced: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and add a touch of acidity like lemon juice to balance flavors.
• Sticky Noodles: Dust noodles with flour before cooking to prevent sticking together.
Variations and Regional Differences
• Southern Style: This version includes a splash of cream for a richer, creamier broth and uses dumplings instead of noodles.
• Amish Variation: Uses egg noodles and is often served as a pot pie with a pastry crust.
• Asian Influence: Incorporates soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a savory twist with an umami kick.
• Italian Twist: Adds a base of tomato sauce and Italian herbs for a fusion of flavors.
Food Science Behind the Recipe
• Gluten Formation: Kneading develops gluten, giving noodles their chewy, elastic texture. The resting period allows gluten strands to relax and makes rolling easier.
• Maillard Reaction: Browning chicken enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction, which occurs when proteins and sugars in the meat react at high temperatures.
• Emulsification: Simmering bones releases gelatin, which emulsifies with the fat in broth, creating a silky mouthfeel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most common mistake people make when preparing homemade chicken and noodles? Overcooking the chicken, which results in tough, dry meat. Simmer gently to keep it tender.
Can I use store-bought noodles instead of making my own? Yes, but homemade noodles provide a superior texture and flavor that's worth the effort.
Is it necessary to use chicken thighs, or can I use breasts? Thighs are recommended for their richer flavor and moisture, but breasts can be substituted if preferred.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Can I freeze the dish? Yes, freeze in individual portions for easy reheating. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How can I add more vegetables? Feel free to add peas, green beans, or corn for additional nutrition and flavor.
What can be done if the broth is too salty? Dilute with more water or unsalted chicken stock to balance the flavors.
Serving and Presentation Guide
• Traditional Presentation: Serve in deep bowls with a generous portion of broth and noodles, topped with freshly chopped parsley.
• Garnished Elegance: Add a lemon wedge on the side for a pop of color and a hint of acidity.
• Family Style: Present in a large serving dish, allowing guests to help themselves, creating a communal dining experience.
• Rustic Charm: Serve with crusty bread on the side for a complete, hearty meal.
Conclusion
With its rich history and comforting flavors, homemade chicken and noodles are a must-try for any food enthusiast.
This recipe offers a delightful experience of creating something from scratch that is both delicious and rewarding.
Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of a hearty bowl made with love.
You'll impress family and friends with this timeless dish that's sure to become a favorite.
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