I love making everything from scratch, but today was not the day I have no idea what to call it, but it fed 3 adults a toddler, and preteen with some leftovers!
editing to add in more exact instructions!
Ingredients;
2 frozen chicken breast (the ones I have were fairly large)
1 32oz container of 50% less sodium chicken broth
1 packet of chicken gravy
1 family size can of cream of chicken soup
1/2 stick of butter
1 24 oz pack of reams frozen noodles
1 10 oz bag of frozen mixed veggies
Roughly 1/2 tsp of pepper
1/2 tsp of onion powder
And a sprinkle of dried parsley.
Add chicken, soup, broth, gravy and spices. Mix. Cooked on high for roughly 5hrs. I shredded the chicken in the crockpot with a fork, then added frozen noodles and veggies for another hour, or until noodles are done to your liking. Served hot with biscuits.
Variations and Tips
Variations:
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Customize your stew with different vegetables such as corn, peas, or bell peppers. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if using fresh veggies.
- Protein Options: Swap the chicken for turkey or beef for a different twist. For a vegetarian version, use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken.
- Seasonings: Experiment with additional herbs and spices like garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the flavor. A splash of lemon juice can add a nice tang.
- Noodles: Try different types of noodles or pasta shapes according to your preference. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can be used as well.
Tips:
- Chicken Preparation: For added flavor, sear the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This step can enhance the overall taste.
- Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, consider adding a slurry made from cornstarch and water toward the end of cooking, or use less broth.
- Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your chicken breasts and the type of slow cooker. Smaller chicken pieces may cook faster.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. Just reheat gently before serving, and add extra broth if needed.
Feel free to tailor this recipe to your tastes and dietary needs!
To store creamy chicken noodle stew, follow these steps:
- Cool Down: Let the stew cool to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer: Place the stew in an airtight container. If the stew is still warm, allow it to cool slightly before sealing the container to avoid condensation.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze (Optional): For longer storage, freeze the stew. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
When reheating, ensure it’s heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Note that cream-based soups can sometimes separate or become grainy after freezing and reheating.