Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken & Noodles
This Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken & Noodles is packed with fresh veggies, rich garlic herb flavor, and a creamy Parmesan sauce that coats every bite. It’s one of my favorite easy dinners to make during the summer because it’s comforting without feeling too heavy.
This Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken & Noodles is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug but is still light enough for a summer night, which is a total win for my family. I love that I can get all the prep done in about 20 minutes, then let the slow cooker work its magic while I tackle everything else on my busy mom to-do list.
It's packed with fresh veggies and that rich garlic herb flavor that everyone adores, all coated in a dreamy Parmesan sauce. My kids devour this every time, and honestly, so do I! It's a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal that promises a delicious, comforting dinner without any last-minute fuss.
For me, an easy weeknight dinner means less stress and more time around the table, and this recipe delivers just that. It's the kind of meal I reach for when I want something satisfying that practically cooks itself.
Instructions
Add the zucchini, bell pepper, carrots, and onion to the bottom of the crockpot.
Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
Sprinkle the Kinder’s Buttery Garlic & Herb Seasoning evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
Spoon the minced garlic over the top.
Pour the bone broth into the crockpot.
Pour the melted butter over everything.
Cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks.
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Cover and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and heated through.
Stir in the cooked egg noodles until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Results
- To ensure your chicken is extra tender and easy to shred, don't overcrowd the crockpot; if doubling, consider using a larger slow cooker.
- Cook your egg noodles separately just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy in the sauce.
- For an even richer sauce, let the Parmesan cheese come to room temperature before stirring it in, it helps it melt smoothly.
- If your sauce seems too thin at the end, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the crockpot, then cook for another 15 minutes.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning after the chicken is shredded and the cream is added – sometimes a little extra salt or pepper makes all the difference.
Variations & Substitutions
- Add more vegetables like sliced mushrooms, spinach (stirred in at the very end), or even frozen peas for extra nutrition.
- For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based heavy cream alternative and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and herb seasoning.
- Instead of egg noodles, you could use a short pasta like penne, rotini, or even mashed potatoes for a different texture.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While technically freezable, the creamy sauce might separate a bit upon thawing, so it's best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm portions on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave individual servings on 50% power in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep and store the raw chicken and chopped vegetables in the crockpot liner in the fridge overnight. Just add the liquids and seasoning right before cooking the next day.
What if I don't have Kinder's seasoning?
You can create a similar flavor profile by combining garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried thyme, a pinch of dill, salt, and pepper with a little melted butter.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on either low or high setting to ensure it cooks through.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! My kids love the creamy noodles and tender chicken. You can always reduce the amount of garlic and herb seasoning if your children are sensitive to strong flavors.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting soggy?
The key is to cook the egg noodles separately and stir them into the crockpot only at the very end, right before serving. This keeps them from absorbing too much liquid and getting mushy.
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