- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, chicken broth, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Add the chicken: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they are coated evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir to coat the shredded chicken in the sauce.
- Add noodles: Stir in the cooked egg noodles until they are evenly coated with the honey garlic sauce.
- Serve: Spoon into bowls and top with crunchy chow mein noodles just before serving for texture and added flavor.
Serving and Storage:
Serve this dish hot, paired with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the noodles have absorbed too much sauce.
Tips:
- Use day-old noodles for the best texture; fresh noodles can become mushy if overcooked.
- Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce by adding more honey or soy sauce to taste.
- For extra flavor, sauté the chicken in a skillet for 2–3 minutes before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free noodles.
Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken & Noodles is an effortless, flavorful, and family-friendly meal. With tender chicken, a sweet and savory sauce, and comforting noodles, it’s perfect for busy nights or a cozy dinner. The crunchy chow mein topping adds the perfect finishing touch, making every bite satisfying and delicious.
FAQ:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and are slightly more flavorful and tender.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chicken and sauce, then store separately from the noodles to prevent them from getting soggy. Reheat and combine when ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the noodles in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Add broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots 30 minutes before the end of cooking to keep them tender-crisp.
Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, simmer the chicken in the sauce over medium heat until cooked, then shred and mix with noodles.