In 4 1/2 to 6- quart slow-cooker, combine water, carrots, celery, onion, bay leaves, thyme, 4 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Place whole chicken on top of vegetables. Cover slow cooker with lid and cook as manufacturer directs on low setting 8 to 10 hours or on high setting 4 to 5 hours.

Transfer chicken to cutting board. Discard bay leaves. Add noodles to slow cooker; cover with lid and cook (on low or high) 20 minutes.

While noodles cook, remove and discard skin, fat and bones from chicken; shred meat.

Return chicken to soup to serve.