Chicken And Noodles Recipe

If you're looking for a comforting, hearty meal that's easy to prepare and delicious, this Chicken and Noodles recipe is perfect for you! Tender chunks of chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy, flavorful broth come together to create a soul-warming dish that's ideal for a weeknight dinner or when you need some comfort food. This classic dish is easy to customize, and you can make it in one pot for an easy, mess-free meal.

this Recipe

What is Chicken and Noodles?

Chicken and Noodles is a homestyle comfort dish featuring tender chicken pieces, egg noodles, and a flavorful broth. It can be made creamy or brothy, depending on your preference. It's typically cooked with carrots, celery, and onions to add flavor and texture. Chicken and Noodles can be served as a main course or as a side dish, and it's especially comforting during cooler months.

Ingredients List for Chicken and Noodles

For the Chicken and Noodles:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or a mix)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (or more if you prefer a soupier consistency)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 8 oz egg noodles (about 4 cups)
• ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for a creamy version)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

You can easily customize this Chicken and Noodles recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies like peas, green beans, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• Creamy Version: Add heavy cream or milk for a creamy chicken and noodles dish.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles or rice noodles to make the dish gluten-free.
• Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred the cooked chicken and add it to the broth when the noodles are almost done cooking.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, parsley, or dill for a flavor twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Chicken and Noodles recipe is simple to follow and can be prepared in under an hour. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, until lightly browned.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bay leaves.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the egg noodles and cook them in the simmering broth for 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender but still firm to the bite. If the broth reduces too much, you can add more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Make It Creamy (Optional)

For a creamy version, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or milk after the noodles are cooked. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat the cream through and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Serve

Once the noodles are cooked and the dish is heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

How to Cook Chicken and Noodles: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sauté the vegetables until softened.
2. Sear the chicken in the same pot until lightly browned.
3. Add the broth and seasonings, and simmer the chicken until fully cooked.
4. Shred the chicken and return it to the pot.
5. Cook the egg noodles in the broth until tender.
6. Add cream for a creamy version (optional).
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Remove it from the pot as soon as it's cooked through, and shred it before returning it to the pot.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Keep an eye on the egg noodles while they cook. Overcooking can cause them to become mushy. Cook until they are just tender.
• Not Enough Broth: As the noodles cook, they will absorb some of the broth. If you prefer a soupier consistency, add more chicken broth during the cooking process.
• Skipping the Sauté: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step for a more flavorful dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Chicken and Noodles is a comforting, homestyle dish that’s best served warm. Here are a few ways to serve and present it:

• Serve with Bread: Pair the dish with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a complete, hearty meal.
• Top with Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme to add color and a fresh flavor.
• Serve in Bowls: For a cozy, family-style presentation, serve the chicken and noodles in deep bowls, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve Chicken and Noodles

Here are some great ways to serve Chicken and Noodles:

• Over Mashed Potatoes: For an even more comforting meal, serve chicken and noodles over creamy mashed potatoes.
• With a Side Salad: Balance out the rich and hearty dish with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or biscuits to soak up the delicious broth.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Noodles

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the top to add a pop of color.
• Serve in a Large Bowl: For a family-style meal, serve the chicken and noodles in a large bowl in the center of the table.
• Garnish with Lemon: Add a slice of lemon on the side for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Chicken and Noodles Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop, adding extra broth if needed.
• Double the Recipe: Chicken and Noodles is perfect for leftovers, so consider doubling the recipe and storing extra portions in the freezer for busy nights.
• Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken, you can skip the cooking step and add the shredded chicken directly to the broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the broth when you cook the noodles.

Can I freeze Chicken and Noodles?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop, adding extra broth if necessary.

What can I use instead of egg noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use other types of pasta like rotini, bow-tie, or even wide fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.

How long does Chicken and Noodles last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, Chicken and Noodles will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Chicken and Noodles is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a flavorful broth in one delicious dish. It’s easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you serve it as a creamy dish or keep it simple and brothy, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Follow the steps above, and you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready to enjoy in no time!

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