Chicken and noodles is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for cozy dinners. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking for a straightforward, satisfying meal, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create tender chicken, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked noodles all in one pot.
What You’ll Need
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– Egg noodles (dried or fresh)
– Chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
– Vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions
– Garlic and seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme, Italian seasoning)
– Cream or milk (for a creamy version)
– Butter or oil for sautéing
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Noodles
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your vegetables-carrots, celery, and onions work great. Mince the garlic and have your chicken ready, either whole breasts or thighs.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a skillet or large pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil or butter. Sauté the carrots, celery, and onions until the onions turn translucent. Add the garlic and your seasonings (Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper) and cook for about a minute to release the flavors.
3. Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer, cover, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (about 10-12 minutes). Then remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.
4. Cook the Noodles
Stir the egg noodles into the simmering broth and cook according to package instructions, usually about 10 minutes, until tender but still firm (al dente).
5. Make It Creamy (Optional)
For a creamy chicken and noodles dish, whisk together some cream and cornstarch, then stir it into the pot along with frozen peas and the shredded chicken. Let it simmer a few more minutes until thickened and heated through.
6. Taste and Adjust
Give your dish a final taste and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
Tips and Variations
– Vegetable swaps: Use whatever veggies you have-bell peppers, cabbage, or green beans all work well. Just add firmer veggies early so they soften properly.
– Seasoning twists: Try different spice blends like Cajun, taco seasoning, or herbs like rosemary for new flavors.
– Use leftover chicken: Rotisserie or boiled chicken works perfectly if you want to save time.
– One-pot convenience: This recipe is great for minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pan or pot.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken and noodles pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce.
This simple chicken and noodles recipe is a family favorite for a reason-it’s quick, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.