If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that feels like a big hug on a plate, homemade chicken and noodles is the perfect dish to make. This timeless comfort food combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and soft, satisfying noodles to create a meal that’s both simple and deeply nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want to treat yourself, making chicken and noodles from scratch is easier than you think. Let’s walk through how to make this delicious classic right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make homemade chicken and noodles, gather these basic ingredients:
– Bone-in chicken pieces (breasts or thighs work well)
– Carrots, celery, and onion for flavor
– Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley (optional but recommended)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wide egg noodles (store-bought or homemade)
– Water or chicken broth
These simple ingredients come together to create a rich broth and tender chicken that’s infused with the natural flavors of the vegetables and herbs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Chicken and Noodles
1. Cook the Chicken and Make the Broth
Start by placing your chicken pieces in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add roughly chopped carrots, celery stalks, and an onion to the pot. Toss in a bay leaf and some fresh thyme if you have it. Pour in enough water to cover the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours. The chicken should become so tender that it easily falls off the bone. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the chicken rest in the broth for another 30 minutes to soak up even more flavor.
2. Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Discard the skin and bones, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. This shredded chicken will be the star protein in your dish.
3. Strain the Broth
Pour the broth through a fine sieve to remove the cooked vegetables and herbs. Return the clear, flavorful broth to the pot. This step ensures your chicken and noodles have a smooth, clean base without any unwanted bits.
4. Cook the Noodles in Broth
Bring the strained broth back to a simmer. Add your egg noodles and cook them until tender—usually about 6 to 8 minutes for wide egg noodles. The noodles will soak up the delicious chicken flavor, making every bite satisfying.
5. Combine and Season
Add the shredded chicken back into the pot with the noodles. Stir everything together and let it warm through for a few minutes. For a bright, fresh touch, stir in a little lemon juice if you like. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Chicken and Noodles
– Use bone-in chicken for the richest broth. The bones add depth and body to the flavor.
– Don’t rush the simmering process. Low and slow cooking extracts the most flavor from your chicken and veggies.
– Make your own egg noodles if you want to take it up a notch. Homemade noodles add a rustic, tender texture that’s hard to beat.
– Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme at the end for a fresh aroma and taste.
– Serve with sides like cornbread, buttermilk biscuits, or a crisp salad to round out the meal.
Variations to Try
– Creamy Chicken and Noodles: Stir in some milk or cream to the broth for a richer, creamier texture.
– Vegetable Boost: Add peas, green beans, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
– Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to warm up the dish.
– Asian-Inspired Chicken Noodles: Sauté chicken with garlic and soy sauce, then toss with stir-fried veggies and noodles for a quick twist.
Why Homemade Chicken and Noodles?
Making chicken and noodles at home means you control the ingredients and flavors. It’s a wholesome, budget-friendly meal that can be made in large batches and reheated easily. Plus, the aroma of simmering chicken broth and fresh herbs fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort—a sensory treat that store-bought versions just can’t match.
This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, chilly evenings, or anytime you want a taste of home-cooked love. And once you master the basic recipe, you can customize it endlessly to suit your tastes and pantry.
Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Chicken and noodles is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to make and deeply satisfying. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a homemade meal that warms both body and soul.