There’s something magical about chicken and noodles that makes it the ultimate comfort food. Imagine a steaming bowl of perfectly cooked noodles, enveloped in rich, savory chicken broth, with tender pieces of chicken swimming joyfully amidst vibrant vegetables. The aromas alone could make even the crankiest person crack a smile. This dish has an uncanny ability to warm your soul and bring back memories of cozy family dinners or rainy days spent curled up on the couch.
Growing up, my grandmother made her famous chicken and noodles every Sunday. The whole house would fill with warmth and laughter as we gathered around the table, forks at the ready. Each spoonful was like a hug in a bowl—no wonder it became my go-to recipe for everything from celebrations to comforting self-care nights. You can enjoy this dish any time you need a little TLC or perhaps just want to impress your friends with your culinary prowess.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken and noodles recipe is super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- It boasts layers of flavor that dance on your palate, leaving you craving more
- Visually appealing with its colorful veggies, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike
- Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile—you can add your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!
I remember one rainy evening when I made this dish for some friends; their delighted faces were priceless as they took that first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Carrots: Slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly and add a dash of sweetness.
Celery: Fresh celery adds a delightful crunch and aroma to the broth.
Egg Noodles: Look for wide egg noodles; they soak up all those amazing flavors perfectly.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium so you can control the saltiness of the final dish.
Fresh Herbs (like parsley or thyme): These will brighten up your dish and add layers of flavor.
Pepper and Salt: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
First things first: prep your workspace so you can channel your inner chef without chaos!
Prep Your Chicken: Begin by washing your chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat; we want lean mean cooking machines here.
Sauté Your Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in minced garlic and let it sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do! Your kitchen will smell heavenly.
Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in diced carrots and celery; cook them until they’re slightly tender—around 5 minutes is perfect. Pour in about 6 cups of chicken broth; bring this magical concoction to a simmer.
Cook the Chicken: Add your chicken breasts gently into the simmering broth. Let them cook for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should hit 165°F/75°C). Remove them carefully once done.
Noodle Time!: Toss in those beautiful egg noodles into the pot while keeping an eye on them—cook for about 8-10 minutes until they’re al dente.
Shred and Serve!: While the noodles are cooking, shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Mix it back into your pot along with freshly chopped herbs; season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot!
And there you have it! A heartwarming bowl of chicken and noodles that feels like home-cooked love in every spoonful. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This chicken and noodles recipe is cozy comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners
- The rich aroma of simmering chicken fills the kitchen, making everyone ready to dig in
- Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that saves on cleanup time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first for a golden finish, then cook the noodles while preparing the creamy sauce. This order maximizes flavor and efficiency, ensuring that everything comes together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in turkey or add your favorite veggies like peas or carrots for extra color and nutrition. A dash of hot sauce can also bring a zing!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure you use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor
- Don’t rush the simmering process; let those flavors meld beautifully
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly!
It was a chilly evening when I first made this dish for my friends. Their delighted reactions as they savored each bite warmed my heart more than any fireplace could!
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
What type of noodles work best with chicken and noodles?
Egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Add more vegetables and use whole grain noodles to boost nutrition without sacrificing taste.
Chicken and Noodles
Chicken and noodles is the quintessential comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia with every bowl. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken simmered in savory broth with vibrant vegetables and perfectly cooked egg noodles. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, this recipe will impress your family and friends while filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 pieces)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced thinly
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the chicken by washing and patting dry. Trim excess fat.
- In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in carrots and celery; cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Add chicken breasts; cook for about 20 minutes until fully cooked (165°F/75°C). Remove chicken when done.
- Add egg noodles to the pot; cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the pot along with chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
