Description
This Creamy Chicken Noodles recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. Tender egg noodles are combined with shredded chicken in a rich and creamy sauce, infused with aromatic vegetables and herbs. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz egg noodles (wide egg noodles recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for the entire dish.
Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this is called fond and adds extra flavor!). Stir in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Adjust seasoning as desired.
Step 3: Cook Noodles
Once the broth is boiling, add the egg noodles to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together or to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Stir in Chicken
Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pot. Stir well to combine it with the noodles and broth. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is heated through. Ensure that the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half, if using) and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce has thickened slightly and evenly coats the noodles and chicken. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to boil the cream, as it can curdle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Noodles recipe is a true winner for several reasons:
- Comforting Flavor: The rich, creamy sauce combined with tender noodles and savory chicken creates a deeply satisfying and comforting meal.
- Easy to Make: It’s a one-pot recipe, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Add more vegetables, use different types of noodles, or substitute the cream with a lighter alternative.
- Great for Leftovers: Creamy Chicken Noodles taste even better the next day, as the flavors have had more time to meld together.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top of the noodles before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Side Dish: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Vegetables: Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
Tips:
- Noodle Type: Wide egg noodles are traditionally used in this recipe, but you can substitute with other types of noodles such as fettuccine, penne, or rotini. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option for this recipe, but you can also use leftover cooked chicken or poach chicken breasts and shred them.
- Creaminess: For an extra creamy sauce, try adding a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the heavy cream.
- Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bright, tangy flavor.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Noodles is a classic recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its comforting flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about This Recipe
Q1: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can use milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick and rich. You might want to add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to help thicken it.
Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: While you can freeze creamy noodle dishes, the texture may change upon thawing due to the cream and noodles. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Q3: Can I add vegetables other than carrots and celery?
A: Absolutely! Mushrooms, peas, spinach, or bell peppers would all be great additions. Add them along with the carrots and celery.
Q4: What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
A: Asiago, Romano, or even a sharp cheddar cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmesan.
Q5: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Simply use gluten-free egg noodles and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.
