Chicken Noodles is a comforting, quick, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked noodles in a savory sauce. Packed with vibrant vegetables and seasoned to perfection, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty, homemade meal.
Why Chicken Noodles Is a Family Favorite
Chicken and noodles combine tender, flavorful chicken with soft, comforting noodles in a broth or creamy sauce. This pairing satisfies on every level—providing protein, carbs, and plenty of heartwarming flavors. It’s a dish that transitions effortlessly from a casual dinner to a potluck favorite.
The beauty of chicken and noodles lies in its adaptability. Whether you prefer the silky richness of homemade egg noodles, the convenience of store-bought pasta, or a gluten-free alternative, you can customize it to your taste and dietary needs.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken and Noodles
- Use leftover chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken works wonders for quick prep.
- Homemade broth: If you have time, homemade chicken broth adds unbeatable depth of flavor.
- Undercook noodles slightly: Let the noodles finish cooking in the sauce or broth to absorb the flavors.
- Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, stir in peas, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Make it ahead: Chicken and noodles taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Variations of Chicken and Noodles
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Opt for extra broth and skip the cream for a lighter, soupier version perfect for chilly days or when you’re under the weather.
Creamy Chicken and Noodles
Add cream cheese or sour cream for a rich, tangy twist on the classic dish.
Asian-Inspired
Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger to create a savory noodle bowl. Add bok choy or snap peas for an authentic touch.
Gluten–Free
Swap out regular noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice noodles to make this dish celiac-friendly.
Slow Cooker Chicken and Noodles
Place all ingredients (except noodles) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How to Serve Chicken and Noodles
- As a main dish: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
- For a crowd: Double the recipe for potlucks, family gatherings, or meal prep.
- Toppings: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan, crushed crackers, or crispy fried onions for added texture.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken and Noodles
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze chicken and noodles for up to 3 months. Avoid adding cream if you plan to freeze, as it can separate.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore the consistency.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make chicken and noodles ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dish up to the point of combining the noodles and chicken. Store them separately to prevent sogginess and combine when reheating.
What are the best noodles to use?
Egg noodles are a classic choice, but any pasta, such as fettuccine, linguine, or even spiral pasta, works well.
How do I thicken the broth?
Stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water or a bit of flour mixed with butter for a thicker sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut milk or leave out the cream entirely for a lighter, dairy-free version.
Is chicken and noodles healthy?
This dish can be as healthy as you make it. Use whole-grain noodles, plenty of vegetables, and lean chicken for a nutritious meal.
Chicken Noodles
Chicken Noodles is a comforting, quick, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked noodles in a savory sauce. Packed with vibrant vegetables and seasoned to perfection, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty, homemade meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless chicken thighs, skin-on, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (optional)
- 2 cups Thai basil leaves
- 450 g noodles, cooked and drained
- 4 slices ginger
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 6 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1 red chili, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until well combined. Set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: Follow package instructions, drain, and set them aside.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a drizzle of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté for 3-4 minutes until golden.
- Add Aromatics: Toss in ginger, garlic, and red chili. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine with Sauce: Add the noodles to the pan, followed by the sauce. If using Chinese cooking wine, pour it in now. Stir everything together for 2-3 minutes.
- Finish with Basil: Add Thai basil and sauté on high heat for 1-2 minutes until the leaves are wilted and fragrant.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 610Total Fat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 208mgSodium: 970mgCarbohydrates: 53gFiber: 4gSugar: 8gProtein: 51g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and noodles is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, entertaining friends, or indulging in some solo comfort food, this dish is a surefire hit. With so many ways to adapt it, you can reinvent chicken and noodles to suit any occasion or craving.
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