Chicken and Noodles Recipe (with Video)

Chicken and Noodles Recipe: Chicken and noodles have been a classic favorite for generations. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug on a plate.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef, this guide will make the process a breeze.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to experiment with flavors and create a dish that suits your palate perfectly.

Ingredients Required

Before we start, let’s gather everything you need. This recipe is built on simple, readily available ingredients, making it both affordable and practical.

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless or bone-in)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for added flavor)

For the Noodles

• 300 grams of egg noodles (or your choice of pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt for boiling water
• ½ teaspoon butter (optional for richer taste)

Optional Add-Ons

• 1 cup of sliced carrots
• ½ cup peas
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth

Preparation Steps

Cooking begins with good preparation. Taking time to prep your ingredients will ensure everything goes smoothly.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Clean the Chicken: Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season Generously: Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a small bowl. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken.
3. Marinate (Optional): If time allows, marinate the seasoned chicken for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Preparing the Noodles

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
2. Cook the Noodles: Add the noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions (usually 7–9 minutes).
3. Drain and Toss: Drain the noodles and toss them in olive oil or butter to keep them from sticking.

Cooking Process

Here’s where the magic happens! Follow these steps to bring everything together.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat the Pan: Add olive oil to a skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken in the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, ensuring it’s golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside (165°F/75°C).
3. Rest the Chicken: Transfer to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Combining Chicken and Noodles

1. Mix It Up: In the same skillet, add a little butter and toss in the cooked noodles. Stir gently to coat.
2. Add the Chicken: Incorporate the sliced chicken and mix well.
3. Optional Add-Ons: Add vegetables or sauces now, stirring until evenly distributed.

Optional Variations

Make this recipe your own with these fun variations:

Adding Vegetables

• Include carrots, peas, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
• Sauté the veggies in the skillet before mixing them with the noodles.

Spicing It Up

• Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation matters, even for a cozy meal like this.

Presentation Tips

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
• Serve in deep bowls to keep the noodles warm longer.

Accompaniments

• Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or a refreshing lemonade for a complete meal.

Expert Tips and Tricks

1. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the chicken.
2. Save a cup of pasta water to loosen the dish if it becomes too dry.
3. Always cook noodles slightly al dente, as they’ll continue cooking when mixed.

Benefits of Homemade Chicken and Noodles

Making chicken and noodles at home has countless benefits. It’s healthier, as you control the ingredients and portion sizes. It’s budget-friendly, especially compared to dining out, and lets you customize every element to your liking.

FAQs about Chicken and Noodles Recipe

What type of noodles works best for a chicken and noodles recipe?

Egg noodles are ideal for this dish because they absorb the flavors well and have a pleasing texture that complements shredded chicken perfectly. However, you can also use other pasta types like fettuccine or linguine for a varied texture.

How can I thicken the broth for my chicken and noodles?

To thicken the broth, you can use a mixture of flour or cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this into the simmering pot until the broth reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, simmering the broth for an extended period allows it to reduce and naturally thicken.

Can I make chicken and noodles in a slow cooker?

Yes, making chicken and noodles in a slow cooker is an excellent way to develop deep flavors with minimal effort. Add your chicken, broth, spices, and vegetables to the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles in the last half hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

What are some good vegetables to add to chicken and noodles?

Carrots, celery, and onions are classic additions that enhance the broth’s flavor. For more color and variety, consider adding peas, corn, or diced bell peppers.

Is it possible to make chicken and noodles gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like broth and seasonings, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Conclusion

This chicken and noodles recipe is a surefire way to satisfy your taste buds and create lasting memories around the dinner table. With easy steps and room for personalization, you’ll want to make it again and again.