Savory Chicken and Noodles

This comforting chicken and noodles recipe has been my go-to dinner solution on busy weeknights for years. The combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked egg noodles creates a meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day.

I first discovered this recipe when trying to recreate my grandmother's chicken and noodles without spending hours in the kitchen. After several attempts, this streamlined version became a family favorite that even my pickiest eaters request regularly.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Ensure tender, lean protein that cooks quickly
• Olive oil: Creates a beautiful golden crust on the chicken
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Provide depth without the prep work of fresh aromatics
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the finished dish
• Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base that the noodles absorb as they cook
• Egg noodles: Are the traditional choice for their tender texture and ability to hold up in the broth
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and allows you to control the salt level
• Fresh garlic cloves: Provide a bright, aromatic punch that dried simply cannot match
• Parmesan cheese: Creates a silky finish and adds umami depth
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the entire dish with color and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Generously coat both sides of your chicken breasts with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to season evenly for consistent flavor throughout the meat. This step creates a foundation of flavor that will eventually infuse the entire dish.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot oil and let them cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes. This patience allows a beautiful golden crust to form. Flip once and cook the other side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should have a gorgeous caramelized exterior.

Cook the Noodles:

Pour your chicken broth into the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, scraping the bottom to release any flavorful browned bits. Bring to a simmer before adding the egg noodles. Make sure all noodles are submerged in the liquid, pressing down gently if needed. Cover and let the magic happen as the noodles absorb the seasoned broth and become tender.

Prepare the Garlic Butter:

While the noodles cook, melt butter in a separate small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent browning or burning, which would create bitterness. This aromatic mixture will elevate the entire dish.

Combine and Serve:

Once the noodles have absorbed most of the liquid and reached al dente perfection, pour in the garlic butter mixture. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it in now and gently toss everything together. Slice your rested chicken into strips and arrange them atop the noodles. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds the perfect finishing touch before serving.

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You Must Know

The quality of your chicken broth makes a tremendous difference in this recipe. I discovered this after making it with homemade bone broth during a weekend cooking session. The depth of flavor was remarkable compared to using store-bought varieties, though both work wonderfully for quick weeknight dinners.

Make Ahead Options

This chicken and noodles recipe works beautifully as a meal prep option. I often make a double batch on Sunday and portion it into containers for lunches throughout the week. The flavors actually improve after a day in the refrigerator as the noodles continue to absorb the seasoned broth. Simply reheat portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or gently on the stovetop with an extra splash of broth to refresh the sauce.

Perfect Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. When my pantry is running low, I've successfully made several adaptations that work wonderfully:

• Chicken thighs: Can replace breasts for a more succulent, richer flavor profile
• Fettuccine or linguine: Work well if egg noodles aren't available
• Vegetable broth: Creates a lighter version with a different flavor dimension
• Dried herbs: Like thyme or rosemary can be added to the seasoning mix for variety
• Plant-based butter: Substitutes beautifully if dairy restrictions are a concern

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this chicken and noodles dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without overwhelming. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the richness of the noodles. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts round out the meal with additional nutrients. For a truly comforting experience, serve with warm crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different types of pasta instead of egg noodles?

Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with any pasta you prefer. Fettuccine, linguine, or even rotini work well in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Without a thermometer, you can tell it's done when the meat is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

→ What vegetables can I add to this dish?

This dish is versatile and works well with many vegetables. Try adding spinach, peas, mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli. Add heartier vegetables like mushrooms when sautéing the garlic, and more delicate ones like spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking.

→ Can I make this dish creamier?

For a creamier version, replace up to half of the chicken broth with heavy cream or half-and-half. Add the cream during the last few minutes of cooking the noodles to prevent curdling. You can also increase the amount of Parmesan cheese.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the noodles as they tend to absorb liquid when stored. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot throughout.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish and often provide more flavor and moisture than breasts. The cooking time may need to be increased by 1-2 minutes per side, but otherwise, the preparation remains the same.