Creamy Chicken and Noodles
Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes
Creamy Chicken and Noodles is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, rich cream, and hearty noodles for a satisfying meal.
This Creamy Chicken and Noodles recipe is a family favorite, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that coats every noodle
- Tender chicken that adds protein and flavor
- Quick and easy to make for busy weeknights
A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
Creamy Chicken and Noodles is the ultimate comfort food that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply need a quick dinner solution after a long day, this dish never disappoints. The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce makes it a popular choice among both adults and children. It's the kind of meal that warms your heart and fills your stomach, making it perfect for cozy nights in.
The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your liking. You can add your favorite vegetables or substitute the chicken with another protein, such as turkey or tofu. The creamy sauce serves as a perfect base, accommodating various flavors and ingredients. This adaptability means you can enjoy Creamy Chicken and Noodles in countless ways, keeping mealtime exciting while still being simple to prepare.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
On busy weeknights, time is often of the essence, and Creamy Chicken and Noodles comes to the rescue. This recipe is designed to be quick and efficient, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just about 30 minutes. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more with your loved ones. The straightforward ingredients ensure that you won’t need to make a special trip to the grocery store, as they are likely already in your pantry.
This dish is also a great way to utilize leftover chicken. If you have some roasted or grilled chicken on hand, simply shred it and follow the recipe to create a meal that feels fresh and new. This not only saves you time but also reduces food waste, making Creamy Chicken and Noodles a smart choice for the environmentally conscious cook.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Creamy Chicken and Noodles can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together, enhancing the dish’s overall taste. However, be mindful that the sauce may thicken as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.
When it comes to reheating, the stovetop is the best method to maintain the creamy texture. Simply place the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is also an option; just cover the dish to prevent splatters and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. With these tips, you can enjoy this hearty meal multiple days a week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth preparation.
Instructions
Cook the Noodles
In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, and onion powder, cooking for about 3 minutes until heated through.
Combine Ingredients
Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and peas to the skillet. Stir until well combined and simmer for 5 minutes.
Finish with Cheese
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix with Noodles
Finally, add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Serve hot and enjoy your creamy chicken and noodles!
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken
Chicken is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is a great source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair. Incorporating chicken into your meals can help you feel fuller for longer, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, chicken is rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin and vitamin B6, which play a crucial role in energy metabolism and brain health.
The addition of peas in this recipe contributes not only to the flavor but also to the nutritional value. Peas are a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. This makes Creamy Chicken and Noodles not just a satisfying meal but a nutritious one as well, promoting overall health while delighting your taste buds.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing Creamy Chicken and Noodles with a fresh side salad. A mix of greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Alternatively, a buttery garlic bread or a warm baguette would be perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, adding to the comfort factor of the meal.
For those looking to complement the flavors with a beverage, a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with this dish. The acidity in the wine balances the creaminess, enhancing the overall dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime can provide a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or penne.
→ How can I make this dish lighter?
You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stove.
Creamy Chicken and Noodles
Creamy Chicken and Noodles is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, rich cream, and hearty noodles for a satisfying meal.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
How-To Steps
In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, garlic powder, and onion powder, cooking for about 3 minutes until heated through.
Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and peas to the skillet. Stir until well combined and simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finally, add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 26g