Comfort Food Recipes With Chicken And Noodles

Name: Comfort Food Recipes With Chicken And Noodles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup egg noodles; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Wholesome

I absolutely love comfort food, and there's nothing that warms my heart quite like chicken and noodles. This dish brings together tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a flavorful broth that creates a perfect combination for a cozy evening. It’s like a warm blanket on a chilly day. Over the years, I've tweaked the recipe to make it just right, balancing the spices and the broth to achieve a rich, comforting flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:19:18.694Z

On a rainy afternoon, I decided to whip up a dish that felt like home: chicken and noodles. I simmered chicken breasts in a delicate broth infused with herbs, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The secret tip I discovered is adding a splash of lemon juice at the end, which brightens up the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

As the noodles cooked to perfection, I felt a sense of nostalgia wash over me. It reminded me of family gatherings where this was always the star. Each bite brings a sense of comfort and familiarity, and I'm sure it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty ingredients that fill your soul
Rich, savory broth that's bursting with flavor
A quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this chicken and noodles recipe plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The chicken breasts not only provide protein, but when simmered, they add depth to the broth that enhances its savory profile. Using high-quality chicken broth instead of water is key, as it infuses the dish with rich flavor—homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought varieties work well too. Carrots and celery contribute sweetness and earthiness, while onions and garlic provide aromatic complexity.

The egg noodles truly shine in this dish, offering a tender yet slightly chewy texture that balances the savory broth. It’s important not to overcook the noodles; they should be added towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their integrity. Aim for a cooking time of about 5-7 minutes in the hot broth. Remember, if you can’t find egg noodles, you can substitute them with fettuccine or any other similar pasta, but cooking times may vary.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken and Noodles

When browning the chicken, ensure your pot is preheated with olive oil shimmering but not smoking. This will create a nice golden-brown crust, enhancing both flavor and appearance. Don’t overcrowd the pot; work in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the chicken. After browning, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding ensures that it retains its juicy texture, so don’t skip this step.

Make sure to taste the broth as it simmers, adjusting the seasoning of salt and pepper gradually. The right balance can change the experience of the dish significantly. If you prefer a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes alongside the thyme. Additionally, a splash of white wine before adding the broth can introduce a subtle acidity that brightens the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients and prepare for the comfort that awaits. This dish comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup egg noodles
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients on hand, you're just about ready to start cooking. The preparation is simple and enjoyable, allowing you to create a warm and inviting meal.

Instructions

Now that everything is ready, let’s get started on making this comforting dish.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown them on both sides for about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent.

Make the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper, then return the chicken to the pot.

Cook the Noodles

Let everything simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot along with the egg noodles. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Final Touches

Stir in the lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Your comforting chicken and noodles are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and share with family and friends.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine during the broth creation stage. It adds depth without being overpowering.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This comforting chicken and noodles dish stands well on its own, but you can elevate your meal by pairing it with a light salad. A simple mix of greens with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the broth. Alternatively, crusty bread for dipping is always a crowd-pleaser, allowing you to soak up every flavorful drop!

If you're serving this as a festive dinner, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus to provide a pop of color and additional nutrition. The key is to keep the sides simple so they complement rather than overshadow the main dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this chicken and noodles recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain noodle texture, consider storing the noodles separately if you anticipate leftovers, as they can become mushy when mixed with the broth over time. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to restore moisture.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well, but be mindful of the noodles’ texture. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook the noodles.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Just skip the browning step and add the shredded chicken during the final steps.

→ What can I substitute for egg noodles?

You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta, like fettuccine or even rice for a different texture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.