Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe
If you’re craving that ultimate comfort food with a creamy, dreamy sauce that hugs tender chicken and soft noodles, you’re in for a treat. This Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy family dinners or whenever you need a little culinary comfort. What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is—simple ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful meal that feels special without a fuss.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or making a comforting solo dinner, this Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe works like a charm. The hearty, silky sauce builds flavor as it simmers, and the tender noodles soak up all that goodness. Trust me, you’ll find yourself coming back to this one time and again—it’s just that good!
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple, Real Ingredients: Using pantry staples like butter, cream, and chicken broth creates deep, comforting flavors.
- Layered Cooking Technique: Sautéing veggies and making a roux in the same pan intensifies the overall taste.
- Comforting Texture: The egg noodles get perfectly tender, soaking up the creamy sauce for bowl-fulls of cozy goodness.
- Versatile Meal: It’s easy to customize while staying reliably delicious, great for weeknights or meal prepping for the family.
Ingredients & Why They Work
This combination of fresh veggies, creamy dairy, and perfectly seasoned chicken makes this Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe shine. Each ingredient has its place, creating a harmony of flavor and texture that’s both satisfying and easy to make. When shopping, go for fresh produce and quality broth to elevate the dish without extra effort.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs give more moisture and flavor, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat.
- Kinders The Blend or seasoning blend: A mix with salt, pepper, and garlic adds a great savory base—use what you have!
- Olive Oil: For a mild sauté flavor that helps brown the chicken without overpowering the dish.
- Salted Butter: Adds richness and depth, creating the perfect start for the sauce.
- Carrots, celery, and yellow onion: Classic mirepoix veggies provide sweetness and aromatic flavor layers.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the savory notes beautifully.
- All Purpose Flour: Essential for making the roux that thickens the sauce perfectly.
- Chicken Broth: Adds a savory backbone and keeps the sauce luscious.
- Heavy Cream: Brings that signature creaminess to the noodles and sauce.
- Dried Thyme and Parsley: Simple herbs that brighten and balance the rich sauce.
- Kinders Roast Chicken Seasoning: Adds a special roasted chicken flavor punch—optional but recommended.
- Dried Egg Noodles: They cook quickly and soak up the sauce for maximum comfort.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste—never underestimate finishing seasoning!
Make It Your Way
One of the best things about this Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe is how easy it is to tweak. I like to add my own touch depending on the mood or season, and I encourage you to do the same—it’s your comfort food, after all!
- Variation: I sometimes swap chicken thighs for breasts when I want a leaner meal, but keep the same cooking time so the chicken stays juicy.
- Dairy-Free Option: You can try coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free twist that still offers richness.
- Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms or peas during the last 10 minutes of simmering for extra color and nutrients.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika gives it a subtle smoky heat I really enjoy.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken Just Right
Start by coating your chicken well with the Kinders The Blend or your chosen seasoning—don’t be shy with it! Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken about 4-5 minutes per side until it’s golden and cooked through. Take your time here; the browning adds incredible flavor. Once done, set it aside to rest for 5 minutes before chopping—resting keeps the meat juicy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables Until Tender and Aromatic
Using the same pan (this is flavor magic), toss in your sliced celery, onions, and carrots. Season lightly with salt and pepper to bring out their natural sweetness. Let them cook gently for about 10 minutes until tender. Then add the minced garlic and cook just for another minute—too long and it’ll turn bitter, so keep your eye on it!
Step 3: Make the Roux and Build the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the sofrito in your pan and stir well to combine. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and start thickening. Slowly pour in your chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring constantly—that’s the key to a smooth sauce without lumps. Then season with dried thyme, parsley, and that special Kinders Roast Chicken seasoning if you have it. Stir everything together for a luscious base.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Noodles, Simmer to Perfection
Return your chopped chicken to the pan along with the dried egg noodles and any remaining broth. Bring everything to a boil, then let it bubble gently for about 8 minutes. After that, turn the heat down and let it simmer for at least 20 more minutes until the noodles are soft and the sauce has thickened to your liking. Patience here really pays off with creamy, rich results!
💡 Tips from My Kitchen
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Letting the chicken rest before chopping keeps it juicy, which makes the whole dish better.
- Slow Simmer Is Key: Taking the time to gently simmer your noodles in the sauce locks in creaminess and prevents mushiness.
- Season as You Go: I taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking to avoid a bland or overly salty dish.
- Avoid Overcooking Noodles: It’s tempting to cook the noodles fully in broth first, but adding them dry to the sauce and simmering keeps everything creamy.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
I usually sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a little thyme right on top before serving—that pop of green adds freshness to the rich sauce. Sometimes a grating of Parmesan makes it extra special and adds a nice salty bite. If you like, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe is filling on its own, but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal veggies to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are fantastic if you want to scoop up every bit of that silky sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner that feels a little extra, I like serving this in individual mini cast iron skillets or bright bowls with a sprinkle of herbs on top. It’s simple but looks gorgeous, especially when you add colorful garnishes. On special occasions, a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed greens makes the presentation pop beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they keep well for up to 3 days. The noodles soak up the sauce as it rests, so when reheating, a splash of extra broth or cream helps bring back the fresh-from-the-stove creaminess you love.
Freezing
From my experience, freezing this recipe isn’t the best idea because the noodles become mushy and lose their texture. I’d recommend enjoying it fresh or within a few days refrigerated instead for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often. Adding a little chicken broth or cream helps loosen the sauce and keeps everything creamy without drying out. Heat just until warmed through to maintain the textures.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen chicken for this Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture that can water down the sauce.
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Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?
You can use whole milk for a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. To add body, consider adding a touch more flour or using half-and-half if possible.
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What kind of noodles work best?
Dried egg noodles are ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce while remaining tender but not mushy. If unavailable, pappardelle or wide pasta ribbons can work as a substitute.
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How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Try swapping the butter for olive oil and the heavy cream for a coconut or cashew-based cream alternative. The texture and flavor will be different but still delicious and comforting.
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Is it okay to add vegetables like peas or mushrooms?
Yes! Adding peas, mushrooms, or other veggies during the last few minutes of simmering is a great way to boost flavor and nutrition without changing the cooking method.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s the perfect go-to for feeding loved ones something hearty and satisfying without spending hours fussing in the kitchen. I hope you’ll enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s the kind of dish that feels like home no matter the day or season. Give it a try, tweak it your way, and savor every creamy, comforting bite!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This creamy chicken and noodles recipe features tender chicken cooked with aromatic vegetables and a rich, savory sauce made from chicken broth and heavy cream. Egg noodles are simmered until perfectly tender, creating a comforting, hearty dish ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1-2 tbsp Kinders The Blend (or any salt, pepper, and garlic blend)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Salted Butter
Vegetables
- 2 Carrots, sliced
- 2 Celery Stalks, sliced
- 1 Yellow Onion, diced
- 3-4 Garlic Cloves, minced
Sauce and Noodles
- 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/4 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1 tbsp Dried Parsley
- 1 tbsp Kinders Roast Chicken Seasoning (optional)
- 12 oz Bag of Dried Egg Noodles
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Coat the chicken breasts or thighs evenly with Kinders The Blend seasoning or your preferred salt, pepper, and garlic blend.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of salted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Then roughly chop or shred the chicken according to your preference.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced celery, onions, and carrots. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour to the vegetables in the skillet. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Gradually pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring to avoid lumps. Add dried thyme, dried parsley, Kinders Roast Chicken Seasoning if using, and stir well. Mix in the cooked chicken and the egg noodles along with the remaining chicken broth.
- Simmer the noodles: Bring the mixture to a boil, then allow it to boil for 8 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the noodles are tender.
- Finish and serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the creamy chicken and noodles hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Do not freeze the dish as the egg noodles will become mushy upon thawing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop; add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
- You can substitute kinders seasoning blends with any salt, pepper, and garlic seasoning available.
- For a lighter version, you can reduce the heavy cream or substitute with a lighter dairy alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
