Homemade Chicken and Noodles – Delicious Meal Ideas

Before diving into the heart of this recipe, let’s consider some delightful pairings. Homemade chicken and noodles can stand on their own, but when you add complementary sides, you create a true feast. Here are some fantastic options that elevate the meal:

Bold Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken and noodles.

Bold Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for soaking up any leftover broth. It’s hard to say no to bread slathered with garlic and herb butter.

Bold Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and green beans tossed with a squeeze of lemon can brighten the plate and add vibrancy to your dining experience.

Bold Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw offers a nice contrast to the warm, comforting chicken and noodles. Plus, it’s easy to whip up ahead of time.

What is Homemade Chicken and Noodles?

Homemade chicken and noodles is a heartfelt dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, rich broth, and soft noodles. The chicken is typically boiled or roasted, providing a base for the broth, which is then enriched by fresh veggies and seasoning. 

The noodles, often egg-based, provide a comforting bite that ties everything together. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for dinner or a gathering.

Why This Recipe Works

Let me share with you why you’ll love this homemade chicken and noodles recipe. Here are four solid reasons to dive right in:

Bold Rich Flavor from Scratch: Using a whole chicken to create your own broth ensures a depth of flavor that store-bought stocks simply can’t match. That homemade broth is a game-changer.

Bold Fresh Ingredients Matter: Fresh vegetables not only add nutrition but also vibrant color and texture. You control what goes in, making it healthier and tastier.

Bold Customizable: This recipe is flexible. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. Love spinach? Throw it in. Got leftover veggies? Toss them in too!

Bold Comfort Food Genius: On a cold day, few dishes provide as much comfort as homemade chicken and noodles. It’s a crowd favorite that brings smiles and satisfied bellies.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Homemade Chicken and Noodles

Here’s a comprehensive list of what you need to gather:

For the Chicken Broth Base

• 1 whole chicken (about 5 pounds, skin-on, and giblets removed)
  
• 1 large onion (quarter it, no need to peel)
  
• 2 ribs of celery (cut into chunks)
  
• 1 tablespoon finely ground sea salt
  
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  
• 1 small bunch of fresh flat-leaf parsley (tied together with kitchen twine)
  
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  
• 2 whole carrots (peeled and roughly chopped)
  
• 1 teaspoon granulated onion powder
  
• 4 cups filtered water
  

For the Chicken and Noodles

• ½ cup heavy cream (for that extra richness)
  
• 1 cup thinly sliced carrots (from about 2 medium carrots)
  
• 1 cup celery slices (roughly 2 stalks)
  
• 1 cup freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley (for a bright finish)
  
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  
• About 3 cups shredded chicken meat (from the cooked chicken)
  
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion (approximately 1 medium onion)
  
• 6 cups homemade chicken broth (from cooking the chicken)
  
• 16 ounces fresh egg noodles (or substitute with 8 ounces dried egg noodles)
  
• 4 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted, based on preference)
  

How to Make These?

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get this delicious dish going. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process.

Step 1: Make the Chicken Broth

• In a large pot, combine your whole chicken, quartered onion, celery chunks, salt, black pepper, parsley, garlic powder, carrots, onion powder, and filtered water.
  
• Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow-cooking process extracts all the flavors.
  

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

• Once your chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the broth. Set it aside to cool.
  
• When cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized chunks. Discard the skin and bones.
  

Step 3: Strain the Broth

• Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the solids. This ensures a clear, flavorful liquid for your dish.
  

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
  

Step 5: Create the Base

• Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, whisking to combine. This will help thicken your broth later. Cook for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  

Step 6: Add Broth

• Slowly add in the reserved chicken broth, whisking continually until it’s smooth. Bring it to a simmer again.
  

Step 7: Incorporate Chicken and Noodles

• Once simmering, add the shredded chicken, heavy cream, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  

Step 8: Cook the Noodles

• Finally, add the egg noodles. Cook according to package directions until al dente. The noodles will absorb some of the broth, creating a delightful blend of flavors.
  

Tips for Perfect Homemade Chicken and Noodles

Here are some handy tips I’ve gathered over the years:

Bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables elevate the flavor. Don’t skimp here!

Bold Let the Broth Simmer: Patience is key. Letting the broth simmer longer enhances the flavor.

Bold Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, add a bit more flour, or let it simmer longer to reduce.

Bold Go for Quality Noodles: Fresh egg noodles will give you the best texture. But if you can’t find them, good-quality dried noodles will do.

Bold Season Gradually: Taste as you go. You might need less or more salt depending on your broth’s initial flavor.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough estimate for one serving of homemade chicken and noodles:

• Calories: 350
  
• Protein: 25g
  
• Carbohydrates: 36g
  
• Fiber: 3g
  
• Fat: 15g
  

This dish packs a hearty punch while still being beneficial for those watching their nutrition.

How to Store the Leftovers?

Leftovers can be a lifesaver. Here’s how to keep your chicken and noodles fresh:

Bold Cool Completely: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.

Bold Choose an Airtight Container: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for 3-4 days.

Bold Freezing: If you’d like to save it for later, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. It will keep for about 2-3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to indulge again!

What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Homemade Chicken and Noodles?

A well-rounded meal pairs beautifully with sides. Here are some top picks:

Bold Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory notes of the dish. It’s a classic combination that never goes out of style.

Bold Grilled Asparagus: The slight char adds a beautiful flavor. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt will bring out the best in this veggie.

Bold Baked Apples: A sweet side that rounds out the meal. Apples baked with cinnamon and a touch of sugar make every bite feel like dessert.

Bold Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting addition to the plate. They harmonize with the chicken and noodles for a filling dining experience.

Substitute Options

Not all ingredients may be available in your kitchen. Here are some substitutes that work just as well:

Bold Chicken: If you don’t have a whole chicken, use rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds great flavor.

Bold Fresh Noodles: Dried pasta is a great alternative if fresh noodles aren’t an option. Just adjust the cooking time.

Bold Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk. The richness will differ, but it’ll still be delicious.

Bold Fresh Herbs: If fresh parsley isn’t available, dried parsley will do in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more potent.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken and noodles is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting tradition that brings people together. With a rich broth, tender chicken, and comforting noodles, it doesn’t just nourish the body, it feeds the soul.

This recipe is adaptable for your preferences, allowing for creativity while delivering on flavor. Whether for a chilly weeknight or a family gathering, it’s a meal that embraces warmth and connection. So roll up your sleeves, kick off your shoes, and let’s keep that kitchen bustling. Enjoy every delicious spoonful, and remind yourself: good food creates great memories.

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