Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion? This Stovetop Chicken and Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need! It’s a hearty, comforting meal that combines tender chicken, rich broth, and egg noodles in a creamy sauce, all cooked on the stovetop in one pot. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner with friends, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients for Stovetop Chicken and Noodles

Here’s everything you need to make this comforting meal:

4 cups chicken broth (32 ounces)
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
1/2 cup butter
2 (10-ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
1 (12-ounce) bag egg noodles

Essential Kitchen Equipment

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

Large pot or Dutch oven
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Tongs
Forks for shredding chicken
Ladle for serving

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepare the Broth and Seasonings

Begin by adding the chicken broth, water, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to a large pot or Dutch oven. Stir everything together until the spices are well mixed with the liquid. This flavorful base will infuse the chicken and noodles with rich, savory taste.

2. Cook the Chicken

Place the boneless chicken breasts into the pot with the broth, then add the butter. Cover the pot and heat it over medium heat until the broth begins to boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, covered, for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

3. Shred the Chicken

Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set the shredded chicken aside.

4. Create the Creamy Base

Add the cans of cream of chicken soup to the broth in the pot. Whisk thoroughly until the soup is completely incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Bring the broth back to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Add the Noodles and Chicken

Once the broth and soup mixture is boiling, add the egg noodles to the pot. Return the shredded chicken to the pot as well, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to simmer, and then reduce the heat to medium. Cover and cook for 2-5 minutes, or until the noodles are about halfway done.

6. Finish Cooking the Noodles

Turn off the burner but keep the pot covered. Let it rest for a few more minutes until the noodles are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency. This method allows the noodles to absorb the flavors and ensures the dish has a luscious, rich texture.

How to Shred Chicken Perfectly

Shredding chicken can be a breeze with the right technique. Start by allowing the chicken to cool slightly so it’s easier to handle. Use two forks, holding one steady while pulling the other one away to tear the meat into small pieces. Alternatively, you can use a hand mixer on a low setting for faster, more uniform shredding.

Cooking the Noodles to Perfection

To ensure the egg noodles are perfectly cooked, monitor the pot closely after adding them to the broth. Egg noodles cook quickly, so reducing the heat after they begin to soften will help prevent overcooking. The resting period with the heat off will allow the noodles to finish cooking gently, soaking up the sauce’s flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the broth once it is tender and fully cooked.
Not Shredding the Chicken Properly: Shredding the chicken while it’s still hot can be tricky. Allow it to cool slightly for easier handling.
Cooking the Noodles Too Long: Overcooked noodles can become mushy. Keep the noodles half-cooked initially, then let them rest with the heat off to reach the desired tenderness.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

Use Different Noodles: If you don’t have egg noodles, you can substitute them with fettuccine or rotini.
Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious twist, add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
Try Different Seasonings: Customize the flavor by adding herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve this dish in deep bowls to capture all the creamy broth. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dish over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and can add more flavor due to their higher fat content.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free egg noodles and a gluten-free version of the cream of chicken soup.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, the noodles might become softer upon reheating, so keep that in mind.

Conclusion

This Stovetop Chicken and Noodles Recipe is an easy, satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe to our blog for more delicious ideas!