chicken and noodles recipe

Looking for a warm, hearty meal that’s quick to make? This chicken and noodles recipe has saved my sanity on countless busy weeknights.

When the kids are hungry, time is short, and you need something that feels like a hug in a bowl, this dish delivers every time.

The best part? It uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and it comes together with minimal effort but maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love the Easy Chicken and Noodles Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes – perfect for those hectic weeknights
• Uses simple pantry ingredients most people keep on hand
• Creates a creamy, comforting flavor that even picky eaters devour
• Makes enough for leftovers that taste even better the next day
• Works as an easy chicken and noodles recipe for beginners with foolproof results

Ingredients for Incredibly Easy Chicken and Noodles (6 servings)

• 3 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
• 1 (26 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups diced, cooked chicken breast meat
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 (9 ounce) packages frozen egg noodles

Simple Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Create Your Creamy Base

In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir well until the mixture looks smooth and the soups are fully incorporated into the broth. Add your diced chicken pieces and mix gently.

2. Add Your Seasonings

Sprinkle in the onion powder, seasoning salt, and garlic powder. These simple seasonings might not seem like much, but they add just the right flavor without overwhelming the creamy goodness of the dish. Give everything a good stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.

3. Bring to a Boil

Place your pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a full boil. You’ll know it’s ready when you see bubbles consistently breaking the surface across the whole pot, not just around the edges.

4. Add the Noodles

Once boiling, carefully add the frozen egg noodles. No need to thaw them first! Stir gently to make sure none stick together or to the bottom of the pot. The frozen noodles help thicken the sauce as they cook.

5. Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 20-30 minutes. During this time, the noodles will become tender while absorbing flavors from the broth. The sauce will naturally thicken as the noodles release starch into the mixture.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the noodles are tender and the sauce has reached your desired thickness, your chicken and noodles are ready to serve! This dish is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Save Time With Smart Shortcuts

Short on time? Grab a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store instead of cooking chicken breast from scratch. Just pull off about 2 cups of meat and dice it up. The slightly seasoned chicken adds an extra layer of flavor!

Perfect Your Consistency

Like your chicken and noodles extra thick? Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. Too thick? Just add a splash more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. The dish will also thicken as it cools, so keep that in mind when serving.

Make It Your Own

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Toss in a cup of frozen mixed vegetables during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley sprinkled on top just before serving can brighten the whole dish.

Storage Magic

This chicken and noodles recipe actually tastes better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a small splash of broth or water as the noodles will have absorbed some of the liquid overnight.

A Little Story

When my youngest was going through that notorious picky eating phase (you know the one—where suddenly everything is “yucky”), I was at my wit’s end trying to find something nutritious he would actually eat. I whipped up this chicken and noodles recipe one cold evening, not expecting much. As I placed the bowl in front of him, I braced myself for the usual negotiation. To my absolute shock, he took one bite, looked up at me with wide eyes, and said, “Mommy, this is the most delicious dinner ever!” Now it’s our family’s comfort food champion, requested at least twice a month, especially when someone’s had a rough day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I thicken my chicken and noodles?

If your dish seems too thin, you have several easy options. The simplest method is to continue simmering uncovered for a few extra minutes, allowing more liquid to evaporate. For a quicker fix, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir this into your simmering pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remember that the dish naturally thickens as it cools and as the noodles absorb more liquid.

How to make simple chicken noodles?

For an even simpler version, you can make basic chicken noodles by bringing 6 cups of chicken broth to a boil, adding 2 cups of cooked, diced chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder, then adding 12 ounces of egg noodles and cooking until tender (about 8-10 minutes). It won’t be as creamy as this recipe, but it’s perfect when you’re short on ingredients or time.

Can I just add noodles to chicken broth?

Absolutely! While this recipe creates a rich, creamy version of chicken and noodles, you can make a lighter, soup-like version by simply cooking egg noodles in chicken broth until tender. The noodles will release starch as they cook, giving the broth more body. For extra flavor, add cooked chicken, a pinch of herbs, and perhaps some diced carrots and celery. This makes a quick Chicken and Noodles soup perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

How to season chicken noodle?

The classic seasoning trio for chicken and noodles starts with onion powder, garlic powder, and salt, as used in this recipe. For deeper flavor, try adding 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme or poultry seasoning. A bay leaf simmered in the broth (remember to remove before serving) adds wonderful aroma. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill sprinkled on top just before serving add brightness. Some folks enjoy a dash of black pepper or even a tiny pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Remember that the condensed soups already contain salt, so taste before adding more.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients except the noodles to your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, turn the heat to high, add the noodles, and cook until tender. This method is perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready when you walk in the door.

Final Thoughts

This chicken and noodles recipe might seem simple, but sometimes the most basic dishes bring the most comfort. There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles that makes everyone at the table feel cared for. Whether you’re feeding a family with kids, looking for meal prep options for a busy week, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this dish delivers every time.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Don’t have mushroom soup? Use two cans of chicken soup instead. Need to stretch it further? Add extra veggies and another can of broth. Want to dress it up for company? Serve it in bread bowls or alongside these delicious chicken Caesar tacos for a fun dinner spread.

What comfort food takes you back to your childhood? Is it something creamy and satisfying like this chicken and noodles? Try this recipe tonight and see if it doesn’t become a new family favorite in your home too!

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