Chicken and Noodles
A heartwarming Midwestern classic featuring tender shredded chicken and thick, chewy egg noodles simmered in a rich, savory gravy. This ultimate comfort food is traditionally served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
For 6 servings
6 steps. 70 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Make the Broth & Cook Chicken
- b.In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken pieces, water, quartered onion, chopped celery, carrots, and bay leaves.
- c.Season with 1.5 teaspoons of salt and 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper.
- d.Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare Homemade Noodles
- b.While the chicken simmers, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 0.5 teaspoon of salt in a medium bowl.
- c.Make a well in the center and add the eggs and milk.
- d.Mix with a fork until a shaggy dough forms. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and firm.
- e.Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rest for at least 15 minutes.
- f.On a floured surface, roll the dough out very thinly (about 1/16-inch thick). Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into strips, about 1/2-inch wide and 2-3 inches long. Lightly toss with flour to prevent sticking.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Shred Chicken & Strain Broth
- b.Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set it on a plate to cool slightly.
- c.Pour the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl; discard the cooked vegetables and bay leaves. You should have about 8 cups of rich broth.
- d.Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove and discard the skin and bones. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Create the Gravy Base
- b.Wipe out the pot and melt the butter over medium heat.
- c.Whisk in the remaining 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes until it's lightly golden and smells nutty.
- d.Gradually pour in 6 cups of the reserved hot chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Combine & Cook Noodles
- b.Add the shredded chicken, dried thyme, and the fresh noodles to the simmering gravy.
- c.Stir gently to combine. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- d.The noodles are done when they are tender and the gravy has thickened considerably from the released starch.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Finish & Serve
- b.Taste and season with the remaining 0.5 teaspoon of salt and 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper, or more as needed.
- c.If the mixture is too thick, stir in some of the remaining reserved broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
- d.Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot, traditionally over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a shortcut, use store-bought frozen homestyle egg noodles (like Reames). Add them directly from the freezer and cook according to package directions.
- 2Don't over-knead the noodle dough; it should be firm but not tough. A well-rested dough is crucial for easy rolling.
- 3The gravy thickens significantly as it cools. Adjust with extra broth or a splash of milk when reheating.
- 4For an even richer flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream at the very end of cooking.
- 5This dish freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- 6Serve over mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious gravy, as is traditional in the Midwest.
Adapt it for your goals.
Creamy Version
For a richer, creamier gravy, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Herbaceous TwistHerbaceous Twist
Add other herbs like 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary or sage along with the thyme for a more complex flavor profile. A tablespoon of fresh dill stirred in at the end is also delicious.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Make it a more complete one-pot meal by adding 1 cup of frozen peas, corn, or mixed vegetables along with the noodles for the last 5-7 minutes of cooking.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Provides Sustained Energy
The carbohydrates from the homemade noodles provide a substantial source of energy to fuel your body and brain throughout the day.
Comforting and Soul-Soothing
Warm, savory, and hearty, this dish is classic comfort food. Enjoying such meals can help boost mood, reduce stress, and provide a sense of well-being.
Frequently asked questions
A typical 1.5 cup serving has approximately 580-650 calories, primarily from the noodles, chicken, and butter. This estimate does not include the traditional mashed potato base.
