Chicken and Noodles with Gravy: A Comforting Classic
There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of chicken and noodles smothered in a rich, velvety gravy. This classic dish has been a family favorite for generations, and for good reason. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a flavorful gravy is a harmonious blend that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe for chicken and noodles with gravy is sure to hit the spot. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be able to whip up this comforting creation in no time, making it the ultimate go-to dish for any occasion.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this chicken and noodles with gravy recipe. First and foremost, the flavors are out of this world. The savory chicken is perfectly complemented by the rich, velvety gravy, creating a symphony of taste that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
But it’s not just the taste that makes this recipe a winner – it’s also the convenience factor. With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, you can have a hearty, home-cooked meal on the table in no time. And the best part? This dish is incredibly versatile, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting classic or looking to impress your guests, this chicken and noodles with gravy recipe is sure to deliver. So why not give it a try and experience the magic for yourself?
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Chicken and Noodles with Gravy ❓
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this chicken and noodles with gravy recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender chicken, egg noodles, and a rich, flavorful gravy creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
📝 How to Make Chicken and Noodles with Gravy Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
• Step 3: Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
• Step 4: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
• Step 5: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss to combine. Serve the chicken and noodles with gravy warm.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken and dumplings which can take up to an hour to prepare, this chicken and noodles with gravy recipe saves you over 30% of your cooking time while delivering similar comforting flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 33g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 543mg
These chicken and noodles with gravy provide approximately 66% of your daily protein requirements and 17% of your daily carbohydrate needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to reduce the carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk in place of the regular milk, and skip the butter in favor of a dairy-free oil.
• Added protein: Incorporate extra protein by adding cooked diced chicken or turkey, or using a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
• Boost vegetables: Sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery along with the chicken to increase the vegetable content.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the chicken and noodles with gravy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a crusty loaf of bread or warm biscuits for dipping in the delicious gravy.
• Complement the dish with a hearty vegetable soup or a crisp, refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
• For a family gathering, serve the chicken and noodles with gravy on a platter surrounded by a selection of steamed vegetables, rolls, and a pitcher of iced tea or lemonade.
• Create an elegant dinner party spread by serving the chicken and noodles with gravy alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, a rustic bread basket, and a bold red wine.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Rushing the gravy: Take the time to let the gravy thicken properly, as rushing this step can result in a thin, watery sauce.
• Skimping on seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season the chicken and gravy generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices to ensure maximum flavor.
• Forgetting to taste and adjust: Regularly taste the dish as you’re cooking and make any necessary adjustments to the seasoning or consistency.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before adding it to the gravy to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These chicken and noodles with gravy retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the chicken and noodles without the gravy, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then prepare the gravy and reheat the chicken and noodles.
• Freezing baked: Allow the cooked chicken and noodles with gravy to cool completely, then portion into individual servings and wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply unwrap and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the chicken and noodles with gravy gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, being careful not to overcook.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the chicken and noodles with gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making in advance. You can prepare the chicken and noodles without the gravy, then store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and noodles and prepare the gravy. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked chicken and noodles for up to 3 months, then thaw and make the gravy when ready to enjoy.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can easily swap out the chicken for another protein, such as turkey, pork, or even ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the new protein is cooked through. You may also need to adjust the seasoning to complement the different flavor profile.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make this chicken and noodles with gravy dairy-free, simply use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk in place of the regular milk, and substitute a dairy-free oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, for the butter. You can also find dairy-free chicken broth at most grocery stores.
What should I do if the gravy is too thick or too thin?
If the gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a bit more milk or chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency. If the gravy is too thin, make a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of flour with a small amount of water, then whisk it into the gravy and allow it to simmer until thickened.
Can I add any additional ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! This chicken and noodles with gravy recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative. You can add diced vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas, or even throw in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. You can also experiment with different noodle shapes or even try swapping the egg noodles for a whole-wheat or gluten-free variety.
Conclusion
These chicken and noodles with gravy represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, they’re sure to impress with their comforting and satisfying qualities. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these chicken and noodles with gravy demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the magic of this timeless, comfort-food classic for yourself?
