Creamy Chicken over Egg Noodles

by

Creamy Chicken over Egg Noodles

Introduction

Creamy Chicken over Egg Noodles is a classic comfort dish that brings together the richness of a creamy sauce, the juiciness of pan-seared chicken, and the tender chewiness of egg noodles. Originating as a European-inspired comfort food, this dish has captured the hearts of many with its simple preparation and luxurious flavors. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option) by
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp parsley flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz egg noodles
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  3. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Simmer the sauce for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles

  1. While the sauce is simmering, cook the egg noodles in salted boiling water according to package instructions.
  2. Drain and toss with butter or olive oil, if desired.

Step 4: Combine

  1. Add the chicken back to the skillet with the sauce and simmer for another 5–7 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
  2. Place the cooked noodles on a serving platter or individual plates.
  3. Top with the creamy chicken and sauce

Methods to Perfect Creamy Chicken Over Egg Noodles

1. Choosing the Right Chicken

  • Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicy and flavorful results. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work too, but be cautious not to overcook them.
  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a golden, crispy sear.

2. Searing the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet to create a balance of flavor and prevent burning.
  • Sear the chicken over medium-high heat for a golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will trap steam and prevent browning.

3. Making the Sauce

  • Start with a roux (butter and flour cooked together) to create a thick and creamy sauce. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps.
  • Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream to achieve a smooth texture. Adding the liquids slowly ensures the roux dissolves properly.
  • Enhance flavor with garlic, Dijon mustard, thyme, and parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Cooking the Noodles

  • Boil the egg noodles in salted water for added flavor.
  • Drain and toss with a bit of butter or olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also toss the noodles directly into the sauce to coat them fully.

5. Combining the Components

  • Once the sauce has thickened, add the seared chicken back to the skillet and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
  • Serve the chicken and sauce over the prepared egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color.

6. Enhancements and Variations

  • Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrients and texture.
  • Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish before serving for extra richness.
  • Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

Key Tips for Success

  1. Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  2. Use a non-stick or stainless steel skillet for even cooking and browning.
  3. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.

By following these methods, you’ll create a creamy, flavorful dish with perfectly cooked chicken and tender noodles

History

This dish draws inspiration from European creamy chicken recipes, particularly French and Italian cuisines. The combination of a velvety roux-based sauce with perfectly seared chicken has made its way into American households, evolving into a hearty, family-friendly meal

This hearty dish, a classic in many households, has a rich history rooted in comfort food traditions. Let’s explore how this recipe came to be a beloved favorite.

Origins of the Components

  1. Egg Noodles
    Egg noodles have been a staple in many cuisines for centuries. Their origins trace back to China around 2000 BC, but they became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, especially in Germany and Hungary. Egg noodles are celebrated for their tender texture and ability to absorb sauces, making them perfect for creamy dishes.
  2. Cream-Based Sauces
    Cream sauces were popularized in French cuisine during the 17th century, with the development of béchamel (one of the “mother sauces”). This technique eventually spread worldwide, influencing creamy dishes like Alfredo in Italy and casseroles in the United States.
  3. Chicken as the Star
    Chicken has always been a versatile and widely consumed protein. During the early 20th century in the United States, poultry became a household staple due to its affordability and adaptability. Recipes featuring chicken paired with rich sauces began to emerge as families sought comfort and nourishment during economic hardships, particularly during the Great Depression.

American Influence

In mid-20th century America, casseroles and one-pot meals gained immense popularity. These dishes were easy to prepare, economical, and filling—perfect for feeding large families. Recipes combining chicken, cream-based sauces, and noodles began appearing in cookbooks as staples for busy home cooks.

The addition of egg noodles to chicken dishes likely stemmed from their ease of preparation and availability. This combination became iconic in comfort food, especially in the Midwest and Southern United States.

Modern Evolution

Today, creamy chicken over egg noodles is a global favorite. It has been customized with various herbs, spices, and additional ingredients like mushrooms, peas, or spinach. It represents the perfect marriage of rich, creamy sauces and tender chicken, served over a bed of hearty noodles.

This dish embodies the history of resourceful cooking and cultural adaptation, evolving from simple roots to a versatile and flavorful meal loved worldwide. Its comforting qualities and rich flavors ensure it remains a timeless classic

Benefits

  1. Protein-Packed: Chicken provides a lean source of protein essential for muscle repair and energy.
  2. Rich in Calcium: The creamy sauce adds a dose of calcium, benefiting bone health.
  3. Comfort Food: A perfect dish to lift spirits with its warm and satisfying flavors.

This dish isn’t just comforting; it also offers a variety of health and wellness benefits:

1. High Protein Content

Chicken is a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall energy. A single serving provides a substantial amount of protein to keep you full and energized.

2. Bone and Joint Health

The heavy cream and butter in the sauce offer calcium and vitamin D, which are vital for maintaining strong bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. Substituting with fortified alternatives can enhance these benefits even further.

3. Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates

Egg noodles provide complex carbohydrates, which serve as a steady source of energy. They’re an excellent option for fueling your body during a busy day or after a workout.

4. Heart-Healthy Herbs and Spices

The garlic, thyme, and parsley used in the sauce are not only flavorful but also packed with antioxidants that support heart health, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity.

5. Balanced Nutrition

This dish provides a good balance of macronutrients:

  • Protein from chicken.
  • Fats from the creamy sauce, which can be moderated by using lighter options.
  • Carbohydrates from the noodles, giving you sustained energy.

Pairing it with vegetables like steamed broccoli, spinach, or asparagus can further increase its fiber and micronutrient content.

6. Comfort and Mental Wellness

Comfort foods like this dish can stimulate the production of serotonin, the feel-good hormone, reducing stress and improving overall mood.

7. Easy to Customize for Health Goals

  • For weight management, use whole wheat or low-carb noodles, and swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or unsweetened almond milk.
  • For keto-friendly diets, serve the chicken with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles.

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a wholesome and nourishing meal for you and your loved ones

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~520 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 780mg

Macronutrients

  • Calories: ~520 kcal
  • Protein: ~35g
  • Carbohydrates: ~40g
  • Fat: ~25g
  • Fiber: ~2g

Vitamins & Minerals

  • Calcium: ~10% of daily recommended intake (from the cream and butter)
  • Iron: ~15% of daily recommended intake (from chicken and egg noodles)
  • Vitamin A: ~20% (from butter and parsley)
  • Vitamin C: ~5% (from fresh herbs and garlic)
  • Potassium: ~400mg (from chicken and garlic)
  • Sodium: ~780mg (varies based on broth and seasonings used)

How to Make It Healthier

  1. Reduce Calories: Use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream.
  2. Lower Sodium: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and adjust seasoning.
  3. Boost Fiber: Use whole wheat egg noodles or serve with a side of steamed vegetables.
  4. Healthy Fats: Replace butter with olive oil or ghee for a healthier fat source.

This balanced meal provides a mix of essential nutrients while being adaptable to various dietary preferences

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken over Egg Noodles is a dish that embodies the best of home-cooked meals. With tender chicken, luscious sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete dinner experience. This recipe is perfect for those who love simple, hearty meals that don’t compromise on flavor.

Leave a Comment