Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet
Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, al dente noodles, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The creamy sauce is packed with garlic flavor, making it a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that clings to every noodle
- Tender chicken pieces bursting with flavor
- Quick and easy to make in just one skillet
A One-Pan Wonder
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Perfectly crafted for busy weeknights, this dish combines the richness of cream with the savory notes of garlic and tender chicken. The best part? It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. With minimal effort, you can serve a dish that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare.
The beauty of one-pan meals lies in their versatility. You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers to enhance its nutritional value and flavor profile. This flexibility ensures that you can cater to your family’s preferences while enjoying a sumptuous meal that doesn't compromise on taste.
Flavorful Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is key to elevating the flavor of this dish. The combination of garlic and butter creates a fragrant base that not only complements the chicken but also infuses the entire dish with a delightful aroma. Opt for high-quality chicken broth and heavy cream to ensure your sauce is as rich and creamy as possible. These ingredients work harmoniously to create a sauce that clings to every noodle, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Don’t forget the Italian seasoning! This blend of herbs adds depth and complexity to the dish. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra layer of taste. By choosing the right ingredients, you ensure that your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is not just a meal but a celebration of flavors.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this skillet meal is sure to impress. Its creamy, comforting nature appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a reliable choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick enough to whip up on a weeknight yet elegant enough to serve during a special get-together.
Pair this dish with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a meal that not only satisfies hunger but also brings people together, making memories around the dinner table. The ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your creamy garlic chicken and noodles skillet:
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious creamy garlic chicken and noodles:
Cook the Noodles
In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Combine
Add the cooked noodles and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken and noodles skillet!
This dish is best served warm and can be paired with a fresh salad or garlic bread!
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken cooks evenly, make sure to dice the pieces into similar sizes. This will help achieve that perfect golden brown color while keeping them juicy and tender. If you're short on time, you can also use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to speed up the process without sacrificing flavor.
For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic. Let it reduce for a minute before adding the broth and cream. This addition will elevate the dish, providing a sophisticated touch that enhances the overall flavor.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken when chilled, but it can easily be loosened with a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating. Just warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can also be frozen for future meals. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal anytime you crave comfort food.
Variations to Try
Feel free to make this dish your own by adding different proteins or vegetables. Shrimp or sautéed mushrooms can be excellent substitutes for chicken, offering a different flavor profile while maintaining the creamy texture. You can also toss in some broccoli or zucchini for a nutritious boost.
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a plant-based cream if you're looking for a dairy-free option. These variations allow you to enjoy this delicious recipe while accommodating various dietary needs and preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or penne.
→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter to make it lighter.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to the skillet for added nutrition and flavor.
Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, al dente noodles, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Italian seasoning and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the cooked noodles and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken and noodles skillet!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 670mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 20g