There’s something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of chicken and noodles-a timeless classic that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a day when you need a little extra comfort, this hearty chicken and noodle recipe delivers rich, savory flavors paired with tender, melt-in-your-mouth textures. More than just a meal, it’s a culinary hug that brings family and friends together around the table, evoking memories of home-cooked goodness and simple joys.Join us as we explore how to craft this beloved dish, balancing wholesome ingredients and easy steps to create comfort in every bite.
Embark on a sensory journey with this rich and indulgent hearty chicken and noodle recipe, where every bite speaks of warmth, tradition, and comfort. rooted in classic homestyle cooking yet elevated by homemade noodles and a savory broth, this dish promises tender chicken enveloped in silky, freshly made noodles. drawing inspiration from rustic family kitchens, the selection of quality ingredients is paramount to unlocking depth of flavor and satisfying textures that linger long after the last spoonful.
Prep and Cook Time
- Readiness: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generous portions-perfect for sharing warmth with family or friends.
Difficulty Level
Medium: Requires some basic dough handling and layering of flavors, but entirely doable even for adventurous home cooks.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken and Broth:
- 1 whole organic chicken (about 4 lbs), cleaned and quartered
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 8 cups filtered water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- Salt to taste (start with 1 ½ tsp, adjust later)
- for the Homemade Noodles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Seasonings and Garnish:
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Lemon wedges (optional, for a luminous finish)
Instructions
- Prepare the broth: In a large heavy-bottom pot, place the quartered chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Pour in the filtered water, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat,then reduce to a simmer.
- Simmer gently: Skim off any foam that rises to the surface within the first 10 minutes. let the broth simmer uncovered for about 1 hour until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld into a rich golden liquid.
- Make the noodles dough: while the broth simmers, combine the sifted flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Create a well in the center, crack in the egg, add olive oil, and gradually mix with warm water. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic and let rest for 20 minutes.
- Strain and shred chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the broth. carefully shred the meat, discarding skin and bones. Strain the broth through a fine sieve back into the pot and keep warm on low heat.
- Roll and cut noodles: Roll the rested dough thinly (~1/16 inch) on a floured surface. using a sharp knife or pasta cutter, slice into thin ribbons about ¼ inch wide.Toss noodles lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
- Cook the noodles in broth: Bring the strained broth to a gentle boil again. Add the noodles in batches, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes or until al dente.Stir occasionally to prevent clumping.
- Reintroduce shredded chicken and seasonings: Add shredded chicken back into the pot along with butter, chopped parsley, and salt to taste.Stir gently to combine and warm through for 2 minutes.
- Final adjustments: Taste and add freshly cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the broth if desired. remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ingredient quality matters: Using organic chicken and fresh vegetables enhances depth and clarity in your broth.
- Dough hydration: Add warm water gradually while kneading to avoid a sticky or dry noodle dough.
- Broth clarity: Skimming the foam early prevents a cloudy broth, resulting in a more refined appearance and taste.
- Make-ahead advantage: Broth and shredded chicken can be prepared a day in advance to deepen flavors overnight in the fridge.
- Customizing flavors: Add herbs like thyme or a splash of white wine to the broth for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve piping hot in deep bowls, garnished generously with fresh parsley and a few turns of fresh cracked pepper. Accompany with crusty artisan bread or a simple green salad to balance the comforting richness.For a pop of zest, offer lemon wedges on the side, inviting diners to brighten the savory broth with a fresh squeeze.
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken and Noodles | 410 kcal | 38g | 38g | 8g |
For more hearty and comforting recipes,check out our classic homestyle soups. To understand the nutritional science behind soups and broths, visit the USDA official guidelines.
Q&A
Q&A: Hearty Chicken and Noodle Recipe – Comfort in Every Bite
Q1: What makes this chicken and noodle recipe so hearty and comforting?
A1: It’s all about the rich,savory broth that marries tender chicken with soft,homemade noodles. The slow simmering infuses every bite with warmth and depth, while the addition of fresh herbs and vegetables creates a bowl of nourishing goodness that feels like a warm hug from the inside.
Q2: Can I use store-bought noodles, or should I make my own?
A2: While homemade noodles do add an extra layer of love and rustic charm, store-bought egg noodles work just fine for a quick weeknight meal.The key is to cook them just right so they stay tender yet firm, soaking up the flavorful broth without turning mushy.
Q3: What cuts of chicken work best for this recipe?
A3: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or a whole chicken work wonders here. They impart a richer flavor and keep the meat juicy during the slow cooking process. For a lighter option,boneless chicken breasts can be used,though they require careful cooking to avoid drying out.
Q4: How can I customize this recipe to my taste?
A4: The beauty of this dish is its flexibility! Add your favorite veggies such as carrots, celery, or peas. Experiment with spices like thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne for a gentle kick. For a creamier texture,stir in a touch of cream or coconut milk just before serving.
Q5: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep or freezing?
A5: Absolutely! This hearty chicken and noodle soup reheats beautifully and even develops deeper flavors over time. Freeze it in portions without the noodles for best texture,then add freshly cooked noodles when ready to enjoy.
Q6: What’s the secret to achieving tender, melt-in-your-mouth chicken every time?
A6: Slow and low is the mantra. Let the chicken simmer gently in the broth, allowing the connective tissues to soften and release their collagen, which enriches the soup’s body and gives the chicken its luscious tenderness.
Q7: Can this recipe be made dairy-free or gluten-free?
A7: Yes! Use gluten-free noodles or swap noodles for spiralized vegetables like zucchini ribbons. For dairy-free,avoid adding cream and stick to a hearty broth base. Fresh herbs and lemon juice can brighten flavors without any allergens.
Q8: How long does it take to make this dish from start to finish?
A8: From prepping the ingredients to that first comforting spoonful, expect around 1 to 1.5 hours. Most of that time is spent simmering,so it’s perfect for a leisurely weekend afternoon or an unhurried evening.
Q9: What drinks pair well with a bowl of hearty chicken and noodle soup?
A9: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, malty beer complements the savory richness without overpowering it. For a non-alcoholic choice, ginger tea or sparkling water with lemon keep the palate refreshed.
Q10: Why is chicken and noodle soup such an enduring comfort food?
A10: Beyond flavor, chicken and noodle soup resonates deeply because it connects us to traditions of care and healing. it’s a global symbol of warmth, hope, and home-offering nourishment not just to the body, but to the soul.
Final Thoughts
As the steam rises from your bowl of hearty chicken and noodles, you’re not just savoring a meal-you’re embracing a timeless comfort that warms both body and soul. This recipe is more than a dish; it’s a festivity of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony, offering nourishment and nostalgia with every tender bite. Whether shared around a bustling family table or enjoyed as a quiet moment of solace, let this chicken and noodle creation be your go-to remedy for those days when comfort is key. So, gather your ingredients, stir up a pot, and relish in the cozy embrace that only a homemade meal like this can provide.
