Creamy Baked Chicken with Egg Noodles. Discover the ultimate comfort food with our creamy baked chicken and egg noodles recipe. Perfectly rich and satisfying for any family dinner.
Indulge in this hearty Creamy Baked Chicken with Egg Noodles recipe. Tender chicken, rich cream sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles in one delicious dish.
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Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Baked Chicken and Egg Noodles recipe. Easy one-dish meal perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
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Transform your dinner routine with this savory Creamy Baked Chicken with Egg Noodles. Features succulent chicken breast, creamy sauce, and tender pasta.
Recipe Overview
This Creamy Baked Chicken with Egg Noodles is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked egg noodles in a rich, velvety cream sauce. This one-dish wonder brings together the best of both worlds: the convenience of a casserole and the sophistication of a restaurant-quality meal. The dish features seasoned chicken breasts that are seared to golden perfection before being nestled atop a bed of egg noodles and enveloped in a luxurious cream sauce infused with herbs and aromatics.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and the way it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The egg noodles provide the perfect base, absorbing all the wonderful flavors while maintaining their tender texture. The cream sauce, enriched with chicken broth and enhanced with carefully selected seasonings, creates a harmonious blend that complements the chicken beautifully. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, yet elegant enough to serve to guests.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
For the Egg Noodles:
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
- 2 tablespoons butter
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Optional Vegetables:
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
Equipment Needed
- Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
Detailed Instructions
Step 1: Preparation and Setup
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks through evenly while allowing the top to develop a beautiful golden-brown color. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and equipment, as this recipe moves quickly once you start cooking. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, which helps ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed rosemary. This aromatic blend will create a flavorful crust on the chicken and infuse it with layers of taste. Rub this seasoning mixture generously over both sides of each chicken breast, pressing gently to help the spices adhere to the meat. The combination of herbs and spices not only adds flavor but also creates an appealing color when the chicken is seared.
Step 3: Searing the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them, allowing a golden-brown crust to form. This searing process is crucial as it locks in the juices and creates a depth of flavor that will permeate the entire dish. Flip the chicken breasts and sear for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
Step 4: Cooking the Egg Noodles
While the chicken is searing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt in the water seasons the noodles from the inside out, ensuring they have flavor throughout. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, but reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes since they will continue cooking in the oven. This prevents the noodles from becoming mushy in the final dish. Drain the noodles and toss them with butter to prevent sticking and add richness.
Step 5: Creating the Creamy Sauce Base
Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, tenting with foil to keep warm. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter for the sauce. The fond (browned bits) left from the chicken will add incredible flavor to the sauce. Once the butter melts, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Step 6: Building the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to eliminate the raw flour taste and create a smooth base for the sauce. The roux should be light golden in color and have a nutty aroma. This step is essential for preventing lumps in the final sauce and ensuring a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 7: Adding Liquids and Seasonings
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, adding it slowly to prevent lumps from forming. The mixture will seem thin at first, but it will thicken as it cooks. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Once it begins to thicken, slowly add the heavy cream, continuing to whisk. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready. Stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that the cheese will add additional saltiness later.
Step 8: Assembling the Dish
Add the cooked egg noodles to the creamy sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand. If you’re using optional vegetables like peas or mushrooms, fold them in now. The vegetables will cook through during the baking process, adding color, nutrition, and texture to the dish. Spread the noodle mixture evenly in the skillet, creating a level surface for the chicken to rest on.
Step 9: Final Assembly and Topping
Nestle the seared chicken breasts on top of the noodle mixture, spacing them evenly. In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and panko breadcrumbs. Drizzle the melted butter over this mixture and toss to combine. This topping will create a golden, crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the entire dish, ensuring good coverage.
Step 10: Baking Process
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. The top should be golden brown and bubbling around the edges. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with aluminum foil. The baking process allows all the flavors to meld together while finishing the cooking of the chicken and creating that irresistible golden top.
Step 11: Resting and Serving
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier. The dish should be bubbling and aromatic, with the cheese melted and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
Chicken Preparation
For the most tender results, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 3/4 inch. This ensures even cooking and prevents the thinner parts from drying out while the thicker portions finish cooking. If your chicken breasts are particularly large, you can slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
Sauce Consistency
The key to a perfect cream sauce is patience and constant stirring. If your sauce becomes too thick, gradually add more chicken broth or cream until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, continue simmering until it reduces and thickens naturally.
Cheese Selection
While sharp cheddar provides excellent flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère for a more sophisticated taste, or a blend of cheeses for complexity. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
Make-Ahead Options
This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking and add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Variations
While chicken breast is traditional, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor and more tender texture. Turkey breast or even pork tenderloin work well with this preparation method.
Pasta Alternatives
If egg noodles aren’t available, wide ribbon pasta like pappardelle or fettuccine work excellently. Rice or orzo can also be substituted for a different texture profile.
Dietary Modifications
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. For gluten-free preparation, use cornstarch instead of flour for the roux and gluten-free pasta.
Nutritional Information
This hearty dish provides approximately 650-750 calories per serving, with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The chicken provides lean protein while the cream sauce adds richness and satisfaction. The egg noodles contribute complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Creamy Baked Chicken with Egg Noodles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the oven method better preserves the texture of the topping.
Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Chicken with Egg Noodles represents the perfect marriage of comfort and sophistication. The combination of tender, perfectly seasoned chicken with rich, creamy noodles creates a dish that satisfies on every level. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its incredible flavor, but in its versatility and the way it brings people together around the dinner table.
FAQ
Can you use egg noodles in chicken alfredo?
Medium Egg Noodles, the perfect pasta choice for Chicken Alfredo, are smooth, ribbon-like strands that effortlessly cradle the sauce. They have a slightly wider profile than traditional spaghetti, allowing them to soak up and hold onto the Alfredo sauce, making every bite an explosion of flavor.
What can I make with egg noodles and cream of mushroom soup?
Creamy ground beef and egg noodles is a quick weeknight meal that is so versatile and delicious! Ground beef, corn, egg noodles, onion, garlic and cream of mushroom soup topped with cheese makes for a delicious meal for the entire family! This freezes very well, and has many substitution options.
How to cook noodles with chicken?
Combine chicken broth, both condensed soups, and diced chicken in a large pot. Season with onion powder, seasoning salt, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil over high heat and stir in noodles. Reduce heat to low and simmer until desired consistency is reached, 20 to 30 minutes.M
Are egg noodles healthy?
Are Egg Noodles Healthy? Egg noodles can give you extra nutrients that regular pasta won’t, though they also lack in some areas compared to pasta. Still, you don’t have to choose only one. Add both to your pantry for a well-rounded diet and supplement each with vegetables, proteins, and other sources of nutrients.
