Description
Creamy Chicken Noodle Skillet
Ingredients:
12 oz egg noodles
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup green peas
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and carrots, cooking until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Add shredded chicken and peas, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Mix in the cooked noodles and toss to coat. Garnish with parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Cook and shred your chicken if not already done. Slice carrots, mince garlic, and measure all other ingredients.
2. Cook Noodles: In a separate pot, boil egg noodles to al dente as per package. Drain and set aside. Do not overcook.
3. Start the Sauce Base: In a large, deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add carrots and garlic, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until carrots begin to soften.
4. Make the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the butter and vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 full minute to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Create the Cream Sauce: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Once smooth, whisk in the milk and heavy cream.
6. Season & Thicken: Add salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes until it noticeably thickens.
7. Combine Everything: Add the shredded chicken and peas to the sauce, stirring to warm through. Finally, add the cooked noodles and gently toss until everything is evenly coated and heated.
8. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet is a complete meal on its own. For a lighter touch, pair it with a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce. For a fresh, crunchy contrast, serve with steamed green beans or broccoli.
How-to Summary
This creamy chicken noodle skillet is a one-pan wonder. The process involves cooking noodles separately, then building a creamy sauce from a simple roux (butter, flour, and aromatics) enriched with broth, milk, and cream. Shredded chicken and vegetables are warmed in the sauce before the noodles are folded in, creating a quick, comforting, and cohesive dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes. Wide egg noodles are ideal for holding sauce, but you can use fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this dish thicker? If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. You can also create a slurry by mixing 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water and stirring it into the simmering sauce.
Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely. Frozen peas and carrots work perfectly. Add them directly from the freezer when you add the chicken; they will heat through in the sauce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. If preparing ahead, keep the sauce and noodles separate. Combine and gently reheat just before serving to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the noodles, as they will continue to soften in the hot sauce. Always cook to al dente. Do not rush the roux; cooking the flour for the full minute is crucial to avoid a raw, pasty flavor. When adding the broth, pour slowly and whisk constantly to prevent a lumpy sauce. Finally, resist the urge to boil the sauce vigorously after adding the dairy, as this can cause it to break or curdle. A gentle simmer is key.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken noodle skillet is the epitome of easy, satisfying comfort food. By mastering a simple roux-based sauce, you can create a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings everything together in one pan. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and perfect for using up leftover chicken. Follow the step-by-step guide and tips to avoid common pitfalls, and you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on the table with minimal fuss and cleanup.