CREAMY CHICKEN AND NOODLES 1 tablespoon of dry Italian salad dressing mix (I used 2 tablespoons) (8 ounce) package …
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What’s for Dinner? | NEW Easy Creamy Chicken and Noodles Recipe | Simple Dinner Ideas!
As the sun sets and the dinner hour approaches, many of us find ourselves asking that ubiquitous question: "What’s for dinner?" When life gets hectic, preparing a meal can feel daunting, but dinner doesn’t have to be a chore. If you’re looking for an easy, comforting, and delicious option for tonight’s meal, you’re in luck! Look no further than this Easy Creamy Chicken and Noodles recipe. This dish checks all the boxes for a satisfying dinner: it’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and the creamy goodness will have the whole family coming back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Whipping up this meal is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting Flavor: The creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and warm noodles is pure comfort food.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can modify the recipe with vegetables or different spices based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (leftovers work great!)
- 8 oz egg noodles (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots or your choice of veggies
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and garlic powder, allowing the mixture to bubble gently for a few minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken and the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing the chicken to heat through and the veggies to thaw. If the sauce appears too thick, feel free to add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Mix in Noodles
Gently fold the cooked noodles into the creamy chicken mixture. Toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure to adjust the flavors to your liking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is heated through, serve your creamy chicken and noodles immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Customization
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for an added nutrition boost.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheesy Goodness: For an extra creamy and cheesy dish, add a handful of shredded cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) just before serving.
Conclusion
Dinner doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming, and this Easy Creamy Chicken and Noodles recipe is proof of that! With minimal effort and a short ingredient list, you can create a satisfying and heartwarming meal that everyone will love. So the next time you find yourself pondering, “What’s for dinner?” remember this simple yet delicious recipe that will make your meal times not just easier, but more enjoyable, too! Happy cooking!