Comfort food lovers rejoice! Our Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes recipe brings together two classic favorites into one satisfying meal. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken and perfectly cooked noodles with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner that feels like a warm hug.
Originating from traditional home-cooked meals, this recipe is all about simplicity and taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, it’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this comforting combo that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
To create a delicious Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes meal, we carefully select fresh and flavorful ingredients that bring out the best in each component. Below you will find everything we need to prepare this classic comfort dish.
Ingredients for Chicken Noodles
- 2 cups egg noodles (wide or medium)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced thin
- 2 celery stalks, sliced thin
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt, adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Russet potatoes | 2 lbs | Peeled and cut into chunks |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp | Softened |
| Whole milk | 1/2 cup | Warm |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp | Freshly ground |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp (optional) | For a subtle flavor |
| Chives | 2 tbsp, chopped | Optional garnish |
By using fresh ingredients such as chicken breasts, egg noodles, and creamy russet potatoes, along with aromatic herbs like thyme and parsley, we ensure each bite delivers comfort and rich flavor. Together these ingredients create the perfect balance between our savory chicken noodle dish and fluffy mashed potatoes.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes Recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment is essential. Below we list all the tools that will ensure smooth cooking and perfect results.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large Pot
For boiling the russet potatoes and cooking the egg noodles efficiently.
- Medium Saucepan
Ideal for simmering the boneless chicken breasts along with vegetables and chicken broth.
- Colander
To drain cooked noodles and potatoes easily without losing any.
- Mixing Bowls
Multiple sizes will help us mix ingredients separately and prepare the mashed potatoes thoroughly.
- Potato Masher or Ricer
To achieve the perfect creamy texture for our mashed potatoes.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements guarantee consistent flavor balance in both dishes.
- Cutting Board
Durable surface for chopping onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Chef’s Knife
Sharp and reliable for dicing and slicing ingredients precisely.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Useful for stirring the chicken noodles without scratching cookware.
- Serving Dish or Platter
For presenting our comforting meal in an inviting way.
Equipment Table at a Glance
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boiling potatoes and cooking noodles |
| Medium Saucepan | Cooking chicken and simmering broth |
| Colander | Draining noodles and potatoes |
| Mixing Bowls | Preparing ingredients and mixing mashed potatoes |
| Potato Masher or Ricer | Creating smooth and creamy mashed potatoes |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensuring precise ingredient quantities |
| Cutting Board | Chopping vegetables and poultry |
| Chef’s Knife | Dicing and slicing ingredients |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stirring to prevent sticking |
| Serving Dish | Attractive serving of final dish |
By assembling these tools before we begin, we streamline our workflow, helping us focus on the delicious flavors of this classic comfort food combo. Having everything ready helps us cook with confidence and efficiency.
Prep Work
Efficient Prep Work sets the foundation for our Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes recipe. Let’s organize our ingredients and get each component ready to cook seamlessly.
Preparing the Chicken and Noodles
- Dice 1 medium onion finely to release savory sweetness while cooking.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic to infuse bold aroma and flavor into the broth.
- Slice 2 medium carrots and 2 celery stalks into thin rounds for even cooking.
- Cut 1 lb boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure tenderness.
- Measure 8 oz egg noodles to cook until al dente.
- Have 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter ready for sautéing the aromatics and chicken.
- Keep 4 cups chicken broth at hand for simmering and flavor extraction.
- Set out dried thyme, salt, and black pepper for seasoning precisely.
- Optional: chop fresh parsley for garnish.
Starting with diced onion and garlic allows us to build a deep flavor base, followed by sautéing the chicken until just cooked. Toss in carrots and celery to soften slightly before adding broth and thyme. As the broth simmers, prepare the noodles separately, then combine everything for a unified, rich chicken noodle dish.
Preparing the Potatoes
- Peel and quarter 2 lbs of russet potatoes to ensure uniform cooking.
- Place potatoes in cold water immediately to prevent discoloration.
- Prepare 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for creamy richness.
- Warm ½ cup milk to help achieve smooth mashed potatoes.
- Measure salt and black pepper precisely for seasoning.
- Optional: set aside garlic powder for added depth.
- Optional: chop fresh chives for garnish.
Chilling peeled potatoes slows enzymatic browning while speeding up cooking prep. By cutting potatoes evenly and soaking them, we ensure they boil at the same rate. Warming the milk ahead prevents cooling the potatoes during mashing, maintaining ideal temperature and texture.
| Ingredient | Prep Action | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onion | Dice | 1 medium | Flavor base |
| Garlic | Mince | 2 cloves | Aroma and depth |
| Carrots | Slice | 2 medium | Texture and subtle sweetness |
| Celery | Slice | 2 stalks | Crunch and freshness |
| Chicken breasts | Cut into pieces | 1 lb | Uniform cooking |
| Egg noodles | Measure | 8 oz | Al dente noodles |
| Olive oil or butter | Measure | 1 tbsp | Sauté base |
| Chicken broth | Measure | 4 cups | Simmer liquid |
| Thyme, salt, pepper | Season | To taste | Flavor balance |
| Russet potatoes | Peel and quarter | 2 lbs | Even boiling |
| Unsalted butter | Measure | 4 tbsp | Creaminess |
| Warm milk | Warm and measure | ½ cup | Texture |
| Garlic powder | Optional seasoning | To taste | Depth of flavor |
| Fresh parsley, chives | Optional garnish | Chopped, as desired | Fresh herbal notes |
By meticulously following these preparation steps for the chicken noodles and mashed potatoes, we streamline cooking and maximize flavor in every step.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to prepare our Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes dish perfectly. We’ll start with the tender, flavorful chicken noodles, then move on to the creamy mashed potatoes that complete this comforting meal.
Cooking the Chicken Noodles
- Heat the fat: In a medium saucepan, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté aromatics: Add 1 finely diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup sliced carrots, and 1 cup sliced celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add 1 lb boneless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is lightly browned and cooked through.
- Add seasonings: Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in 4 cups chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook gently for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Cook the noodles: Meanwhile, in a separate large pot, boil 8 oz egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the chicken and broth mixture. Stir gently to combine and warm through for 2 minutes.
- Optional garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for an extra burst of color and freshness.
Making the Mashed Potatoes
- Prepare potatoes: Peel and quarter 2 lbs russet potatoes. Soak in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Boil potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and dry: Drain potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Return them to the hot pot and place over low heat for 1-2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
- Mash: Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Enrich: Stir in 4 tablespoons unsalted butter and ½ cup warm milk gradually, until the desired creamy texture forms.
- Season: Add ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder if desired. Mix well.
- Garnish: Finish with chopped fresh chives for a mild onion flavor and appealing look.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil or butter | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Onion | 1 | Finely diced |
| Garlic cloves | 2 | Minced |
| Carrots | 1 cup | Sliced |
| Celery | 1 cup | Sliced |
| Boneless chicken breasts | 1 lb | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp | |
| Salt | 1½ tsp (total) | Divided between dishes |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp (total) | Divided between dishes |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | |
| Egg noodles | 8 oz | Cooked al dente |
| Russet potatoes | 2 lbs | Peeled, quartered, soaked |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp | Room temperature |
| Warm milk | ½ cup | |
| Garlic powder (optional) | Pinch | |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish | Chopped |
| Fresh chives | For garnish | Chopped |
By following these detailed instructions, we ensure our Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes meal is perfectly balanced with savory flavors and creamy textures.
Assembling the Dish
Now that we have perfectly cooked chicken noodles and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s time to bring this comforting meal together. Careful assembly ensures that each bite delivers the rich, satisfying flavors and textures we aimed for.
Serving Suggestions
To serve our Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes Recipe with style and balance, follow these tips:
- Plate Presentation:
Arrange a generous scoop of fluffy mashed potatoes on one side of the plate. Pile the savory chicken noodle mixture beside it, allowing the noodles and chicken to slightly mingle with the edge of the potatoes.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken noodles and finely chopped chives over the mashed potatoes. This adds a pop of color and bright herbal notes that complement the dish’s richness.
- Add a Touch of Sauce or Gravy:
Drizzle a spoonful of warm chicken broth or homemade gravy over the mashed potatoes for extra moisture and flavor. The broth penetrates the potatoes adding comforting warmth to each bite.
- Complementary Sides:
Consider serving this dish alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for added texture and freshness. A lightly dressed arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully.
| Component | Serving Tip | Flavor/Texture Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Scoop with a slight well on top | Holds gravy or broth to enhance creaminess |
| Chicken Noodles | Spoon next to mashed potatoes, garnish | Personalized herb brightness and color |
| Broth/Gravy | Drizzle lightly over potatoes | Adds moisture and intensified savoriness |
| Fresh Herbs | Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley/chives | Brightens rich flavors and adds aroma |
“Serving this dish with thoughtful garnishes and accompaniments transforms it from simple comfort food into an inviting, well-rounded meal everyone will love.“
By assembling the components carefully and using these serving suggestions, we ensure that every plate delivers the perfect harmony between tender chicken, flavorful noodles, and luscious mashed potatoes.
Tips and Variations
To elevate our Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes recipe, we have curated essential tips and creative variations that enhance flavor, texture, and presentation.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh chicken breasts and vegetables for the best flavor. Fresh carrots, celery, and parsley add vibrant color and taste.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook egg noodles al dente to retain a slight firmness that complements the creamy mashed potatoes.
- Consistent Potato Size: Cut russet potatoes into uniform pieces (about 1.5 inches) for even boiling and smooth mashing.
- Warm the Milk: Add warm milk gradually to mashed potatoes to prevent them from becoming gluey and to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go, especially with salt and pepper, to balance the savory notes in both chicken noodles and mashed potatoes.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
Variations to Customize Your Meal
| Variation Type | Description | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Swap | Substitute chicken breasts with turkey, or diced ham for a smoky flavor. | Adjust cooking time based on protein density |
| Noodle Alternatives | Use whole wheat noodles, zucchini noodles, or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences. | Ensure alternative noodles do not overcook; cook al dente |
| Mashed Potato Flavors | Add roasted garlic, cream cheese, or sour cream for richer mashed potatoes. | Start with small portions of additions; adjust to taste |
| Herb Enhancements | Incorporate rosemary, sage, or thyme in the chicken simmering broth for unique flavors. | Fresh herbs are best; add towards the end of cooking to preserve aroma |
| Vegetable Add-ins | Mix peas, corn, or green beans with the noodles for added color and nutrition. | Blanch vegetables separately to maintain texture and color |
| Gravy Variation | Create a simple pan gravy by deglazing the chicken pan with flour and broth before combining noodles. | Use unsalted butter and gradually whisk flour to avoid lumps |
Quote to Remember
“A well-executed Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes dish brings warmth and comfort to the table — simple ingredients crafted with care create unforgettable memories.”
By applying these tips and experimenting with variations, we enhance our meal’s appeal and tailor it to personal preference while maintaining its signature comfort and satisfaction.
Conclusion
This Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes recipe brings together timeless flavors in a way that feels both familiar and satisfying. It’s a meal that comforts and nourishes, perfect for any occasion when you want to enjoy something hearty and homemade.
With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, we can create a dish that’s as delicious as it is comforting. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes?
You need egg noodles, boneless chicken breasts, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, and seasonings for the chicken noodles. For mashed potatoes, use russet potatoes, unsalted butter, warm milk, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder and chives.
What kitchen tools are essential for this recipe?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling potatoes and noodles, a medium saucepan for cooking chicken and broth, a colander, mixing bowls, a potato masher or ricer, measuring cups and spoons, a cutting board, chef’s knife, and a wooden spoon or silicone spatula.
How do I prepare the chicken and vegetables for this dish?
Dice onions, mince garlic, and slice carrots and celery. Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. For potatoes, peel, quarter, and soak them to ensure even cooking.
What is the best way to cook the mashed potatoes?
Boil peeled and quartered potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and warm milk. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. For fluffier potatoes, warm the milk gradually before adding.
How should I cook the chicken noodles?
Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, then cook the chicken pieces. Add thyme, broth, salt, and pepper, and simmer. Stir in cooked egg noodles and garnish with parsley if desired.
Can I customize this recipe with other proteins or ingredients?
Yes, you can swap chicken for turkey or pork, use different noodles like fettuccine or rice noodles, add herbs like rosemary or thyme, or include extra vegetables such as peas or mushrooms.
How do I serve Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes for the best presentation?
Plate the mashed potatoes and chicken noodles side by side, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley and chives, and add a drizzle of broth or gravy. Complement with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
What tips ensure the best texture for the noodles and potatoes?
Cook noodles al dente to avoid mushiness and ensure potato pieces are similar in size for even boiling. Avoid overmixing mashed potatoes to keep them light and fluffy.
Can this recipe be made ahead for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. Reheat gently before serving to maintain flavor and texture.
Why is this Chicken Noodle and Mashed Potatoes recipe considered comfort food?
It combines tender, savory chicken and flavorful noodles with creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes, creating a warm, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or cozy nights.