Comfort food lovers will adore this Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes recipe. It combines two classic favorites into one satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with savory noodles while creamy mashed potatoes add the perfect touch of warmth and heartiness.
This dish is easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings both flavor and comfort to the table. Let’s dive into making this delicious, homey meal that’s sure to become a staple in our recipe collection.
Ingredients
To create our mouthwatering Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes dish, we carefully select fresh and simple ingredients that blend perfectly. Below are the essentials broken down for each component.
Ingredients for Chicken Noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (preferably rotisserie or boiled)
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium for balanced flavor)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk for richness
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a savory finish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- Chives or parsley, finely chopped (optional for garnish)
| Ingredient Category | Item | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Noodles | Cooked chicken | 2 cups | Shredded or diced |
| Egg noodles | 8 ounces | ||
| Olive oil or unsalted butter | 1 tablespoon | ||
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped | |
| Garlic cloves | 2 | Minced | |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | Low sodium preferred | |
| Heavy cream or whole milk | 1/2 cup | For richness | |
| Dried thyme or Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon | ||
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Freshly ground black pepper | |
| Parmesan cheese (optional) | 1/4 cup | Grated | |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish | Chopped | |
| Mashed Potatoes | Russet potatoes | 4 large | Peeled and cubed |
| Whole milk or heavy cream | 1/2 cup | Warmed | |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | ||
| Salt | To taste | ||
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste | ||
| Sour cream or cream cheese (optional) | 2 tablespoons | For extra creaminess | |
| Chives or parsley (optional) | For garnish | Finely chopped |
Equipment Needed
To craft our Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes recipe flawlessly, proper equipment ensures smooth preparation and exceptional results. Here’s what we need to gather before cooking:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil potatoes for mashing; cook egg noodles |
| Medium Saucepan | Prepare the chicken noodles sauce |
| Colander | Drain noodles and potatoes |
| Potato Masher or Ricer | Achieve creamy, lump-free mashed potatoes |
| Wooden Spoon or Spatula | Stir and combine ingredients without scratching |
| Chef’s Knife | Dice onions and mince garlic |
| Cutting Board | Safe prep surface for chopping |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate measurement of liquids and seasonings |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine ingredients if needed for garnishing or mixing |
| Serving Dish or Platter | Present chicken noodles and mashed potatoes elegantly |
Tip: Using a heavy-bottomed saucepan maintains even heat distribution while cooking our rich chicken noodle sauce for consistent flavor and texture.
Our well-prepared kitchen setup lets us focus on creating the rich flavors and comforting textures that define this beloved Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes dish.
Prep Work
Getting started with our Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes recipe means tackling a few key prep tasks. Let’s organize the process to keep everything smooth and efficient.
Preparing the Chicken
- Use 2 cups of cooked chicken, either shredded or diced for even cooking and easy mixing with the noodles.
- If starting with raw chicken, season it with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat using olive oil or unsalted butter until golden and fully cooked. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Set the cooked chicken aside and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before shredding or chopping finely.
- Reserve any pan drippings for adding flavor to the sauce.
Chopping Vegetables for Noodles
- Take 1 medium onion and finely dice it for a mellow yet distinct base flavor.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic, releasing their fragrant aroma to infuse the sauce beautifully.
- For fresh herbs like parsley, chop roughly to use as garnish later.
- Keep vegetables and herbs separate; the onion and garlic will cook down in the sauce, while parsley adds freshness at the end.
Washing and Peeling Potatoes
- Select 4 large russet potatoes for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes with excellent texture.
- Thoroughly wash potatoes under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Peel the potatoes completely, removing any blemishes or eyes to ensure a smooth mash.
- Cut peeled potatoes into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes to promote even boiling and faster cooking.
- Place potatoes in cold water to prevent oxidation while prepping other ingredients.
| Prep Task | Key Details | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Preparation | Season, cook 6-8 min per side, rest 5 min | Use pan drippings to enrich sauce |
| Vegetable Chopping | Dice onion finely, mince garlic, chop parsley | Keep herbs separate for garnish |
| Potato Washing/Peeling | Peel, cube 1–1.5 inches, soak in cold water | Use russet potatoes for best creamy texture |
By organizing our prep work efficiently we ensure a seamless cooking experience and a perfectly balanced meal.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare our Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes recipe perfectly every time. We will start by cooking the chicken noodles, then move on to the creamy mashed potatoes.
Cooking the Chicken Noodles
- Heat the fat: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil or unsalted butter in a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sauté aromatics: Add 1 medium finely diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add cooked chicken: Stir in 2 cups of pre-cooked, shredded chicken. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm and absorb the flavors.
- Deglaze with broth: Pour in 1½ cups of chicken broth to the pan. Scrape the bottom gently to loosen any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the noodles: Meanwhile, cook 8 ounces of egg noodles separately in salted boiling water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Add cream and seasoning: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or whole milk. Season with 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine noodles and sauce: Fold the drained noodles into the sauce gently. Heat through for 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Finish with cheese and herbs: Remove from heat and stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving.
Making the Mashed Potatoes
- Prepare the potatoes: Place 4 large peeled and cubed russet potatoes into a large pot. Cover with cold water by 1 inch and add a pinch of salt.
- Boil until tender: Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Reduce to medium and cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and steam dry: Drain potatoes thoroughly using a colander. Return potatoes to the pot and heat gently for 1-2 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Mash to desired texture: Use a potato masher to break down potatoes until smooth or slightly chunky based on preference.
- Add richness: Stir in ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream and 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. For extra creaminess, fold in 2 tablespoons sour cream or cream cheese if using.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh finish.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked shredded chicken | 2 cups | Use leftover or rotisserie chicken |
| Egg noodles | 8 ounces | Cook until al dente |
| Olive oil or butter | 2 tbsp | For sautéeing aromatics |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced | Finely diced for perfect flavor release |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Adds aromatic depth |
| Chicken broth | 1½ cups | Base of sauce |
| Heavy cream or whole milk | ½ cup + ½ cup | For sauce and mashed potatoes respectively |
| Dried thyme or Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Herbaceous seasoning |
| Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup (optional) | Adds umami richness |
| Russet potatoes | 4 large | Best for creamy texture |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp | Enriches mashed potatoes |
| Salt | 1½ tsp total | To taste |
| Black pepper | ¾ tsp total | To taste |
| Sour cream or cream cheese | 2 tbsp (optional) | For extra creaminess in mashed potatoes |
| Fresh parsley or chives | For garnish | Adds fresh aroma and vibrant color |
This careful blend of ingredients and cooking steps guarantees a comforting plate of Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes, rich in flavors and textures.
Assembly and Serving
Once we have perfectly cooked our Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes, it’s time to assemble and serve this comforting meal. Paying attention to the combination and presentation will enhance the dining experience.
Combining the Dish
To create a harmonious plate, we start by placing a generous scoop of the creamy mashed potatoes at the center of the plate. Next, we ladle the warm, savory chicken noodles right alongside or slightly overlapping the potatoes. This pairing allows the rich sauce from the chicken noodles to mingle slightly with the potatoes, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors in every bite.
Our goal is to maintain balance, so neither element overpowers the other. The fluffy mashed potatoes act as a perfect base to soak up the luscious, herb-infused sauce from the chicken noodles. For an inviting and hearty meal, we recommend serving the dish on wide, shallow plates or shallow bowls to keep the components distinct yet complementary.
Garnishing and Presentation
Finishing touches make a big difference. We sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over both the chicken noodles and mashed potatoes to add a fresh, vibrant green color and mild herbal note. For extra richness and visual appeal, we may optionally grate Parmesan cheese over the noodles just before serving.
Here is a quick overview of garnishing options:
| Garnish | Purpose | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | Adds color and mild herbal flavor | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Fresh chives | Provides a subtle onion note | 1 tablespoon, sliced |
| Parmesan cheese | Adds umami richness | 1-2 tablespoons grated |
When plating, we make sure to wipe any drips off the edges for a clean look. Serving immediately while the dish is hot ensures the best texture and flavor intensity. Together, these thoughtful assembly and garnish steps highlight the comforting essence of our Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes recipe and make it irresistible to enjoy.
Make-Ahead Tips
To save time and maintain the rich flavors of our Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes recipe, we can prepare several components ahead. Here’s how to streamline your cooking without compromising quality.
Preparing Chicken and Noodles in Advance
- Cook the chicken fully and shred or dice it.
- Sauté the aromatics (onion and garlic) and combine with chicken, broth, cream, and seasonings.
- Let the chicken noodles cool completely before storing.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- When ready to serve, gently reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
Making Mashed Potatoes Ahead
- Boil and mash the potatoes following the recipe instructions.
- Add butter and cream but hold off on any fresh herb garnishes to keep them bright.
- Transfer mashed potatoes to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating Mashed Potatoes
- Warm gradually over low heat on the stovetop or microwave in short intervals.
- Stir in extra cream or butter as needed to restore creamy texture and avoid dryness.
Storing and Freezing Tips
| Component | Storage Method | Shelf Life | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Noodles | Airtight container | 2 days refrigerated | Reheat gently to avoid sauce splitting |
| Mashed Potatoes | Airtight container | 3 days refrigerated | Reheat adding cream or butter to refresh texture |
| Mashed Potatoes | Freezer-safe bag | Up to 1 month freezer | Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating |
Final Thoughts on Make-Ahead Preparation
“Properly storing and reheating each element preserves the comforting flavors and creamy textures we love in this dish. Preparing these portions in advance means trouble-free weeknight meals without losing the home-cooked charm.”
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure the Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes stay just as delicious and satisfying whenever we serve them.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
To keep our Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes fresh and flavorful, proper storage and reheating are essential. Here’s how we can ensure every bite tastes just like the first.
Storage Guidelines
- Chicken Noodles: After cooking, allow the noodles and sauce to cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container. We recommend using the chicken noodles within 2 days to maintain peak quality.
- Mashed Potatoes: Once mashed and enriched with butter and cream, cool completely before storing. Place them in a separate airtight container. Mashed potatoes can safely be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Always store both components in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
| Component | Storage Type | Maximum Refrigeration Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Noodles | Airtight container | 2 days |
| Mashed Potatoes | Airtight container | 3 days |
Reheating Instructions
Reheating is the key to preserving the creaminess and comfort of our dish. Follow these tips for the best results:
Chicken Noodles
- Place the chicken noodles in a microwave-safe dish or skillet.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce, preventing drying out.
- Heat on medium power, stirring every 30 seconds for even warming.
- Continue until steaming hot throughout, about 2-3 minutes in the microwave or 5 minutes on the stove.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or optional Parmesan after reheating for fresh flavor.
“Always add a little liquid before reheating to restore the delicate sauce texture.”
Mashed Potatoes
- Transfer mashed potatoes to a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan.
- For microwave: Cover loosely and heat on medium power. Stir every minute to redistribute heat and moisture.
- For stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a teaspoon of cream or butter if they seem dry.
- Heat until soft, creamy, and hot throughout, approximately 3-4 minutes in the microwave or 5-7 minutes on stovetop.
| Component | Reheating Method | Tips | Approximate Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Noodles | Microwave or stovetop | Add broth or cream, stir often | 2-5 minutes |
| Mashed Potatoes | Microwave or stovetop | Stir frequently, add cream/butter if needed | 3-7 minutes |
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare and store components separately for best texture upon reheating.
- Cool dishes completely before refrigeration to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- To freeze, wrap tightly and use within 1 month, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently to retain the creamy, comforting qualities of our Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes.
By following these storage and reheating instructions, we preserve the rich taste and satisfying textures of our cherished comfort meal, making every serving a delight.
Conclusion
This Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both familiar and special. It’s a dish that fits perfectly into our busy lives without sacrificing comfort or flavor.
Whether we’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a reliable go-to that warms the heart and satisfies the appetite. With easy prep and make-ahead options, it’s designed to make mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.
We’re confident this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen just as it has in ours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes?
You need cooked chicken, egg noodles, olive oil or butter, onion, garlic, chicken broth, cream or milk, seasonings, potatoes, butter, milk or cream, and optional garnishes like Parmesan cheese, parsley, sour cream, or chives.
What equipment is necessary to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling potatoes and cooking noodles, a medium saucepan for the sauce, a colander to drain, and a potato masher for creamy mashed potatoes.
How do I prepare the chicken for the recipe?
Season the chicken, cook it thoroughly, rest it for juiciness, then chop or shred it. Use pan drippings to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
What type of potatoes should I use for mashed potatoes?
Russet potatoes are best as they give a creamy texture when mashed.
Can I make this meal in advance?
Yes, you can cook and shred the chicken, prepare the chicken noodles and mashed potatoes ahead, and store them in airtight containers for up to 2-3 days.
How should I reheat the Chicken Noodles and Mashed Potatoes?
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a bit of liquid (milk or broth) to restore creaminess and heat evenly.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
Place a scoop of mashed potatoes in the center of a shallow plate, ladle warm chicken noodles on the side, and garnish with fresh herbs or cheese.
Are there any garnish suggestions for this recipe?
Fresh parsley or chives add color and flavor, and grated Parmesan cheese adds richness if desired.
Is this recipe suitable for family dinners?
Absolutely! It’s simple, comforting, and uses common ingredients, making it perfect for family meals any night.
How do I ensure the mashed potatoes are creamy?
Boil potatoes evenly, mash thoroughly, and mix in butter and cream or milk until smooth and creamy.