Nothing beats the comfort of classic chicken and noodles, especially when served over a creamy bed of mashed potatoes. This hearty dish combines tender, flavorful chicken with soft egg noodles and rich gravy, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. It’s the kind of recipe that warms you from the inside out and brings everyone to the table.
We love how this dish elevates simple ingredients into a comforting feast perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Whether you’re craving a homemade meal or looking for a new twist on a traditional favorite, chicken and noodles over mashed potatoes delivers on flavor and ease. Let’s dive into making this timeless comfort food that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes, we gather fresh and flavorful ingredients that bring out the hearty, comforting essence of this classic dish.
Ingredients for Chicken and Noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (preferably from roasted or poached chicken)
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk for a creamy texture
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed for best texture)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, optional
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Additional Seasonings and Garnishes
| Seasoning | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons, chopped | Adds brightness and color |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon | For subtle smoky warmth |
| Chopped chives | 1 tablespoon | Garnish with mild onion flavor |
We recommend using fresh herbs and high-quality chicken broth to maximize flavor in this nostalgic favorite. The rich butter and cream in both components tie the dish together beautifully.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken And Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes Recipe perfectly, we need to gather the right tools. Having the correct equipment streamlines the cooking process and ensures each component of the dish turns out just right.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large pot – Ideal for boiling the russet or Yukon gold potatoes and cooking the wide egg noodles.
- Colander – For draining noodles and potatoes efficiently.
- Skillet or sauté pan – To cook the chicken, onions, and garlic while developing deep savory flavors.
- Mixing bowl – For combining seasonings or prepping ingredients.
- ** potato masher** or hand mixer – To achieve creamy, lump-free mashed potatoes.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Key for accurate ingredient portions, especially for broth, butter, and seasonings.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring the egg noodles and gravy mixture without scratching cookware.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – For chopping onions, garlic, and herbs.
- Serving dish or platter – To present the Chicken And Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes warmly and invitingly.
Optional but Helpful
- Whisk – To blend broth and cream smoothly into the gravy.
- Garlic press – Speeds up garlic preparation.
- Fine sieve or strainer – For removing any lumps from gravy or broth.
- Heat-resistant gloves – For handling hot pots comfortably.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | Boil potatoes and cook egg noodles |
| Colander | Drain liquids from noodles and potatoes |
| Skillet/Sauté pan | Sauté chicken, onion, and garlic |
| Potato masher/Hand mixer | Mash potatoes smooth and creamy |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Measure liquids and seasonings accurately |
| Wooden spoon/Silicone spatula | Stir and mix ingredients safely |
| Chef’s knife & cutting board | Chop vegetables and herbs |
| Serving dish/platter | Serve the completed dish |
| Optional: Whisk | Blend gravy components smoothly |
| Optional: Garlic press | Simplify garlic preparation |
| Optional: Sieve | Remove lumps for smooth gravy |
| Optional: Gloves | Handle hot cookware safely |
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, we focus on essential Prep Work to ensure every component of our Chicken And Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes recipe comes together flawlessly. Proper preparation saves time and enhances the dish’s overall texture and flavor.
Preparing the Chicken
We begin by prepping the chicken to ensure it’s tender and flavorful. Use cooked chicken, preferably poached or roasted, and shred or cut it into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the noodles and gravy.
- If using raw chicken breasts or thighs:
- Rinse and pat dry.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat using a small amount of butter or oil, about 6-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then shred or dice.
Preparing the Noodles
Egg noodles are crucial for this recipe, and prepping them correctly makes a difference.
- Use wide egg noodles for the best texture.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 6-8 minutes).
- Drain thoroughly in a colander and toss them with a small amount of melted butter to prevent sticking.
- Set aside while preparing the gravy and potatoes.
Preparing the Potatoes
Mashed potatoes provide the comforting base for this dish. Choosing and prepping potatoes correctly is key to creamy perfection.
| Potato Type | Cooking Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Russet | 20-25 mins | Starchy, fluffy texture ideal for mashing |
| Yukon Gold | 20-25 mins | Creamy, buttery flavor and smooth texture |
Steps:
- Peel and cut potatoes into uniform chunks for even cooking.
- Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 20-25 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain well and return to the pot before mashing to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
- Mash immediately using a potato masher or hand mixer.
- Add butter, whole milk, and optional sour cream for creaminess.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s bring together the elements of our Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes with clear and precise steps. Following this guide will ensure every bite bursts with comfort and flavor.
Cooking the Chicken and Noodles
- Heat the skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter until sizzling.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Add 1 medium diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add shredded cooked chicken: Incorporate 3 cups of prepared shredded chicken into the skillet. Stir well, heating through for 3-5 minutes.
- Deglaze with chicken broth: Pour in 2 cups of high-quality chicken broth. Stir to combine and dissolve any bits sticking to the pan for flavor depth.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Incorporate heavy cream: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream to create a rich, comforting sauce. Let simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add cooked wide egg noodles: Toss in 8 ounces of cooked and butter-coated wide egg noodles. Mix gently until noodles are fully coated with the creamy chicken sauce.
- Keep warm: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the flavors marry while we prepare the mashed potatoes.
Making the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the potatoes: Place 2 pounds of peeled and cubed russet or Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain thoroughly: Use a colander to drain excess water. Return potatoes to warm pot for residual heat evaporation.
- Mash the potatoes: Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Using a potato masher or hand mixer on low, mash until smooth and creamy.
- Add dairy: Gradually stir in ½ cup of whole milk and optionally 2 tablespoons of sour cream for extra creaminess. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finish the mashed potatoes: Continue mashing until the texture is fluffy and velvety. Keep warm until serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 6 tablespoons total | Adds richness in noodles and potatoes |
| Onion | 1 medium diced | Flavor base for chicken mixture |
| Garlic | 2 cloves minced | Aromatic enhancer |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | Liquid base for sauce |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup | Creates creamy texture |
| Cooked shredded chicken | 3 cups | Protein component |
| Wide egg noodles | 8 ounces cooked | Noodle foundation |
| Potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold) | 2 pounds cubed | Mashed potatoes base |
| Whole milk | ½ cup | Creamy texture in potatoes |
| Sour cream (optional) | 2 tablespoons | Adds tangy creaminess |
| Salt | To taste | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | Herbal seasoning |
Assembling the Dish
Bringing together the components of our Chicken And Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes requires precision and care. Let’s focus on creating a visually appealing and flavor-packed plate that highlights each element’s best qualities.
Plating Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes
- Start with the base: Spoon a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes onto the center of each plate. Use the back of the spoon to create a slight well in the middle; this helps hold the chicken and noodles in place.
- Add the chicken and noodles: Carefully ladle the warm, saucy chicken and noodles mixture directly over the mashed potato well. Ensure the noodles are coated in the rich gravy for maximum flavor.
- Balance each serving: Aim for roughly equal amounts of mashed potatoes and chicken and noodles to achieve a satisfying ratio. A typical serving size is:
| Component | Quantity per Serving |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | 1 cup |
| Chicken and Noodles | 1 to 1 1/4 cups |
- Neat presentation: Wipe any drips or spills on the plate edges with a clean cloth for a polished look before moving on to garnishing.
Adding Final Touches and Garnishes
To elevate our Chicken And Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes both visually and flavor-wise, the finishing touches are crucial.
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the dish to add a burst of color and freshness.
- A dash of paprika: Lightly dust the top with paprika to introduce a subtle warmth and an inviting reddish hue.
- Cream drizzle: Optional but effective, drizzle a small amount of heavy cream or melted butter on the mashed potatoes for additional richness and sheen.
- Cracked black pepper: Finish with a few twists of freshly cracked black pepper for a sharp, aromatic contrast.
Remember the goal is to make every element — the soft mashed potatoes, tender chicken, and egg noodles in velvety sauce — shine on the plate both in taste and appearance. By following these steps, we ensure a comfort food classic that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes, presentation and complementary sides play a crucial role. Here are our top serving suggestions to elevate this hearty comfort dish:
- Create a well in the mashed potatoes: Spoon mashed potatoes onto each plate and press the center gently to form a small indentation. This creates a perfect nest for the creamy chicken and noodles, helping retain the luscious sauce.
- Generous portion of chicken and noodles: Ladle the rich, creamy chicken and noodles mixture into the potato well. The combination should balance the fluffy potatoes and saucy noodles creating each bite packed with texture and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh pop of color and brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Add a dusting of paprika: A light sprinkle of paprika adds warm aroma and subtle heat enhancing the rustic appeal.
- Drizzle heavy cream or gravy: A thin swirl of heavy cream or reserved gravy across the plate enhances the dish’s velvety texture and adds attractive gloss.
- Season with freshly cracked black pepper: Finish with cracked black pepper for a peppery kick and depth.
Complementary Sides
Pairing this meal with the right sides balances flavors and rounds out your plate:
| Side Dish | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Green Beans | Lightly steamed for crispness and color | Adds crunch and fresh herbal notes |
| Glazed Carrots | Sweet carrots with butter and a hint of brown sugar | Offers subtle sweetness to offset savory richness |
| Crisp Garden Salad | Mixed greens with vinaigrette | Adds acidity and freshness |
| Garlic Bread | Toasted bread with garlic butter and herbs | Provides a crunchy textural contrast |
Beverage Pairings
For a complete experience, consider these beverages:
- Chardonnay: A buttery, full-bodied white wine complements the creamy sauce.
- Herbal Tea: Chamomile or mint tea balances richness and refreshes the palate.
- Sparkling Water: Cleanses the palate between bites without overpowering flavors.
By thoughtfully combining textures, colors, and additional flavors, we transform our simple Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes into a memorable meal perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes with minimal hassle, planning ahead is key. Here are our top tips for prepping this comforting meal in advance without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Preparing Components Ahead
- Cook the chicken and noodles up to 2 days in advance. Store each separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep textures intact.
- Make the mashed potatoes one day ahead. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream while stirring to restore creaminess.
- Prepare the gravy and sauce base separately in advance. Reheat slowly and whisk to combine before serving.
Storage Guidelines
| Component | Storage Method | Max Storage Time | Reheating Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | Airtight container, fridge | 2 days | Warm in pan with broth to retain juiciness |
| Egg noodles | Airtight container, fridge | 2 days | Toss with butter before reheating to prevent sticking |
| Mashed potatoes | Airtight container, fridge | 1 day | Reheat gently adding cream or milk, stir well |
| Gravy/sauce | Airtight container, fridge | 2 days | Warm over low heat, whisk to smooth consistency |
Assembly Tips for Make-Ahead
We recommend storing the chicken and noodles mixed but keep the mashed potatoes separate to avoid sogginess. When ready to serve:
- Reheat mashed potatoes with cream or milk until smooth and warm.
- Warm the chicken and noodles mixture on the stove with low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Spoon the chicken and noodles over the potatoes, creating the classic well presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and a dusting of paprika just before serving.
Freezing Considerations
For longer storage freeze the chicken, noodles, and gravy together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Freeze mashed potatoes separately. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the methods above.
By following these practical Make-Ahead Tips we ensure your Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes tastes just as fresh and comforting as when first made, perfect for busy evenings or meal prep.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes recipe brings together comforting flavors and textures that satisfy every time. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into weeknight dinners or special family gatherings.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can create a meal that feels both nostalgic and elevated. Whether you’re making it fresh or prepping ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in our kitchen rotation.
Let’s enjoy the warmth and richness it brings to the table while making memorable moments with those we love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes?
You need cooked chicken, wide egg noodles, butter, onion, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, pepper, russet or Yukon gold potatoes, whole milk, and optional sour cream. Fresh herbs and garnishes like parsley, paprika, and chives add extra flavor and appeal.
What kitchen tools are essential for making this dish?
Key tools include a large pot, colander, skillet, potato masher or hand mixer, measuring cups, wooden spoon, chef’s knife, and serving dish. Optional items like a whisk, garlic press, sieve, and heat-resistant gloves can be helpful.
How do I prepare the chicken and noodles for the dish?
Shred cooked chicken, sauté onions and garlic, then add chicken and deglaze with chicken broth. Cook wide egg noodles until al dente, drain, and combine with the creamy sauce made from heavy cream and seasonings.
What type of potatoes works best for mashed potatoes?
Russet or Yukon gold potatoes are recommended for smooth, creamy mashed potatoes due to their texture and flavor when cooked and mashed.
How should I assemble Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes?
Make a well in the mashed potatoes to hold the chicken and noodles. Serve balanced portions and garnish with fresh herbs, paprika, a drizzle of cream, and cracked black pepper for presentation and enhanced flavor.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this meal?
Steamed green beans, glazed carrots, crisp garden salad, and garlic bread complement the dish well and add variety to the meal.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Cook chicken and noodles up to two days ahead, mashed potatoes a day before, and prepare gravy in advance. Store components separately and reheat gently to preserve flavor and texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store chicken and noodles separately from mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. For longer storage, freeze components separately and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What beverages pair well with Chicken and Noodles Over Mashed Potatoes?
Chardonnay, herbal tea, or sparkling water make excellent beverage choices to complement the rich, comforting flavors of this meal.