Nothing beats the comfort of a classic chicken and noodles meal, especially when paired with creamy mashed potatoes. This dish brings together tender, savory chicken and soft, flavorful noodles for a hearty experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a timeless combination that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
We love how this recipe balances rich textures and simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, you’ll find this dish easy to prepare and incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into making a chicken and noodles recipe with mashed potatoes that’s both comforting and delicious.
Ingredients
To create our Chicken And Noodles Recipe With Mashed Potatoes, we carefully select fresh and flavorful ingredients. Below are the essentials divided into the two main components of the dish to ensure clarity and ease during preparation.
Ingredients for Chicken and Noodles
We use simple ingredients that bring out the rich, comforting flavors in our chicken and noodles dish:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 medium carrots, sliced thin
- 2 celery stalks, sliced thin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes
For perfectly creamy mashed potatoes that complement our chicken and noodles we gather:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ¾ cup whole milk, warmed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
| Component | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 1 ½ pounds | Boneless, skinless, diced |
| Olive oil or butter | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Low sodium |
| Egg noodles | 8 ounces | Wide noodles preferred |
| Carrots | 2 medium | Thinly sliced |
| Celery | 2 stalks | Thinly sliced |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | For herbaceous flavor |
| Dried parsley | 1 teaspoon | Adds freshness |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons | To thicken the sauce |
| Yukon Gold potatoes | 3 pounds | Peeled and quartered |
| Whole milk | ¾ cup | Warmed for fluffiness |
| Unsalted butter | ¼ cup | For richness in mashed potatoes |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon (optional) | Adds a subtle garlic note |
| Salt | To taste | Enhances all flavors |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground preferred |
By organizing our ingredients this way, we ensure a smooth cooking experience that highlights the hearty textures and rich flavors of our chicken and noodles with mashed potatoes.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Chicken and Noodles Recipe with Mashed Potatoes efficiently, having the right equipment on hand makes the process seamless and enjoyable. Below is a detailed list of tools we need for each part of the dish.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large sauté pan or skillet | To brown and cook the chicken and noodles evenly |
| Medium saucepan | To boil the Yukon Gold potatoes for mashing |
| Large pot | To cook the wide egg noodles separately if preferred |
| Mixing bowl | To combine ingredients or hold cooked components |
| Potato masher or fork | For mashing the potatoes to creamy perfection |
| Wooden spoon or spatula | To stir and incorporate ingredients without scratching pans |
| Measuring cups and spoons | For accurate measurement of all ingredients |
| Colander or strainer | To drain cooked noodles and potatoes |
| Chef’s knife | For chopping onions, garlic, carrots, and celery |
| Cutting board | Safe space for vegetable and chicken prep |
| Whisk | To mix flour into broth for smooth thickening |
Pro Tip: Using a heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even heat distribution and prevents burning during the simmering of the chicken and noodle mixture.
Having these items ready before starting allows us to move confidently through each step, focusing on achieving the rich flavors and satisfying textures that this classic comfort dish promises.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, thorough prep work sets the stage for a seamless Chicken And Noodles Recipe With Mashed Potatoes. Let’s break down the steps to prepare each key component efficiently.
Preparing the Chicken
- Trim the boneless, skinless chicken thighs, removing any excess fat or connective tissue.
- Pat dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear when cooking.
- Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
- Measure out dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper to use for dredging the chicken, which will help thicken the sauce later.
“Dry chicken seared well develops a flavorful crust which is important for the rich sauce base.”
Preparing the Noodles
- Select wide egg noodles and check package instructions for cooking times.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the noodles until al dente, usually 7 to 9 minutes, then drain using a colander and set aside.
- Toss cooked noodles with a little olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Noodles type | Wide egg noodles |
| Cooking water | Large pot salted boiling water |
| Cooking time | 7 to 9 minutes (al dente) |
| Post-cook step | Drain, toss with olive oil |
Preparing the Potatoes
- Peel Yukon Gold potatoes and cut into uniform 1 ½-inch chunks for even cooking.
- Place potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring to a boil.
- Simmer potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain potatoes thoroughly in a colander and return to saucepan.
- Mash the potatoes using a potato masher.
- Add whole milk, unsalted butter, garlic powder (optional), salt, and freshly ground black pepper, then whisk until smooth and creamy.
“Uniform potato chunks cook evenly resulting in the perfect fluffy texture for mashed potatoes.”
This organized prep work ensures our Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes cooks efficiently and achieves rich flavors with satisfying textures in every bite.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create a Chicken And Noodles Recipe With Mashed Potatoes that highlights tender chicken, rich noodles, and creamy mashed potatoes. Each phase is crafted to maximize flavor and ensure a seamless cooking experience.
Cooking the Chicken and Noodles
- Heat the skillet: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat in a heavy-bottomed sauté pan.
- Prepare the chicken: Lightly dredge the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a mixture of ½ cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Shake off excess.
- Brown the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add 1 cup chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, ½ cup diced carrots, and ½ cup celery. Sauté until softened about 5 minutes.
- Make the sauce base: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons flour over the vegetables and stir to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth to avoid lumps.
- Add herbs and simmer: Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook noodles: Add 8 ounces wide egg noodles directly to the skillet. Cook uncovered until noodles are tender about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return chicken: Nestle the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet. Cover and cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors and reheat chicken.
“The tender chicken thighs combined with rich broth and al dente egg noodles create a comforting, hearty main dish.”
Making the Mashed Potatoes
- Prepare potatoes: Peel and cut 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes into 1- to 2-inch chunks. Rinse to remove excess starch.
- Cook potatoes: Place potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until tender about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and dry: Drain potatoes well. Return to pot and heat gently, shaking pot occasionally to dry out excess moisture.
- Mash potatoes: Using a potato masher, mash potatoes until smooth but still light and fluffy.
- Add dairy: Stir in ¾ cup whole milk, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, and optional ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Adjust texture: Add more milk as needed for creamy consistency. Keep warm until serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yukon Gold potatoes | 2 lbs | Peeled and cut |
| Whole milk | ¾ cup | Warmed |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp | Room temperature |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp (optional) | Adds subtle flavor |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Season well |
“Velvety mashed potatoes provide the perfect creamy contrast to the savory chicken and noodles.“
These detailed instructions guarantee our Chicken And Noodles Recipe With Mashed Potatoes delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Directions to Serve
- Plate the Mashed Potatoes
Spoon a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate. Use the back of your spoon to create a small well in the center. This will serve as the perfect base to hold the chicken and noodles, balancing the textures and flavors delightfully.
- Add the Chicken and Noodles
Carefully ladle the hot chicken and noodles onto the mashed potatoes. Ensure that the tender chicken pieces sit on top with plenty of the flavorful sauce soaking into the mashed potatoes. This layering allows the rich gravy to infuse every bite.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the dish for a burst of color and an herbaceous aroma. This simple garnish heightens the visual appeal and adds a fresh, uplifting note to the hearty dish.
- Serve Immediately
Serve the dish while hot to enjoy the full creaminess of the mashed potatoes and the tender juiciness of the chicken and noodles. The combination of textures — soft potatoes, succulent chicken, and al dente noodles — delivers a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Complement with Sides (Optional)
Add a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables on the side to balance the richness. A light vinaigrette salad works well to cut through the creamy textures and enhance the meal.
| Component | Serving Tip |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Create a well to hold gravy from chicken and noodles |
| Chicken and Noodles | Serve hot, let sauce soak into potatoes |
| Fresh Herbs | Sprinkle parsley or thyme before serving |
| Side Dishes (Optional) | Salad or steamed vegetables for freshness |
“The key to serving this classic Chicken and Noodles Recipe With Mashed Potatoes is layering and temperature — warm plates, warm food, and fresh herbs make all the difference.”
By following these steps, we ensure every serving bursts with rich flavor and satisfying textures, making it an unforgettable comfort food experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Chicken and Noodles Recipe with Mashed Potatoes without the stress of last-minute cooking, we can prepare several components in advance. This approach lets us savor the comfort of this classic dish even on busy days.
Prepare Chicken and Noodles Ahead
- Cook the chicken and noodles completely as described in the recipe. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- When ready to serve, slowly reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Make Mashed Potatoes in Advance
- Prepare the mashed potatoes fully, including butter and milk for that perfect creaminess.
- Allow to cool, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring periodically. Add a little warmed milk or butter to restore smoothness.
Quick Assembly Tips
- If pressed for time, keep mashed potatoes and chicken with noodles separately chilled.
- Reheat each component gently before plating.
- Spoon mashed potatoes first on the plate, create a small well, then spoon the chicken and noodles over the top or alongside.
- Garnish freshly with parsley or thyme to restore bright flavor and color.
Storage Timelines Table
| Component | Refrigeration Time | Freezer Time | Reheating Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken and Noodles | Up to 3 days | Up to 2 months | Reheat low heat, add broth if needed |
| Mashed Potatoes | Up to 2 days | Not recommended | Warm gently, stir, add milk or butter |
“Make-ahead preparation not only saves time but also allows the flavors of our chicken and noodles with mashed potatoes to meld deeply, enhancing every bite.”
Using these Make-Ahead Tips lets us enjoy this hearty meal hassle-free while preserving the rich taste and satisfying texture we love.
Conclusion
This chicken and noodles recipe paired with creamy mashed potatoes brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. It’s a dish that’s both approachable and rewarding, perfect for sharing with loved ones. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, we can create a meal that feels like a comforting hug in every bite.
Whether we’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe fits seamlessly into our routine. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful noodles, and smooth mashed potatoes makes for a timeless classic that never goes out of style. Let’s enjoy every moment of making and savoring this hearty, delicious meal together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for the chicken and noodles recipe?
You need boneless, skinless chicken thighs, olive oil or butter, onion, garlic, low-sodium chicken broth, wide egg noodles, carrots, celery, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and flour for thickening.
What ingredients are required for the mashed potatoes?
Use Yukon Gold potatoes, whole milk, unsalted butter, optional garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
What kitchen equipment is recommended for cooking this meal?
A large sauté pan or skillet, medium saucepan, large pot, mixing bowl, potato masher, wooden spoon, measuring tools, colander, chef’s knife, cutting board, and whisk.
How should I prepare the chicken before cooking?
Trim and dry the chicken, then dredge it in seasoned flour to get a flavorful crust when cooked.
How do I cook the noodles for this dish?
Cook wide egg noodles in salted boiling water until al dente, then toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
What is the best way to make creamy mashed potatoes?
Peel and cut Yukon Gold potatoes, boil until tender, then mash with whole milk, butter, and seasoning until creamy.
How do I serve chicken and noodles with mashed potatoes?
Spoon mashed potatoes onto the plate forming a well, add the chicken and noodles on top, and garnish with fresh herbs for aroma and color.
Can I prepare chicken and noodles ahead of time?
Yes, store cooked chicken and noodles in an airtight container in the fridge up to three days or freeze for two months.
How do I store and reheat mashed potatoes?
Store mashed potatoes in the fridge for up to two days and reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding milk or butter if needed.
What side dishes pair well with chicken and noodles with mashed potatoes?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables balance this rich and comforting meal nicely.