Chicken and Noodles is a classic comfort food dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly winter evening, this recipe is a timeless favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 30 minutes, it’s also a convenient option for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
This dish, reminiscent of home-cooked meals lovingly prepared by mothers everywhere, is sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and contentment. The combination of tender chicken, savory gravy, and al dente noodles creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving it to picky eaters or discerning foodies, Chicken and Noodles is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
To start, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring that it’s perfectly heated for baking this delectable dish to golden perfection. Meanwhile, in a large pan, melt butter over medium heat until it’s gently sizzling and fragrant. Then, add flour to the melted butter, stirring continuously to form a smooth roux. This step is crucial for achieving a thick and creamy sauce that will coat every ingredient in luscious goodness.
Once the flour is fully incorporated, it’s time to add the aromatic seasonings that will infuse the sauce with depth and flavor. Sprinkle in dried rubbed sage and dried marjoram, allowing their herbal notes to mingle with the buttery roux. Next, gradually pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This gradual addition of liquid ensures a silky-smooth sauce that’s velvety and rich.
As the sauce simmers and thickens, season it with salt and pepper to taste, adding just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the dish. For a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, fold in diced pimentos, their vibrant red hue brightening up the creamy sauce. Once the sauce has reached the perfect consistency, remove it from the heat and set it aside while you prepare the remaining components of the dish.
In a 2-quart baking dish, combine cooked vegetables, diced cooked chicken, and cooked noodles, creating a hearty base for the dish. Then, pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and noodles, ensuring that every ingredient is generously coated in the luscious gravy. Gently stir the mixture to distribute the sauce evenly, allowing it to permeate every bite with its comforting flavors.
To add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of indulgence, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the dish, creating a golden crust that’s as satisfying to look at as it is to eat. For an extra decadent touch, dot the top of the casserole with small pieces of butter, which will melt into the dish as it bakes, adding richness and flavor to every bite.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the Chicken and Noodles for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling with irresistible goodness. The tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is sure to whet your appetite and beckon everyone to the table. Once it’s ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles, Chicken and Noodles is a true culinary masterpiece that embodies the essence of comfort food. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal to warm you up on a cold day or simply want to indulge in a satisfying dish that soothes the soul, this recipe is a must-try. Serve it alongside your favorite side dishes or enjoy it on its own for a meal that’s guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
