The wind is howling outside, and you need a warm hug in a bowl. This Classic Chicken and Noodles is exactly what your family craves on a chilly evening.

It is thick, savory, and incredibly satisfying for even the pickiest eaters. You can have a hearty, homemade meal on the table with very little effort.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

This dish is the ultimate comfort food for busy winter nights. It uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The thick egg noodles soak up the rich broth beautifully.

It feels like a labor of love without the long hours in the kitchen. Your family will ask for seconds before the first bowl is even finished. It is budget-friendly and feeds a hungry crowd easily.

Simple Method

Making this dish is straightforward and stress-free for any home cook. You will simmer everything in one pot to build deep flavor. No complicated techniques are required to get that perfect stew-like consistency.

Simply sauté your vegetables and let the chicken cook in the broth. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this recipe. It is as easy as sautéing, simmering, and stirring.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These staples create a base that tastes like it simmered all day long.

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 lb frozen thick-cut egg noodles
6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
2 cups water
1 cup yellow onion, diced
1 cup carrots, sliced into rounds
1 cup celery, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp poultry seasoning
2 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Directions

Melt butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 6 to 8 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and poultry seasoning; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add chicken stock and water, then place the chicken thighs into the liquid.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Remove chicken from the pot and shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
Increase the heat to bring the liquid back to a rolling boil.
Add the frozen egg noodles and cook according to package directions, typically 15 to 20 minutes, until tender.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this dish in deep bowls while it is steaming hot. A side of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce. You can also pair it with a crisp green salad for balance.

Gather your loved ones around the table for a cozy, quiet dinner. Set the table, light a candle, and enjoy the warmth. It is the perfect way to end a long winter day.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for three days. The noodles will absorb more liquid as they sit.

Add a splash of broth when reheating on the stove or in the microwave. This makes a fantastic grab-and-go lunch for work. You can also freeze it for up to two months for future meals.

Tips for Best Results

Use chicken thighs for the most tender and juicy results.
Don’t skip the poultry seasoning as it adds classic savory depth.
Make sure the liquid is at a rolling boil before adding frozen noodles.
Stir the noodles occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom.
For a thicker stew, let the dish rest for ten minutes before serving.
Add a handful of fresh summer peas if you want extra greens.
Always use low-sodium stock so you can control the salt level.
Double the batch for a stress-free holiday crowd-pleaser.

Ways to Switch It Up

Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta if needed.
Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for extra richness.
Use a rotisserie chicken to save even more time on weeknights.
Stir in some baby spinach at the end for a nutritional boost.
Swap the parsley for fresh dill for a bright, herby twist.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, you can use breasts, but watch the time carefully. Thighs are much more forgiving and stay tender during the simmering process.

What if the broth gets too thick?

The noodles naturally release starch which thickens the sauce. Simply stir in extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

You can cook the chicken and veggies on low for 6 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

I hope this cozy meal brings warmth to your home this season. It is a simple way to show your family some extra love. Happy cooking!

— Lidia