Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet
Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is a delightful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, rich cream, and savory garlic flavors, all tossed together with perfectly cooked noodles for a satisfying meal.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy garlic sauce pairs beautifully with the chicken and noodles, making it a family favorite!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that envelops every bite
- Savory garlic flavor that enhances the chicken
- Quick and easy to prepare in one skillet
A One-Pan Wonder
One of the best features of this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is its convenience. By preparing everything in a single skillet, you minimize cleanup and maximize flavor. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. The integration of ingredients in one pan allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that every bite is deliciously satisfying.
Moreover, using one skillet means you can easily monitor the cooking process, ensuring perfect texture and taste. The simplicity of this recipe doesn't compromise on quality; it delivers restaurant-level flavors right in your kitchen. With just a few steps, you can whip up a delightful meal that the whole family will adore.
Versatile Ingredients
The ingredients in this recipe are not only straightforward but also versatile. While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can easily substitute with chicken thighs or even shrimp for a seafood variation. This adaptability makes it a great choice for those who like to experiment with their meals or cater to dietary preferences.
Additionally, the creamy garlic sauce can be enriched with other flavors. Consider adding in some sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for an extra layer of complexity. You can even swap out the egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free options, making this dish accessible to a wider audience without sacrificing taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is an ideal candidate for meal prep. You can easily make a larger batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. The creamy sauce keeps the noodles from drying out, ensuring that your meals remain delicious even days later. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and satisfying meal.
When preparing for meal prep, consider cooking the chicken and noodles separately, then combining them with the sauce just before serving. This way, you maintain the optimal texture and freshness of each component. It's a smart strategy that ensures your meals are not only convenient but also appetizing.
Ingredients
For the Skillet
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Noodles
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked noodles and chicken back to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, you can incorporate vegetables like spinach or broccoli into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
Tips for the Best Results
To achieve the best results, make sure your chicken is diced evenly. This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from being over or undercooked. Additionally, searing the chicken until golden brown enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. Don't rush this step; it's key to developing that rich, savory taste that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
When cooking the garlic, be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to your sauce. Sauté it just until fragrant before adding the broth. Lastly, remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the dish and bring all the flavors together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy garlic chicken and noodles dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the meal, offering a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for those looking to indulge further.
For a fun twist, consider topping the finished dish with grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish, making it perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or penne.
→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative to reduce calories.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with noodles when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This skillet dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is a delightful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, rich cream, and savory garlic flavors, all tossed together with perfectly cooked noodles for a satisfying meal.
What You'll Need
For the Skillet
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the cooked noodles and chicken back to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, you can incorporate vegetables like spinach or broccoli into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g