Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet
Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is a comforting and delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich creamy sauce over perfectly cooked noodles.
This dish brings together the delightful flavors of garlic and cream in a quick and easy way, perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and rich sauce that coats every noodle
- Tender chicken cooked to perfection
- Quick one-pan meal for easy cleanup
- Perfectly balanced flavors that please everyone
A Comforting One-Pan Meal
When you're looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner, this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is the answer. Not only does it come together in just one pan, but it also brings a delightful blend of flavors and textures that the whole family will enjoy. The creamy sauce envelops the chicken and noodles, offering a comforting experience that's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. This addition not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors to the dish, making it even more appealing to the eye.
Cooking Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees that your chicken is safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender. Additionally, when sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it. Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter and ruining the flavor of your dish.
For a creamier sauce, feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to suit your taste. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary preferences.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you may notice that the sauce thickens slightly. To bring back its creamy consistency, add a splash of chicken broth or cream while warming it on the stove. Stir gently over low heat until heated through, making sure not to overcook the chicken.
This dish also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned for optimal results.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet:
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet:
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
Cook the Noodles
Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken and drained noodles to the sauce, stirring gently to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with the calcium-rich Parmesan cheese, this dish supports bone health and helps keep you feeling full.
The inclusion of garlic offers additional health benefits. Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic can help fight off illnesses while adding a punch of flavor to your meal. Furthermore, if you choose to add vegetables, you'll enhance the dish's fiber content, promoting digestive health and overall well-being.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your meal, consider pairing this creamy chicken and noodles dish with a refreshing side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the skillet, providing a nice balance to your meal. You might also add some crusty bread for dipping into that delicious sauce!
For beverage options, a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and garlic flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon can refresh the palate and enhance your dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with any pasta of your choice.
→ Is there a low-fat alternative for the heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative, but the sauce may be less creamy.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This skillet meal is complete on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread.
Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet
This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Noodles Skillet is a comforting and delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich creamy sauce over perfectly cooked noodles.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Add the cooked chicken and drained noodles to the sauce, stirring gently to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g