We’ve all craved that ultimate comfort food on a chilly evening and our Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes recipe delivers just that. It’s a hearty twist on classic American fare blending tender chicken savory noodles and creamy mashed potatoes into one satisfying dish.
In our kitchen we’ve perfected this family favorite drawing from simple traditions to create an easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in this recipe promises flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
To bring our comforting Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes recipe to life, we’ve curated a list of essential ingredients that blend simplicity with hearty flavors. We’ll organize them by how they’re used in the preparation process, starting with the components for the chicken and noodles, followed by those for the creamy mashed potatoes. This ensures everything is ready when you need it.
For the Chicken and Noodles
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces for quick searing and even cooking)
- 8 ounces egg noodles (dry, we prefer wide ones for their ability to hold the savory sauce)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium, to build a flavorful base without excess salt)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds, adding a subtle sweetness and crunch)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped into 1/2-inch pieces, for fresh aroma and texture)
- 1 medium onion (diced finely, as the foundation for building rich flavors)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced, to infuse a bold, aromatic depth right at the start)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the chicken and sautéing vegetables)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (for an earthy herb note that complements the chicken)
- Salt and pepper (to taste, enhancing every layer of the dish)
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces, ideal for creamy, fluffy results)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% for richness, warmed to prevent lumps)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed, to create a smooth, velvety texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for a subtle enhancement that ties into the main dish)
- Salt (to taste, for seasoning the potatoes perfectly)
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve gathered our essential ingredients, let’s equip our kitchen with the right tools to effortlessly prepare our comforting Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes. Having the proper equipment ensures smooth cooking, allowing us to focus on creating that perfect blend of tender chicken, savory noodles, and creamy potatoes.
We recommend organizing these tools by task for efficiency. Below, we’ve categorized them for clarity:
- Preparation Tools:
- Cutting board: A sturdy, large one to chop vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions safely.
- Chef’s knife: Sharp and reliable for precise cutting of chicken and veggies.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate measurements of broth, milk, and seasonings.
- Cooking Tools:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the chicken and noodles in broth to achieve that hearty flavor.
- Skillet or frying pan: Perfect for searing the chicken thighs to lock in juices before adding to the pot.
- Medium pot: Specifically for boiling potatoes to make our fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Mashing and Serving Tools:
- Potato masher or ricer: Key for creating smooth, creamy mashed potatoes without lumps.
- Colander: To drain boiled potatoes and noodles effectively.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring the noodles and mixing mashed potatoes, preventing sticking.
- Mixing bowl: A medium-sized one for combining mashed potato ingredients like butter and milk.
By using these tools, we ensure our recipe comes together seamlessly, enhancing the overall cooking experience. For instance, a good potato masher makes all the difference in achieving that velvety texture that complements the savory chicken and noodles. Always prioritize safety and quality in your kitchen setup to make this dish a staple in your routine.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to create our comforting Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes. We’ll break it down for a seamless process that delivers tender, flavorful results every time.
Prep
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for the stovetop. Begin by washing and chopping 2 medium carrots, 2 celery stalks, and 1 large onion into even 1/2-inch pieces for uniform cooking. Next, mince 3 garlic cloves and set them aside in a small bowl. For the chicken, pat dry 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with paper towels and season them generously with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme to enhance the savory flavors. Peel and cube 2 pounds of russet potatoes into 1-inch pieces, then rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch for fluffier mashed potatoes. This preparation sets the stage for a smooth workflow, allowing us to focus on building rich aromas and textures.
Cook Chicken and Noodles
With our ingredients prepped, we’ll cook the chicken and noodles to achieve juicy, flavorful bites. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F, releasing a mouthwatering aroma of herbs and garlic. Remove the chicken and set it aside to rest. In the same pot, add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant with a sweet, earthy scent. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a boil, then stir in 8 ounces of egg noodles and the shredded chicken. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the noodles are al dente and absorb the savory broth, creating a hearty, comforting mixture that’s tender and full of flavor.
Make Mashed Potatoes
While the chicken and noodles simmer, we’ll whip up creamy mashed potatoes that provide a velvety contrast to the dish. In a separate large pot, add the cubed russet potatoes and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and release a steamy, comforting aroma. Drain the potatoes in a colander, then return them to the pot. Add 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup milk, 1 teaspoon salt, and optional 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, then mash thoroughly with a potato masher or ricer until smooth and luxuriously creamy, with a rich, buttery taste that melts in your mouth. This step ensures our mashed potatoes are the perfect fluffy base for the meal.
Assemble and Serve
To finish, we’ll assemble the dish for a satisfying presentation that highlights its hearty appeal. In a large serving bowl or individual plates, layer the cooked chicken and noodles as the base, spooning on a generous portion of the warm mashed potatoes. Gently mix or top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired, allowing the creamy potatoes to blend with the savory juices from the chicken and noodles for a cohesive, comforting bite. Serve immediately while hot, savoring the tender chicken, chewy noodles, and silky potatoes that create a symphony of textures and flavors, making this a go-to recipe for family dinners.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes recipe even more convenient for busy days, we recommend preparing components in advance. This approach allows the flavors to develop fully while saving time during meal prep. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your dish remains deliciously comforting and ready to serve.
Preparing the Chicken and Noodles
We suggest making the chicken and noodles mixture up to 2 days ahead. Start by following the cooking steps from our main instructions—sear the chicken, simmer it with vegetables, broth, and seasonings, then add the egg noodles until tender. Once cooked, let the mixture cool completely to room temperature.
- Cool and Store: Transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container. For the best results, divide it into portions to minimize reheating time.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This step helps the savory flavors of the chicken, carrots, celery, and thyme meld together, enhancing the hearty taste.
Preparing the Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes can be made ahead as they reheat beautifully with minimal loss of creaminess. Prepare them by boiling the russet potatoes, mashing with milk, unsalted butter, and optional garlic powder, then seasoning with salt as outlined in our recipe.
- Cool and Store: Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature to prevent condensation, which could make them watery.
- Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain their fluffy, creamy texture, stir in a splash of milk before storing.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage is key to preserving the dish’s comforting appeal. We’ve outlined the guidelines in the table below for quick reference:
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken and Noodles | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 2 days | Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth; stir until hot (about 5-7 minutes) to restore tenderness and flavor. |
| Mashed Potatoes | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a tablespoon of butter or milk as needed; stir gently for 3-5 minutes until smooth and steaming. |
When you’re ready to assemble, reheat each component separately to avoid overcooking. Combine them just before serving for that perfect blend of tender chicken, savory noodles, and creamy potatoes. Always check for safe temperatures—internal heat should reach 165°F (74°C) for the chicken—to ensure a mouthwatering, worry-free meal.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our take on this classic recipe. It’s a simple way to bring warmth and heartiness to any gathering, blending flavors that feel like home.
Give it a try and make it your own—we’re sure it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, offering comfort and joy with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes?
Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. It features tender chicken simmered with savory noodles, veggies, and broth, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This easy recipe draws from simple traditions, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights, with flavors that deliver warmth and satisfaction.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
For Chicken and Noodles, you’ll need boneless chicken thighs, egg noodles, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, olive oil, thyme, and seasonings. For Mashed Potatoes, gather russet potatoes, milk, butter, garlic powder (optional), and salt. This list is organized for easy prep, ensuring a smooth cooking process with fresh, simple ingredients.
What tools are required to prepare this dish?
You’ll need basic kitchen tools like a cutting board, sharp knife, measuring cups and spoons, a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking, a skillet, potato masher or ricer, and a colander. These items help with prep, cooking, and serving, focusing on safety and efficiency to make the recipe straightforward and enjoyable.
How do I make Chicken and Noodles with Mashed Potatoes?
Start by prepping and seasoning the chicken and veggies. Sear the chicken in a pot, add broth and noodles, then simmer until tender. Boil and mash potatoes with butter and milk separately. Layer the chicken mixture with mashed potatoes for serving. The process is simple, taking about 45-60 minutes for a delicious, homemade meal.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and noodles up to 2 days in advance to let flavors meld, and mash the potatoes up to 3 days ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This makes it convenient for busy schedules, allowing you to reheat components separately for fresh-tasting results.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and noodles in a pot on the stove with a splash of broth, and warm mashed potatoes in the microwave or oven with a bit of milk. Always heat to 165°F for safety, preserving the dish’s comforting texture and flavor.