Homestyle Chicken and Noodles Skillet

When comfort food calls, nothing quite answers like a warm, hearty Homestyle Chicken and Noodles Skillet. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, velvety egg noodles, and a medley of vegetables all simmered in flavorful chicken broth. It’s a cozy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a dish that tastes like home. What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly everything comes together in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a staple to add to your dinner rotation.

Why This Homestyle Chicken and Noodles Skillet Stands Out

This skillet recipe stands out because it balances simplicity and heartiness in one pot. The chicken breasts are cut into bite-sized pieces, allowing them to cook quickly and absorb the herbs and broth beautifully. Using egg noodles instead of traditional pasta adds a nostalgic, homestyle touch that evokes memories of family dinners. The addition of frozen peas and carrots not only adds vibrant color but also a subtle sweetness that complements the savory broth. The optional splash of heavy cream rounds out the dish with a luscious finish, but even without it, the skillet is comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily swap ingredients and customize it to your liking. If you love one-pot meals like the Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden Copycat, this skillet will quickly become a favorite.

Shopping List

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups egg noodles
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking everything together
• Cutting board and sharp knife – to prep chicken and vegetables
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in broth, spices, and cream
• Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the skillet contents
• Colander – to drain noodles if needed

Make Homestyle Chicken and Noodles Skillet: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and parsley. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Add Broth and Noodles

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and frozen peas and carrots mix. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let the noodles cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking to the bottom.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to marry the flavors. If you’re using heavy cream, stir it in now to enrich the sauce and give the dish a creamy texture. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is heated through and the noodles are perfectly tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Homestyle Chicken and Noodles Skillet straight from the pan for a rustic presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.

Dietary Customizations

• For a dairy-free version, omit the heavy cream or replace it with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Use gluten-free egg noodles or pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
• Add mushrooms or swap peas and carrots for other vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or spinach for variety.
• Substitute chicken with turkey breast pieces for a leaner protein option.

Missteps & Fixes

• No broth on hand? Use a well-seasoned vegetable broth or a quick homemade broth with bouillon cubes.
• Noodles too mushy? Watch the cooking time carefully and test noodles early. If they overcook, try reducing the broth next time or cooking noodles separately.
• Chicken dry or tough? Make sure chicken pieces are cut evenly and avoid overcooking. Browning them quickly on medium-high heat helps seal in juices.
• Flavor flat? Boost with an extra pinch of herbs, a splash of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper before serving.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Homestyle Chicken and Noodles Skillet stores beautifully. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, transfer the cooled skillet contents into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.

When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving for best texture; stovetop warming preserves the noodles and chicken.

Quick Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and stay moist during cooking. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

What if I don’t have egg noodles?

You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just keep an eye on cooking times as different pastas vary.

Is it okay to omit the heavy cream?

Yes! The cream adds extra richness but the dish is delicious without it. For a dairy-free option, consider coconut cream or simply skip it.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and chop veggies ahead. It’s best to cook the noodles fresh or just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Similar Recipes

• Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili – another comforting chicken dish with creamy flavors.
• Freezer Friendly Chicken Zucchini Alfredo – a creamy pasta dish that’s convenient and delicious.
• Instant Pot Chicken Gnocchi Soup Olive Garden Copycat – a soup version with tender chicken and gnocchi for a twist on this comfort classic.

Wrap-Up

The Homestyle Chicken and Noodles Skillet is a timeless recipe that brings together tender chicken, hearty noodles, and vibrant vegetables in a savory broth. It’s easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and satisfies cravings for a warm, filling meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this skillet offers flexibility and flavor with every bite. By keeping ingredients simple and cooking everything in one pan, you save time without sacrificing taste. This recipe is a must-have in your collection of comforting dinners and pairs well with a variety of sides and salads. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

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