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Creamed chicken over noodles is a classic comfort food dish that combines tender chicken in a rich and creamy sauce, served over a bed of fluffy noodles. With its hearty and satisfying flavors, this dish has been a staple on family dinner tables for generations. In this article, we will delve into the delightful combination of succulent chicken and velvety sauce, creating a comforting and indulgent meal that will warm both the body and the soul.
The Creamy Chicken Sauce:
At the heart of this dish is the creamy chicken sauce that envelops the tender chicken and coats the noodles. The sauce is made by combining a velvety mixture of butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream. The butter and flour create a roux, serving as the base for the sauce, while the chicken broth and cream add depth, richness, and a luxurious texture. The sauce is then seasoned with herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile.
Tender Chicken:
To make creamed chicken over noodles, tender pieces of cooked chicken are added to the creamy sauce. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded, or diced into bite-sized pieces. The chicken becomes infused with the flavors of the creamy sauce, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Fluffy Noodles:
The creamy chicken sauce is traditionally served over a bed of fluffy noodles. Egg noodles are a popular choice for this dish due to their soft and delicate texture, which pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente, or to your preferred level of doneness, before layering them with the creamed chicken.
Tips and Variations:
Tips:
1. Sauté the chicken: Before adding the chicken to the creamy sauce, consider sautéing it in a separate pan with a little oil or butter. This step adds a golden brown color and enhances the flavor of the chicken.
2. Season generously: Don't be afraid to season your creamy sauce well. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings to ensure a well-balanced and flavorful dish.
3. Use homemade chicken broth: If possible, make your own chicken broth for the sauce. Homemade broth adds an extra depth of flavor and richness to the dish.
4. Don't overcook the noodles: Cook the noodles until they are just al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and less enjoyable.
5. Add a splash of acidity: Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of white wine to the creamy sauce to brighten the flavors and cut through the richness.
Variations:
1. Creamed Chicken and Mushroom Noodles: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and add them to the creamy sauce along with the chicken. The earthy flavors of mushrooms complement the creaminess of the sauce beautifully.
2. Creamed Chicken and Spinach Noodles: Add a handful of fresh spinach leaves to the creamy sauce for a vibrant burst of color and added nutrition. The spinach will wilt and blend perfectly with the dish.
3. Creamed Chicken and Broccoli Noodles: Blanch or steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp and add them to the creamy sauce along with the chicken. The combination of creamy sauce, chicken, and broccoli creates a wholesome and well-rounded meal.
4. Creamed Chicken with Herbed Noodles: Toss the cooked noodles with melted butter and a sprinkle of dried or fresh herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or basil. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the noodles, complementing the creamed chicken.
5. Creamed Chicken and Bacon Noodles: Crisp up some bacon and crumble it over the creamy chicken and noodles for added savory goodness and a delightful crunch.
Ingredients:
- - 8 oz egg noodles
- - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- - 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- - 2 cups chicken broth
- - 1 cup heavy cream
- - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- - 1 teaspoon onion powder
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and lightly golden.
3. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir until well-coated. Allow the chicken to heat through for a couple of minutes.
6. Add the cooked egg noodles to the pan and toss them gently with the creamy chicken sauce until they are well combined.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream to achieve the desired consistency.
8. Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove from heat.
9. Serve the creamed chicken over a bed of noodles and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
10. Enjoy your delicious homemade creamed chicken over noodles!
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