chicken and elbow noodle recipe
The Best chicken and elbow noodle recipe
Chicken and elbow noodles have been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I’ll never get tired of it. There’s something about the simple, comforting flavors of tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and the perfect bite of elbow macaroni that makes it feel like a hug in a bowl. I grew up eating this dish often, and it’s one of those recipes that feels both cozy and satisfying, whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a meal that makes the whole family feel special. My kids—especially my picky eaters—always find a way to sneak a bite, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s hearty enough to fill you up without being overwhelming, and the way the noodles soak up the sauce makes every bite taste like home.
What really makes this dish special is how adaptable it is. You can throw together a quick weeknight meal with minimal effort, or you can take it to the next level with extra herbs, a splash of cream, or even a little bit of cheese on top. It’s something you can make ahead and reheat, so it’s great for meal prep too—no one has to wonder what’s for dinner if you’ve got a pot of this simmering on the stove. Plus, it’s not just about taste; it’s also a decent source of protein and fiber, thanks to the noodles and chicken. The tomato sauce adds some natural vitamins and antioxidants, and if you use whole wheat pasta, you get even more nutrients. It’s a meal that’s easy on the wallet, easy on the time, and easy on the soul—something I appreciate more than most recipes. My family eats it often, and I never get tired of making it.
Garlic Butter Chicken and Elbow Noodles
A comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a rich garlic butter sauce paired with creamy elbow macaroni. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
2 For the dough: In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking powder. Add milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until a soft dough forms. Let rest for 10 minutes.
-
3 For the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
-
4 For the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in tomato sauce, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in lemon juice.
-
5 For the noodles: Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
6 Assemble: Toss cooked noodles with olive oil and red pepper flakes (if using). Slice chicken into strips. Divide noodles among plates, top with chicken, and pour sauce over. Serve immediately.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Large skillet
- Saucepan
- Oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Parchment paper
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Chicken and Elbow Noodles Works
This chicken and elbow noodle recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to scale up for a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a holiday spread, the tender chicken and cheesy noodles keep everyone satisfied without fussing over complicated sides. It’s comforting, filling, and just the kind of dish that makes people feel warm and happy when they sit down to eat. Plus, it’s foolproof—no stressing over timing or last-minute prep, just good food that brings people together.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken and Elbow Noodles
1. What is the difference between chicken and elbow noodles, and why would someone choose one over the other?
Chicken and elbow noodles are both popular comfort foods, but they differ primarily in the type of noodles used. Elbow macaroni (also called rigatoni or penne) is a short, twisted pasta shape, while chicken noodle soup traditionally uses long, thin noodles like egg noodles, spaghetti, or rice noodles. Elbow noodles are often used in dishes like baked macaroni and cheese, while chicken noodle soup relies on long noodles to soak up broth. If you prefer a heartier, cheesy dish with a thicker texture, elbow noodles might be a better choice. For a lighter, broth-based soup, long noodles are typically preferred.
—
2. How can I make the chicken and elbow noodles recipe more flavorful without relying solely on salt and pepper?
To elevate the flavor of your chicken and elbow noodles, consider these key ingredients and techniques: – Aromatics: Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in oil before adding broth to build a rich base. – Spices: Add a pinch of black pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of smoked paprika for depth. – Umami boost: Include a splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or a small piece of fish sauce for savory notes. – Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or bay leaves can add freshness. – Acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice or vinegar at the end brightens the dish. – Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar for extra richness. – Broth: Use homemade or high-quality chicken broth instead of bouillon for better taste.
—
3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of fresh chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken (such as rotisserie chicken, canned chicken, or leftover cooked chicken) to save time. Just ensure the chicken is shredded or diced finely so it blends well into the noodles. If using canned chicken, drain excess liquid to avoid a watery soup. For best results, simmer the chicken briefly in the broth to rehydrate it slightly and infuse more flavor.
—
4. What are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking chicken and elbow noodles?
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure a delicious dish: – Overcooking the chicken: Cut it into small pieces and cook it quickly to retain moisture. Overcooking makes it dry. – Boiling noodles too long: Elbow macaroni should be cooked al dente (firm to the bite). Overcooking turns them mushy. – Skipping the broth: Using too much water dilutes the flavor. Use a 1:1 ratio of broth to noodles (or adjust based on your preference). – Ignoring the seasoning: Salt and pepper alone won’t cut it. Balance flavors with herbs, spices, and acidity. – Letting the soup cool too much: Stirring it gently after cooking helps distribute heat evenly and prevents lumps. – Not tasting as you go: Adjust seasoning gradually—flavor improves with time.
—
5. How can I make this recipe healthier, while keeping it comforting and delicious?
You can modify the recipe to be lighter without sacrificing taste: – Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein. – Opt for lean chicken breast or thighs (skinless) and trim visible fat. – Reduce oil by sautéing aromatics in broth instead of oil or use a light spray. – Add veggies: Stir in diced carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrients. – Use low-sodium broth and season with herbs, garlic, and lemon instead of excessive salt. – Top with Greek yogurt or avocado for creaminess without heavy cream. – Serve with a side salad or steamed veggies to balance the meal.
—
