Craving a warm, comforting meal that tastes like home? Look no further than this delicious Bob Evans Chicken and Noodles recipe! This hearty dish is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend supper. Forget takeout – homemade comfort food is just a few simple steps away. This recipe delivers all the creamy, savory goodness of a restaurant favorite, right in your own kitchen. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying healthy meal the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly browned. This creates a roux, which will thicken the soup.
-
Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
-
Simmer the Chicken and Noodles: Return the chicken to the pot. Add the egg noodles and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through and the chicken is tender.
-
Create a Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and a few tablespoons of the hot soup. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the pot, stirring constantly. This helps to create a smooth, creamy texture without lumps. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade Bob Evans-inspired Chicken and Noodles!
Tips for the Best Chicken and Noodles:
- Use high-quality chicken broth: The flavor of your broth will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Give the chicken and vegetables enough space to brown properly. You may need to cook them in batches if necessary.
- Cook the noodles al dente: Slightly undercooked noodles will continue to cook in the sauce, preventing them from becoming mushy.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or thyme depending on your preference.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or potatoes.
- Use different noodles: Try wide egg noodles, or even substitute with other pasta shapes like shells or rotini.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamier version: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream at the end for extra richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This recipe is a great source of protein and provides a good balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and delicious healthy meal option. Enjoy your quick dinner idea, perfect for any occasion! This easy recipe offers a simple, delicious way to enjoy classic comfort food. It’s a fantastic option for homemade cooking that delivers big on flavor. This is definitely one of the best recipes for a weeknight meal!