Are you craving a warm, comforting, and undeniably delicious meal? Look no further than this recipe for Chicken and Kluski Noodles! This classic Polish dish is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a delightful blend of tender chicken, fluffy noodles, and a savory broth. It's the perfect quick dinner idea for a busy weeknight, or a satisfying weekend meal the whole family will love. This homemade cooking recipe will become a staple in your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- For the Broth:
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- For the Kluski Noodles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup water (more if needed)
- For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Sour cream
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Broth
In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in chicken broth and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Kluski Noodles
On a lightly floured surface, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg and water. Gradually incorporate the flour into the egg mixture, kneading until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water; if it’s too sticky, add a little more flour. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Roll the dough out thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) and cut into small, roughly 1-inch wide strips. You can also use a knife or a pasta cutter for this.
Step 4: Cook Everything Together
Add the cooked chicken back to the broth. Bring the broth back to a simmer, then add the kluski noodles. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the chicken and kluski noodles into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken and Kluski Noodles:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: When cooking the chicken, ensure there's enough space for it to brown properly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices to your liking.
- Make the noodles ahead: You can prepare the kluski noodle dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
- Use a variety of vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the broth, such as mushrooms, potatoes, or green beans.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken and Kluski: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier version.
- Spicy Chicken and Kluski: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Kluski: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add some hearty vegetables like mushrooms and spinach for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and ingredients used, but a general estimate is around 350-400 calories, with moderate amounts of protein and carbohydrates. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This Chicken and Kluski Noodles recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the ease of preparation! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it one of the best recipes for easy, healthy meals. Enjoy!