Easy One-Pot Chicken and Noodles: A Comforting Meal for the Whole Family
There are days when you want to make everything from scratch, and then there are days when you just need a quick and delicious meal that comes together with minimal effort. This easy one-pot chicken and noodles recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, feeding a family without the hassle of extensive prep work. It’s packed with flavor, hearty enough to satisfy, and uses simple ingredients that come together to create a comforting dish that tastes homemade.
Why This Chicken and Noodles Recipe is a Must-Try
There are many reasons to love this recipe. First, it’s budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients like frozen chicken, store-bought broth, and pre-made noodles. Second, it’s incredibly easy—no complicated steps, no need for fancy cooking skills, just a simple one-pot meal that delivers comfort with every bite. Lastly, it’s kid-friendly, making it a great option for families with picky eaters.
This dish is also highly customizable. You can swap ingredients based on what you have, making it versatile and practical. Whether you need a quick dinner after a long day or want to prepare something warm and satisfying, this recipe is the perfect choice.
Health Benefits of This One-Pot Chicken and Noodles Recipe
Despite being an easy, store-bought ingredient meal, this recipe has several nutritional benefits. The chicken breast provides lean protein, essential for muscle growth and energy. The chicken broth is packed with minerals and hydration benefits. The frozen mixed vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this a well-balanced meal. While cream of chicken soup and butter add richness, using the 50% less sodium broth helps keep the salt levels in check.
If you’re looking for a way to make this recipe healthier, you can use low-fat cream of chicken soup, whole wheat noodles, or add extra fresh vegetables for a more wholesome meal.
Ingredients Needed for This Recipe
To make this hearty one-pot chicken and noodles meal, you will need:
- 2 frozen chicken breasts (large-sized)
- 1 (32oz) container of 50% less sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet of chicken gravy mix
- 1 family-size can of cream of chicken soup
- ½ stick of butter
- 1 (24oz) pack of Reames frozen noodles
- 1 (10oz) bag of frozen mixed vegetables
- ½ teaspoon of pepper
- ½ teaspoon of onion powder
Optional Add-Ins
If you want to customize this dish, consider adding:
- Fresh garlic – for extra depth of flavor
- Celery and carrots – to enhance the veggie content
- Shredded cheese – for a creamy, cheesy twist
- Herbs like thyme or parsley – to add a fresh taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making This Easy Chicken and Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Place the frozen chicken breasts in a large pot or slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the onion powder and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If using a slow cooker, cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, allowing it to soak up the flavorful broth.
Step 3: Add the Soup and Gravy Mix
Stir in the cream of chicken soup and the chicken gravy mix until fully combined. This will create a rich and creamy broth that coats the chicken beautifully. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Add the Noodles and Butter
Add the Reames frozen noodles directly into the pot. Stir well to ensure the noodles are fully submerged in the broth. Drop in ½ stick of butter, allowing it to melt and create a luscious, buttery finish. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender.
Step 5: Add the Frozen Vegetables
Pour in the bag of frozen mixed vegetables and stir everything together. Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked through, ladle the creamy chicken and noodles into bowls and serve hot. Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or even some freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
How to Customize This Recipe for Different Diets
For a Healthier Version
- Use low-fat cream of chicken soup to reduce calories.
- Add more vegetables for fiber and nutrients.
- Swap butter for olive oil for a lighter fat source.
For a Gluten-Free Version
- Use gluten-free egg noodles instead of Reames frozen noodles.
- Ensure the chicken gravy mix and cream of chicken soup are gluten-free.
For a Low-Carb Version
- Replace the noodles with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Use heavy cream instead of cream of chicken soup for a low-carb alternative.
Final Thoughts
This easy one-pot chicken and noodles recipe is the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a family. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or need a meal that everyone will love, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s rich, creamy, packed with protein and veggies, and incredibly easy to make. Try it today and enjoy a meal that tastes homemade without all the effort!