Skillet Dish with Chicken, Noodles, and Vegetables: A Flavorful Comfort Meal
When it comes to preparing a quick, hearty, and delicious meal, nothing beats a skillet dish that combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and wholesome vegetables. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also perfect for busy weeknights when you need a nutritious and satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a cooking enthusiast or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time.
Essential Ingredients for Skillet Chicken with Noodles and Vegetables
To craft this delectable skillet meal, you’ll need a few key ingredients that will infuse the dish with flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients required:
- 10 ounces of egg pasta – Choose egg pasta for its rich texture, which pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter – Butter serves as the base for sautéing the vegetables and will lend a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Onions add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced – Garlic is essential for enhancing the aroma and flavor profile of any savory dish.
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme to give the dish an aromatic, Italian flair.
- 1 ½ cups of frozen peas and carrots, thawed – The perfect combination of vegetables to add color, crunch, and nutrition.
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour – Used to thicken the sauce and help create a creamy texture.
- 1 cup of chicken stock – Chicken stock is the liquid foundation of the sauce, imparting rich flavor.
- 1 cup of heavy cream – This gives the dish its creamy, smooth consistency and luxurious mouthfeel.
- 1 ½ cups of cooked chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces – This protein component will give the dish its heartiness and make it a filling, balanced meal.
- Salt and pepper – Adjust to your taste preferences for seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Create Your Skillet Chicken and Noodles
1. Preparing the Noodles
Begin by cooking your egg pasta. Follow the instructions on the package to ensure that the noodles are cooked to al dente perfection. You want the noodles to retain their firmness to provide a satisfying texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce and tender chicken. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. The butter will serve as the base for sautéing your vegetables, ensuring a rich flavor. Add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the pan. Sauté the onion and garlic until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. This step will bring out the natural sweetness of the onion and create a fragrant base for your dish.
Next, incorporate 1 ½ cups of defrosted peas and carrots into the pan. These vegetables add a pop of color, as well as a mild sweetness and texture that contrasts perfectly with the other ingredients. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning to bring a touch of Mediterranean flavor, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Creating the Sauce
Once the vegetables are sautéed to perfection, it’s time to create the creamy sauce that will bring everything together. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the vegetables in the skillet, stirring constantly to ensure it blends evenly. This will act as a thickening agent, giving the sauce the right consistency.
Next, slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken stock, followed by 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir the mixture well to combine and bring the liquid to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the sauce will thicken and develop a smooth, velvety texture.
4. Adding the Chicken and Noodles
Now it’s time to incorporate the cooked chicken breast, which should be chopped into bite-sized pieces. The chicken adds a substantial protein element to the dish, making it a balanced meal that will keep you satisfied. Stir the chicken into the sauce, ensuring that it’s evenly coated.
Once the chicken is well-mixed into the sauce, add the cooked egg pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the noodles in the sauce, ensuring that every piece of pasta is coated with the creamy, flavorful sauce. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and pepper if necessary.
5. Serving the Dish
After everything is combined and heated through, your skillet chicken with noodles and vegetables is ready to serve! Dish out generous portions onto plates, and enjoy the vibrant colors and rich flavors. For added flavor, consider garnishing the dish with some freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This will enhance the visual appeal and give the meal an extra layer of deliciousness.
Why This Skillet Chicken Dish is a Must-Try
This skillet dish is a versatile meal that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, easy, and delicious. The combination of chicken, noodles, and vegetables provides a balance of protein, carbs, and nutrients that makes it an ideal dinner option for any day of the week.
- Nutrient-Rich: This meal contains a variety of vegetables that add essential vitamins and minerals. Peas and carrots offer fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C, while the chicken breast provides a lean source of protein.
- Quick and Convenient: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy sauce enveloping the pasta, chicken, and vegetables creates a comforting, hearty dish that will leave you feeling satisfied without being overly heavy.
Tips for Customizing Your Skillet Dish
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your personal taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Version: You can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding extra vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. You could also substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.
- Make it Spicy: If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the dish for a kick of spice.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, swap the egg pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative, and make sure to use a gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce.
Conclusion: A Skillet Dish for Every Occasion
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends for a casual meal, this skillet chicken dish with noodles and vegetables is sure to impress. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Quick, easy, and customizable, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make over and over again.