
Grandma’s Comfort: Old Fashioned Chicken and Noodles Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of homemade chicken and noodles. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, cozy evenings, and the unconditional love of a grandmother’s cooking. This recipe aims to capture that essence, bringing you a truly old-fashioned chicken and noodles experience. We’ll be ditching shortcuts and embracing the traditional methods that make this dish so special. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and create a culinary masterpiece that will warm your heart and soul.
## The Allure of Old-Fashioned Chicken and Noodles
What sets old-fashioned chicken and noodles apart from the quicker, modern versions? It’s all about the depth of flavor and the texture of the noodles. By using a whole chicken, you create a rich, flavorful broth that forms the foundation of the dish. The homemade noodles, while requiring a bit more effort, offer a delightful chewiness that you simply can’t replicate with store-bought pasta. This recipe is a labor of love, but the reward is a truly exceptional meal.
## Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients, emphasizing quality over quantity.
* **Whole Chicken (3-4 lbs):** The star of the show! A whole chicken provides the most flavorful broth.
* **Water (12-16 cups):** For creating the chicken broth.
* **Celery (3 stalks), chopped:** Adds aromatic depth to the broth.
* **Carrots (3 medium), chopped:** Contributes sweetness and color to the broth.
* **Onion (1 large), chopped:** Another essential aromatic for the broth.
* **Garlic (3 cloves), minced:** For a touch of pungent flavor.
* **Bay Leaves (2):** Infuses the broth with a subtle herbal aroma.
* **Dried Thyme (1 tsp):** Adds a classic savory note.
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste, for seasoning the broth and chicken.
* **All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):** For making the homemade noodles.
* **Eggs (2 large):** Binds the noodle dough together.
* **Milk (1/4 cup):** Adds moisture to the noodle dough.
* **Salt (1/2 tsp):** For seasoning the noodle dough.
* **Butter (2 tbsp):** Adds richness to the noodles (optional).
* **Fresh Parsley (chopped), for garnish (optional):** Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
## Step-by-Step Instructions: A Culinary Journey
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s embark on the journey of creating this comforting dish. We’ll break down the process into manageable steps, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
### Part 1: Creating the Rich Chicken Broth
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and remove any giblets or excess fat. Place the chicken in a large stockpot or Dutch oven.
2. **Add Aromatics:** Add the chopped celery, carrots, onion, and minced garlic to the pot with the chicken. These aromatics will infuse the broth with their flavorful essence.
3. **Season Generously:** Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it will be the foundation of the overall flavor.
4. **Cover with Water:** Pour enough water into the pot to completely submerge the chicken and vegetables. There should be about an inch or two of water above the chicken.
5. **Bring to a Boil:** Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for at least 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and very tender. The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful the broth will become. Occasionally skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
6. **Remove the Chicken:** Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place it on a plate or cutting board to cool slightly.
7. **Strain the Broth:** Place a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander over a large bowl. Slowly pour the broth through the sieve to remove the vegetables, bay leaves, and any other solids. Discard the solids, reserving the clear, flavorful broth.
8. **Debone and Shred the Chicken:** Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, debone it, removing the skin and bones. Shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces. Set aside for later.
9. **Return Broth to Pot:** Pour the strained broth back into the cleaned stockpot or Dutch oven. This is now your base for the chicken and noodles.
### Part 2: Crafting the Homemade Noodles
While the chicken is simmering and cooling, let’s prepare the homemade noodles. This is where the old-fashioned magic truly happens.
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. **Add Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
3. **Mix the Dough:** Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet. If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it comes together. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.
4. **Knead the Dough:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is important for developing the gluten in the flour, which will give the noodles their chewy texture.
5. **Rest the Dough:** Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
6. **Roll Out the Dough:** Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner the noodles, the quicker they will cook. Make sure to keep the surface lightly floured to prevent sticking.
7. **Cut the Noodles:** There are a few ways to cut the noodles:
* **Traditional Method:** Lightly flour the rolled-out dough. Loosely roll the dough up like a jelly roll. Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into thin noodles, about 1/4 inch wide. Unroll the noodles and arrange them in a single layer on a lightly floured baking sheet or cutting board to prevent sticking.
* **Pizza Cutter Method:** Use a pizza cutter to slice the rolled-out dough into thin strips of desired width. This method is quick and easy for creating uniform noodles.
* **Pasta Machine Method:** If you have a pasta machine, you can use it to roll out and cut the noodles according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. **Dry the Noodles (Optional):** For best results, allow the cut noodles to dry slightly for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help them hold their shape and prevent them from becoming mushy in the broth. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
9. **Repeat:** Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the remaining half of the dough.
### Part 3: Bringing it All Together: Cooking the Chicken and Noodles
Now that we have our broth, chicken, and noodles, it’s time to combine them and create the final dish.
1. **Bring Broth to a Simmer:** Bring the chicken broth back to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. **Add the Noodles:** Gently drop the homemade noodles into the simmering broth. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
3. **Cook the Noodles:** Cook the noodles for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender and cooked through. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the noodles. Taste a noodle to check for doneness.
4. **Add the Chicken:** Add the shredded chicken to the pot with the noodles and broth. Stir gently to combine.
5. **Simmer and Thicken:** Continue to simmer the chicken and noodles for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the broth to thicken slightly. If you prefer a thicker broth, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the pot during the last few minutes of cooking.
6. **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the chicken and noodles and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
7. **Add Butter (Optional):** For extra richness, stir in the butter during the last few minutes of cooking.
## Serving and Enjoying Your Creation
Ladle the old-fashioned chicken and noodles into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish. This is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
## Tips and Variations: Making it Your Own
* **Use a Rotisserie Chicken:** If you’re short on time, you can use a rotisserie chicken instead of cooking a whole chicken. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the broth. However, keep in mind that using a whole chicken results in a richer and more flavorful broth.
* **Add Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the chicken and noodles, such as peas, green beans, or corn. Add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, allowing them to cook through.
* **Make it Creamy:** For a creamier version, stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth for a touch of heat.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, to create a unique flavor profile.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the noodles gluten-free. Be sure to choose a blend that is designed for pasta making.
* **Slow Cooker Version:** This recipe can also be adapted for the slow cooker. Place the chicken, vegetables, seasonings, and water in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker. Cook the noodles separately according to package directions. Add the cooked noodles to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
## The Heart of the Recipe: Why It Matters
This old-fashioned chicken and noodles recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions. It’s a connection to the past, a celebration of simple pleasures, and a reminder of the comfort and love that can be found in a home-cooked meal. Taking the time to create this dish from scratch is an act of self-care and a gift to those you share it with. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and embrace the process of creating something truly special.
## Conclusion: A Bowlful of Memories
Old-fashioned chicken and noodles is a dish that transcends generations. It’s a reminder of simpler times and the enduring power of family traditions. This recipe is an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, go ahead, make a batch of this comforting classic and experience the magic for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!