How to Cook Egg Noodles in Chicken Broth: A Step-by-Step Guide

Egg noodles are a pantry staple that can be used in a variety of dishes. One of the tastiest ways to prepare them is in chicken broth. The savory broth infuses the noodles with flavor, resulting in a simple yet satisfying meal. This easy recipe only requires a few ingredients and can be customized in endless ways. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook egg noodles in chicken broth.

Ingredients

• Egg noodles (about 6 ounces dry)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional additions: chopped vegetables, cooked chicken, herbs

Step 1: Bring the Broth to a Boil

In a big pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over high heat. You can use homemade broth or store-bought. Make sure you use good broth because the taste will affect the end result.

If desired add any vegetables you want cooked directly in the broth like carrots celery, onion, or garlic. Simmer the vegetables for 5-10 minutes before adding the noodles.

Step 2: Add the Egg Noodles

Add the dry egg noodles and stir them in when the broth starts to boil. Four cups of broth should be enough for six ounces of noodles. If the noodles aren’t fully submerged, add a little more broth.

Stir the noodles often while they boil for two minutes. This gives them a little extra cooking time before you let them simmer.

Step 3: Reduce Heat and Simmer

After boiling for 2 minutes, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the noodles simmer for 5-7 minutes, until they are tender but still have a bit of firmness.

Every minute or so, stir the noodles gently to keep them from sticking. Add a splash of water if the broth starts to dry out too quickly.

Step 4: Stir in Butter and Seasonings

When the noodles have finished simmering, turn off the heat. Add the butter and stir until it melts completely. This gives the broth a nice richness.

Season with salt, pepper, or any other seasonings you desire. Popular choices are garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, thyme, or red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Customize with Mix-Ins (Optional)

For extra protein, stir in diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or cubes of ham. The noodles also pair well with sauteed mushrooms or wilted greens like spinach or kale.

Grate in a bit of Parmesan cheese or stir in a dollop of pesto for a flavor boost. The possibilities are endless!

Step 6: Enjoy Your Noodles

That’s it! Your egg noodles cooked in savory chicken broth are ready to enjoy. Dish into bowls and garnish with extra herbs or Parmesan if desired.

This simple yet satisfying dish works well as a light lunch or dinner. The noodles can also be used as a base for chicken soup by adding more mix-in ingredients. Leftovers will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Variations and Tips

• Use vegetable or beef broth instead of chicken.
• Add diced onions, carrots, and celery and turn it into chicken noodle soup.
• For a creamier texture, stir in milk, cream, or cream cheese at the end.
• Cook and shred a chicken breast in the broth before adding noodles.
• Swap the egg noodles for pasta shapes like farfalle, rotini, or orzo.
• Season the broth with garlic, lemon, thyme, chili flakes, or other robust flavors.
• To make it vegan, use vegetable broth and olive oil instead of chicken broth and butter.

Cooking egg noodles in broth is an easy way to create a flavorful, hearty meal. Follow this simple technique and then get creative with ingredients to make it your own. This noodle dish makes good use of inexpensive pantry items and requires minimal time and effort. Give it a try soon!