Quick and Easy Chicken in a Parmesan White Sauce
I dont recall where I got this recipe but this is a quick and easy weeknight dinner My family loves this dish You can also just make the noodles and use as a side dish Also freezes well
I dont recall where I got this recipe but this is a quick and easy weeknight dinner My family loves this dish You can also just make the noodles and use as a side dish Also freezes well
- Carbohydrate 64.5341565310517 g
- Cholesterol 229.781483461504 mg
- Fat 36.7342588202392 g
- Fiber 3.20349606298663 g
- Protein 68.3211525902714 g
- Saturated Fat 6.8697258832069 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (381g)
- Sodium 681.705666605882 mg
- Sugar 61.330660468065 g
- Trans Fat 3.47799126960712 g
- Calories 874 calories
Step-by-step
- Cut chicken into bite-size pieces.
- Marinate chicken in the 8 ounces of ranch dressing. Marinate for 30 minutes. (I normally marinate for about 8 hours in the fridge.)
- Cook chicken until done.
- While chicken is cooking, cook egg noodles according to package directions.
- Drain noodles and add butter.
- Add the ranch packet, half-and-half, and parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Add chicken to the noodle mixture and serve.
- If you want a creamier sauce, add more half-and-half. Or, if you like more cheese, add it.
- This also freezes well if you undercook the noodles before freezing. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge the night before and reheat in the microwave. You may need to add more half-and-half when reheating.
Quick and Easy Chicken in a Parmesan White Sauce: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy mom, finding quick and easy weeknight dinners is a constant struggle. Balancing work, kids' activities, and everything else life throws at us leaves little time for elaborate cooking. That's why I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and simple to prepare. This chicken in a parmesan white sauce recipe fits the bill perfectly. It's a crowd-pleaser, even my picky eaters devour it without complaint, and best of all, it comes together in a flash.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. It's a perfect weeknight meal, but it's also versatile enough to serve as a satisfying side dish. Simply cook the noodles separately, toss them in the buttery parmesan sauce, and you've got a delicious accompaniment to any protein. Another bonus? This recipe freezes beautifully! I often double the recipe and freeze half for a future quick meal, a real lifesaver on those extra busy evenings. The key to successful freezing is to slightly undercook the noodles before freezing to prevent them from becoming mushy when reheated.
The Ingredients: A Simple Symphony of Flavors
The ingredient list is short and sweet, featuring pantry staples and readily available items. We're talking boneless chicken breasts (easily substituted with thighs if preferred), egg noodles (any shape will do!), butter (or margarine, for those who prefer it), a packet of Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix (the secret to the creamy sauce!), half-and-half (for extra richness), and parmesan cheese (the more, the merrier!).
Beyond the Recipe: Tips and Tricks
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor it to your preferences. A dash of garlic powder or onion powder adds extra depth of flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a touch of freshness and vibrancy.
The marinating time is flexible. While I recommend at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor, I often marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator for a more intense flavor profile. The longer the marination time, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will be. If time is of the essence, a shorter marination period is perfectly fine.
Serving Suggestions and Beyond
This dish is wonderful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the creamy sauce. Steamed broccoli or green beans add a healthy and colorful element to the plate.
The versatility of this recipe makes it a true weeknight staple. It’s simple enough for a quick dinner after a long day, but elegant enough to serve to guests. Its ability to be frozen also adds a level of convenience that busy families will appreciate.
So, the next time you're looking for a delicious and easy meal that the whole family will love, give this Quick and Easy Chicken in a Parmesan White Sauce a try. You won't be disappointed. It's a recipe that's quickly become a favorite in my household, and I'm confident it will become one of yours too.
