Bob Evans' Chicken-N-Noodles Deep Dish features tender chunks of seasoned chicken nestled in a rich, savory gravy with hearty egg noodles, all baked under a golden, flaky pie crust, delivering a comforting blend of creamy and crispy textures.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking dish (deep pie dish or casserole dish)
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 sheet refrigerated or homemade pie crust
Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts can enhance the dish's juiciness and flavor, while fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery provide a natural sweetness and texture that complement the savory gravy. Ensuring the egg noodles are cooked al dente before baking helps maintain their bite and prevents them from becoming mushy in the final dish. Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich, creamy base for the sauce, so choosing full-fat dairy will yield the best texture and taste. Seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper balances the flavors and brings out the savory notes of the chicken and vegetables. Your Bob Evans Chicken-N-Noodles Deep Dish copycat will deliver that classic comforting blend of creamy filling and crispy golden crust, just like the original.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Dice chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in flour to make a roux; cook 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir until the mixture thickens to a creamy gravy.
- Add chicken pieces and simmer until fully cooked.
- Stir in cooked egg noodles.
- Pour mixture into baking dish.
- Roll out pie crust to fit the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with the pie crust, sealing edges; cut small slits for venting.
- Beat egg for egg wash; brush over the pie crust.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
- Remove from oven; let cool slightly before serving.
Substitution
Bob Evans' Chicken-N-Noodles Deep Dish copycat uses a rich, savory gravy thickened with butter and flour to envelop tender chicken and egg noodles under a flaky pie crust. If you don't have refrigerated pie crust on hand, puff pastry or a homemade biscuit topping can provide a similarly golden, crispy finish. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra moisture and flavor, but chicken breast works well to reduce fat content. When preparing the gravy, gradually whisk the milk and cream to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth sauce that binds the noodles and vegetables. You can prepare the filling a day ahead to save time, keeping it refrigerated until baking.
Tips
Make sure to cook the egg noodles until just tender, as they will continue to cook in the oven and can become mushy if overcooked. When preparing the roux, whisk constantly to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, thickened gravy. Use an airtight seal when covering the baking dish with the pie crust to prevent filling from leaking during baking. You should let the deep dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to set, making it easier to serve.
Nutritions
Bob Evans' Chicken-N-Noodles Deep Dish provides a balanced source of protein from tender chicken breast or thighs, essential for muscle repair and growth. The egg noodles offer carbohydrates that fuel your energy needs, while the creamy gravy made from whole milk, heavy cream, and butter supplies fats crucial for brain function and vitamin absorption. Vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting digestion and overall health. Your meal also includes herbs and spices that add antioxidants without extra calories, making this dish both nutritious and delicious.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken-N-Noodles Deep Dish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, ensure your dish is heated thoroughly in the oven to restore the creamy texture and crisp crust for the best taste experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap chicken breast with turkey breast or cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour or a cornstarch slurry instead of all-purpose flour as the thickener. Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based milk blend to reduce fat content. Try brushing the crust with melted butter instead of egg wash for a richer, golden finish.
Allergies
Bob Evans' Chicken-N-Noodles Deep Dish contains common allergens such as milk, butter, and egg, which can trigger reactions in individuals with dairy or egg allergies. The egg noodles and pie crust also contain wheat, posing a risk for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. You should carefully review ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific food sensitivities or allergies.
Why this recipe?
Chicken-N-Noodles Deep Dish from Bob Evans restaurant is loved for its hearty combination of tender chicken, rich gravy, and thick noodles baked into a comforting deep dish. The dish offers a satisfying blend of savory flavors and home-style textures that appeal to those craving a nostalgic, filling meal. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy this classic comfort food fresh and customized to your taste while saving money. Your homemade deep dish can replicate Bob Evans' signature warmth and satisfaction, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.