How to Cook Reames Noodles in Chicken Broth: The Ultimate Comfort Food Guide

Have you ever craved that perfect bowl of comforting noodles that warms you from the inside out? Well, I’m about to share my absolute favorite way to prepare Reames noodles in chicken broth This simple yet delicious dish has been my go-to comfort food for years, and I’m excited to share all my tips and tricks with you!

What Are Reames Noodles?

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s get familiar with these amazing noodles. Reames noodles are frozen egg noodles that have been around for over 60 years! Created by Jay Reames back in 1952, these noodles quickly became a beloved staple in American kitchens.

What makes them special? Unlike dry pasta Reames noodles are

• Pre-cooked before freezing
• Made with just three simple ingredients: eggs, flour, and water
• Thicker and heartier than regular pasta
• Perfect for absorbing the flavors of whatever they’re cooked in

The sturdy texture and rich eggy flavor make them ideal for cooking in flavorful liquids like chicken broth.

Why Cook Reames Noodles in Chicken Broth?

You might be wondering, “Why not just cook them in water?” Trust me, once you try them in broth, you’ll never go back! Here’s why:

• The savory chicken broth infuses the noodles with incredible flavor
• The noodles absorb the broth, creating a natural, flavorful “sauce”
• The combination creates the ultimate comfort food experience
• It’s a simple one-pot meal that tastes like it took hours

The Secret to Perfect Reames Noodles in Chicken Broth

The key to success with these noodles lies in understanding the hydration process. Since Reames noodles are already partially cooked they primarily need to rehydrate and heat through. The biggest mistake people make is overcooking them which results in mushy noodles. Nobody wants that!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s my foolproof method for cooking Reames noodles in chicken broth:

Ingredients:

• 1 package (12 oz) Reames frozen egg noodles
• 6 cups high-quality chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced (optional)
• 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Prepare the broth: In a medium-sized pot or saucepan, bring your chicken broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. If adding vegetables, add them now.

2. Add the noodles: Once the broth is simmering (not boiling!), gently add the Reames noodles. You can add them directly from the freezer – no need to thaw first!

3. Simmer to perfection: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the noodles, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for approximately 5-7 minutes. They should be tender but still have a slight firmness when bitten.

4. Season: Add salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or seasonings to taste.

5. Serve and enjoy: Once the noodles reach your desired tenderness, remove from heat and serve immediately.

Tips and Tricks for Success

After many delicious trials (and a few errors), I’ve gathered these helpful tips:

• Don’t overcrowd the pot: Cook too many noodles at once and they’ll stick together and cook unevenly.
• Stir frequently: This prevents the noodles from sticking together and ensures even cooking.
• Watch the broth level: If it reduces too quickly, add a little more to prevent the noodles from drying out.
• Use the right ratio: A good starting point is 2 cups of broth for every 1 cup of noodles.
• Avoid boiling: A gentle simmer is all you need – boiling can damage the delicate noodles.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning as needed to achieve your perfect flavor.

Delicious Variations to Try

One thing I love about this dish is how versatile it is! Here are some of my favorite ways to customize it:

Add Protein:

• Shredded rotisserie chicken
• Diced ham
• Browned ground turkey

Add Vegetables:

• Diced carrots and celery (add these to the broth before the noodles)
• Frozen peas (add in the last 2 minutes of cooking)
• Fresh spinach (stir in just before serving)
• Sliced mushrooms

Flavor Boosters:

• A splash of cream at the end
• A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
• Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill
• A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
• Red pepper flakes for heat

Frequently Asked Questions

Over the years, I’ve been asked lots of questions about cooking Reames noodles. Here are the most common ones:

Can I use frozen Reames noodles directly in chicken broth?

Absolutely! No need to thaw them first. Just add them directly to your simmering broth. They may need an extra minute or two of cooking time compared to thawed noodles.

What’s the best broth-to-noodle ratio?

Start with 2:1 broth-to-noodle ratio (e.g., 2 cups of broth for 1 cup of noodles). You can adjust based on how soupy or thick you want your final dish.

How do I prevent Reames noodles from becoming mushy?

The #1 rule: don’t overcook them! Begin checking for doneness after 5 minutes and remove from heat when they’re tender but still have a slight bite. Using a lower heat setting also helps prevent rapid starch release.

Can I add vegetables to the chicken broth while cooking the noodles?

Yes! Add harder vegetables like carrots and celery to the broth BEFORE adding the noodles, so they have time to soften. Quick-cooking veggies like spinach or peas can be added in the last few minutes.

Can I make this in a pressure cooker?

Yes, but be careful! Reames noodles cook very quickly under pressure. I recommend cooking on low pressure for just 1-2 minutes, followed by a quick pressure release.

Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the noodles will continue to absorb broth and become softer over time. When reheating, you might want to add a splash more broth.

Why This Dish Never Gets Old

There’s something magical about the simplicity of well-made Reames noodles in chicken broth. On cold winter evenings or when I’m feeling under the weather, this is the dish I turn to time and again. The rich, savory broth combined with those tender, eggy noodles creates comfort in a bowl.

What I love most is that it feels like a labor of love, but it’s actually ready in about 20 minutes. It’s economical, satisfying, and always hits the spot.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Reames noodles in chicken broth might seem simple, but getting it just right makes all the difference. Remember these key points:

• Use high-quality broth for maximum flavor
• Avoid overcooking the noodles
• Stir frequently to prevent sticking
• Don’t be afraid to customize with your favorite add-ins

Now grab a package of Reames noodles from your freezer, heat up some chicken broth, and get ready to experience comfort food perfection!

Have you tried cooking Reames noodles in chicken broth before? What are your favorite add-ins? I’d love to hear your thoughts and variations in the comments below!