Chicken Buttered Noodles

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy weeknight meal. This recipe features tender chicken and buttery noodles enveloped in a creamy sauce. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among both kids and adults, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The rich and creamy sauce combined with tender chicken provides ultimate comfort.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the egg noodles for your preferred pasta type, allowing for personalization.
• Kid-Friendly Option: Children love the mild flavors and creamy texture, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• One-Pan Cooking: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to enjoy your meal!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and creating the sauce all in one pan.
• Pot for boiling noodles: Ensures even cooking of your pasta, which is crucial for texture.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing chicken safely.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Noodles

• 8 oz (about 225g) egg noodles or your preferred pasta

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

• Grated parmesan cheese for topping
• Red pepper flakes for added spice

How to Make Chicken Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let them rest before slicing into strips.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While cooking the chicken, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles but reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 4: Melt the Butter

In the same skillet used for chicken, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and melt it while scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Sauté the Garlic

With melted butter in the skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant; be careful not to burn it.

Step 6: Add Chicken Broth and Cream

Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in heavy cream and let simmer for another 3-4 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Toss the Noodles

Add drained noodles to the skillet. Toss gently in butter sauce until evenly coated. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Step 8: Add Chicken

Return sliced chicken to skillet with noodles. Toss everything together so that flavors meld beautifully.

Step 9: Season and Garnish

Taste your dish! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle parsley on top, adding red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.

Step 10: Serve

Serve your Chicken Buttered Noodles hot! You can top with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 700 calories
Carbs: 60g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g

How to Serve Chicken Buttered Noodles

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and nutritious, steamed broccoli complements the creamy noodles perfectly.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds color and a healthy touch to your plate.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the soft noodles.
• Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness to balance the richness.

Top with Extras

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese enhances flavor and adds a delightful finish.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

How to Perfect Chicken Buttered Noodles

To make your Chicken Buttered Noodles truly outstanding, follow these tips for the best results.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts and real butter make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: This ensures they hold their shape and texture while absorbing the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook Garlic: Sauté until fragrant; burnt garlic can ruin the dish’s taste.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding a splash of starchy pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
• Let Chicken Rest: Allowing cooked chicken to rest before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Buttered Noodles

Serving Chicken Buttered Noodles alongside complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery bread pairs wonderfully with creamy pasta dishes.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add depth and nutrition to your meal.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with rich noodles.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, tender corn is always a crowd-pleaser and adds sweetness to your plate.
5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes can be dressed up with toppings for an extra hearty side.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides sweetness and balances out the rich flavors of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Buttered Noodles can be straightforward, but some common mistakes can diminish the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Failing to season your chicken well can result in bland meat. Always use salt and pepper generously on both sides before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and remove it from heat right away.
• Ignoring pasta instructions: Overcooking the noodles can lead to mushiness. Follow package instructions and cook until al dente for the best results.
• Neglecting sauce consistency: Making the sauce too thick or too watery can ruin the dish. Adjust with reserved pasta water to achieve a silky consistency.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly. Always finish with parsley, or add other herbs you enjoy for extra freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Buttered Noodles in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Buttered Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating Chicken Buttered Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Buttered Noodles.

What type of pasta is best for Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Egg noodles are traditional, but you can use any pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine based on your preference.

Can I make Chicken Buttered Noodles ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything except combining the noodles with the sauce ahead of time. Store components separately and combine when ready to serve.

How do I customize my Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition. You can also adjust herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Are Chicken Buttered Noodles kid-friendly?

Absolutely! This dish is simple and creamy, making it appealing to picky eaters.

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Certainly! Using leftover cooked chicken reduces prep time and makes this dish even quicker to prepare.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that combines comfort with simplicity. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and customizable nature make it perfect for any dinner table. Experiment with different vegetables or spices to find your favorite version!