Chicken Buttered Noodles is a comforting and delicious dish perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals. This recipe offers a delightful blend of tender chicken, egg noodles, and a rich garlic butter sauce that will impress everyone at the table. It’s easy to make and versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual gatherings to cozy nights in. The standout feature of this dish is its creamy texture combined with savory flavors that make each bite satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter, garlic, and chicken broth creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the egg noodles for your favorite pasta or add veggies for extra nutrition.
- Comfort Food: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make this dish the ultimate comfort food.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the taste of Chicken Buttered Noodles, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Tools and Preparation
To make Chicken Buttered Noodles, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Skillet: A good skillet allows you to sear the chicken evenly while creating a flavorful base for your sauce.
- Pot for Boiling Noodles: A large pot ensures that your noodles have enough space to cook evenly without sticking together.
- Cutting Board & Knife: These are essential for safely slicing your chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Chicken Buttered Noodles:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (about 225g) egg noodles or your preferred pasta
- 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: Grated parmesan cheese for topping
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for added spice
Ingredient Highlights:
– Chicken Breasts: Lean and protein-packed, chicken breasts serve as the star of the dish. They’re quick to cook and versatile, absorbing the flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
– Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional but can be substituted with any pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine.
– Butter: Key for a rich sauce that enhances flavor.
– Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth that balances the dish.
– Heavy Cream: Provides richness and creaminess to the sauce.
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 hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove from pan and set aside to rest. Once cooled slightly, slice them into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
While cooking chicken, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain noodles but reserve about ½ cup of pasta cooking 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 bottom of pan.
Step 5: Sauté the Garlic
Once butter is melted, 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; bring it to simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until reducing slightly. Then stir in heavy cream; let simmer again for an additional 3-4 minutes until thickened.
Step 7: Toss the Noodles
Add drained noodles into skillet; toss gently in butter sauce until evenly coated. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.
Step 8: Add the Chicken
Return sliced chicken back into skillet; toss everything together allowing flavors to meld.
Step 9: Season and Garnish
Taste dish; adjust seasoning with salt & pepper if needed. Sprinkle parsley on top; optional red pepper flakes can add some heat.
Step 10: Serve
Serve Chicken Buttered Noodles hot topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Chicken Buttered Noodles
Serving Chicken Buttered Noodles can elevate your meal experience, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your serving presentation.
Family Style
- Serve the Chicken Buttered Noodles in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, communal dining atmosphere.
Individual Plates
- For a more formal setting, plate the noodles with sliced chicken on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan for an elegant touch.
With Extra Sauce
- Offer extra garlic butter sauce on the side for those who love a richer flavor. This can be especially enticing for guests who enjoy saucy dishes.
Accompanied by Bread
- Pair the dish with crusty bread or garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce and adds a satisfying crunch to the meal.
Salad on the Side
- A fresh green salad can complement the richness of Chicken Buttered Noodles perfectly. Consider a simple vinaigrette dressing for balance.
Wine Pairing
- Suggest pairing your meal with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in these wines cuts through the richness of the butter sauce beautifully.
How to Perfect Chicken Buttered Noodles
Achieving perfection with Chicken Buttered Noodles involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure you nail this recipe every time.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken breasts, high-quality butter, and homemade or low-sodium broth for better flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooked chicken can become dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Perfectly Cooked Noodles: Follow package instructions carefully to achieve al dente noodles that hold up well in the sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Season Generously: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance flavors throughout the dish.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add color and freshness, making your dish more appetizing visually.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Buttered Noodles
Complementing your Chicken Buttered Noodles with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread – Warm and crispy, it’s great for soaking up leftover sauce.
- Caesar Salad – A classic salad that adds crunch and a tangy flavor contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli – Offers color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the noodles.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy outside and tender inside, they add depth to your meal.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide brightness alongside creamy noodles.
- Coleslaw – Crunchy and slightly sweet slaw can cut through the richness of the dish.
- Grilled Asparagus – Lightly charred asparagus enhances flavors while adding elegance to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn pairs well with buttery flavors, making it a seasonal favorite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Chicken Buttered Noodles, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken breasts for too long can make them dry. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: Forgetting to save pasta water can lead to a sauce that’s too thick. Always reserve some before draining the noodles; it helps adjust sauce consistency.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly if sautéed on high heat. Cook it gently until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t turn brown, which can create a bitter taste.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland noodles. Be sure to taste the dish before serving and add salt or pepper as needed.
- Skimping on Butter: Using too little butter will affect the richness of the sauce. Don’t be afraid to use the full amount for a velvety texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Buttered Noodles
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- The dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Chicken Buttered Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or water in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Chicken Buttered Noodles that might help you in your cooking journey.
Can I use other types of pasta for Chicken Buttered Noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.
How do I make Chicken Buttered Noodles healthier?
You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk for a lighter version while still keeping the creamy texture.
What can I add for more flavor in Chicken Buttered Noodles?
Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or spices like Italian seasoning for added flavor and nutrition.
Is it possible to make Chicken Buttered Noodles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it. Just remember to reheat gently so you don’t overcook the chicken again.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Buttered Noodles is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s perfect for any night of the week!
Chicken Buttered Noodles
Chicken Buttered Noodles is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals. This recipe features tender chicken, egg noodles, and a luscious garlic butter sauce that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture. In just about 40 minutes, you can create a delightful meal that will impress both kids and adults alike. Its versatility allows for easy customization – swap out egg noodles for your favorite pasta or add in vegetables to boost nutrition. Whether you’re having a casual gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, Chicken Buttered Noodles is sure to please.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz egg noodles (or preferred pasta)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Sear chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice.
- Cook egg noodles in salted boiling water according to package instructions; drain and reserve some pasta water.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and let it simmer before stirring in heavy cream. Allow sauce to thicken.
- Toss cooked noodles in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Return sliced chicken to the skillet; mix until combined.
- Adjust seasoning and serve hot, garnished with parsley or parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
