Chicken Buttered Noodles

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that perfectly combines tender chicken with creamy, buttery noodles. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, offering comfort and flavor in every bite. With its rich sauce and simple preparation, Chicken Buttered Noodles quickly becomes a family favorite that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of garlic, butter, and cream creates a rich and savory sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the pasta for your favorite type or even use different herbs based on what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its creamy texture and satisfying flavors, this dish is sure to impress both family and friends.
• Protein-Packed: Featuring chicken as the main ingredient, it’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without sacrificing nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Buttered Noodles, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken while providing enough room to toss in the noodles later.
• Pot for boiling noodles: A large pot is essential for cooking pasta properly without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve the perfect balance of flavors in the sauce.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for safely slicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing it into the dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Pasta

• 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)

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
• ½ cup heavy cream

Seasoning

• 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 (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove from pan and set aside to rest. After cooling slightly, slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While cooking the chicken, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain while reserving 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 allow it to melt while scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Sauté the Garlic

Once melted, add minced garlic to skillet. 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 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly. Then stir in heavy cream; let simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Toss the Noodles

Add drained noodles to skillet. Gently toss them in butter sauce until evenly coated. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen it up.

Step 8: Add Chicken

Return sliced chicken to skillet. Toss everything together so that chicken absorbs flavors from sauce.

Step 9: Season and Garnish

Taste your dish; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle parsley over top; consider adding red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 10: Serve

Serve your Chicken Buttered Noodles hot. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese if you like!

How to Serve Chicken Buttered Noodles

Serving Chicken Buttered Noodles can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few sprigs of thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the dish.

With a Side of Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and crunchiness pair nicely with the creamy noodles.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sauté spinach in olive oil for a nutritious and flavorful side.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic option, the crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the noodles.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a light, refreshing contrast.

Topped with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of parmesan adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess to the dish.
• Feta Crumbles: For a tangy twist, try topping your noodles with crumbled feta cheese.

How to Perfect Chicken Buttered Noodles

Creating the perfect Chicken Buttered Noodles is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure the chicken breasts are cooked just right to keep them juicy; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta cooking water handy; it’s great for adjusting sauce consistency.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to avoid overpowering flavors in the dish.
• Experiment with Pasta Types: While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for variation.
• Add Spice Wisely: If you enjoy heat, red pepper flakes should be added gradually to achieve your desired spice level without overwhelming the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Buttered Noodles

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Buttered Noodles can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy accompaniment that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprout leaves provide texture and a slightly bitter contrast to rich noodles.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing refreshes the palate after each decadent bite.
4. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds variety while its tangy flavor complements the creamy pasta.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears offer a gourmet touch alongside Chicken Buttered Noodles.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds an enjoyable sweetness that balances out savory flavors in the main dish.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for a hearty side that pairs well with creamy sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Buttered Noodles can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect juiciness.
• Neglecting Pasta Cooking Time: Cooking noodles longer than recommended can result in mushy pasta. Always follow package instructions and test for al dente texture.
• Skipping the Reserved Pasta Water: Not saving some pasta water can lead to a thick sauce. Reserve about ½ cup to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily. Sauté it just until fragrant, about one minute, to avoid bitterness.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Failing to taste the dish before serving may result in bland flavors. Always adjust seasoning at the end for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Buttered Noodles in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Buttered Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Chicken Buttered Noodles

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place noodles in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Microwave on medium power in a covered bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding reserved pasta water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Buttered Noodles that might help you in your cooking journey.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any preferred pasta.

How can I make Chicken Buttered Noodles healthier?

Consider using whole grain or vegetable-based noodles and reducing butter by replacing some with olive oil.

What is the best way to season my Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Always taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference just before serving.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers work well. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking for best texture.

How do I store leftovers of Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various pasta types or add vegetables as desired. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!