Chicken Buttered Noodles

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and buttery noodles in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, quick weeknight meals, or when you’re craving something cozy. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, Chicken Buttered Noodles stands out as a versatile dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, butter, and chicken broth creates a savory sauce that enhances every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use your favorite pasta or swap in different herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Kid-Friendly: With its creamy texture and mild taste, this dish is sure to please picky eaters.
• Satisfying Meal: Packed with protein from the chicken and carbs from the noodles, it’s a filling option for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for a smooth experience. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating the perfect Chicken Buttered Noodles.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly and creating the sauce all in one pan.
• Pot for Boiling Noodles: A large pot allows enough space for the noodles to cook properly without sticking together.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for slicing chicken after cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through the chicken breast.

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

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

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

Step 4: Melt the Butter

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

Step 5: Sauté the Garlic

Once melted, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but avoid burning it.

Step 6: Add Chicken Broth and Cream

Pour in your chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly. Then stir in heavy cream, allowing it to simmer an additional 3-4 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Toss in Noodles

Add drained noodles to your skillet. Toss gently in butter sauce until evenly coated. If too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen up.

Step 8: Add Chicken Back In

Return sliced chicken to skillet. 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 over top; consider adding red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Serve your Chicken Buttered Noodles hot with freshly grated parmesan cheese on top if desired. Enjoy this delicious meal!

How to Serve Chicken Buttered Noodles

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Serve with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: A healthy addition that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach complements the creaminess of the noodles perfectly.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a beautiful contrast to the savory flavors.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a refreshing balance to the rich noodles.
• Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a light touch to your meal.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs: Top with extra parsley or basil for added freshness and visual appeal.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors and adds a zesty twist.

How to Perfect Chicken Buttered Noodles

To achieve the ideal Chicken Buttered Noodles, consider these helpful tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic will significantly boost the flavor profile of your dish.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: This ensures your noodles maintain their texture when tossed in the sauce.
• Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to add more or less heavy cream based on your preference for richness.
• Let Chicken Rest: Allowing cooked chicken to rest helps retain its juices, making it more tender when sliced.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding other herbs such as oregano or rosemary for different flavor notes.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Buttered Noodles

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Buttered Noodles can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy companion that’s perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
2. Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens provide crunch and balance out the richness of the noodles.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add elegance and nutrition to your meal.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy noodles.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that pairs well with chicken.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor that complements the savory elements of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Buttered Noodles can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to use salt, pepper, and herbs generously.
• Bold overcooking noodles: Cooking the noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely for al dente pasta.
• Bold rushing the sauce: Skipping the simmering time for the sauce might leave it too thin. Allow it to reduce for a richer flavor and thicker consistency.
• Bold not resting chicken: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Bold ignoring pasta water: Forgetting about reserved pasta water can affect sauce consistency. Use it to adjust thickness as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chicken Buttered Noodles

• You can freeze leftovers by placing them in freezer-safe containers.
• They will keep well for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Buttered Noodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the noodles in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or water to a skillet over medium heat, add noodles, and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Chicken Buttered Noodles that might help you:

What is Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken with buttery noodles, garlic, and herbs for rich flavor.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute any favorite pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine without losing flavor.

How do I make Chicken Buttered Noodles healthier?

You can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options and reduce butter or cream for a lighter version without sacrificing taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, then combine with freshly cooked noodles just before serving for the best texture.

What sides pair well with Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Consider serving steamed vegetables or a light salad on the side to balance out this rich dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Buttered Noodles is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or changing up the herbs. This dish promises comfort food at its best—perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals. Give it a try!