Chicken Buttered Noodles

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich, buttery noodles. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy sauce envelops the noodles, making every bite a comforting experience. Quick to prepare and brimming with flavor, it’s a meal that both kids and adults can enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and chicken broth creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use your choice of pasta and customize with extra toppings like cheese or spices to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: This recipe appeals to picky eaters, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Comforting Meal: Creamy buttered noodles provide warmth and satisfaction, perfect for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make Chicken Buttered Noodles successfully, having the right tools is essential. These tools will streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring spoons
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing and combining ingredients without overcrowding.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have for cooking noodles evenly until al dente.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cutting of chicken and other ingredients for uniform cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients without making a mess.

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 for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove from the pan and set aside to rest. Once slightly cooled, slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles, reserving 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 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; be careful not to burn it.

Step 6: Add Chicken Broth and Cream

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

Step 7: Toss the Noodles

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

Step 8: Add Chicken

Return sliced chicken to skillet. Toss everything together allowing flavors to meld.

Step 9: Season and Garnish

Taste dish; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle parsley on top; add red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.

Step 10: Serve

Serve Chicken Buttered Noodles hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Buttered Noodles

Serving Chicken Buttered Noodles can enhance the dining experience, making it suitable for various occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Family Style

• Serve the Chicken Buttered Noodles in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This approach encourages sharing and conversation around the table.

Individual Plates

• For a more formal setting, plate the noodles individually, garnishing each with fresh parsley and grated parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.

With a Side Salad

• Pair your noodles with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the butter sauce.

As a Potluck Dish

• Bring Chicken Buttered Noodles to gatherings. It’s easy to transport and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Topped with Protein Variations

• Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken on top for added protein. This twist keeps the dish exciting and caters to different tastes.

Leftover Innovation

• Transform leftovers into a new dish by adding sautéed vegetables or fresh herbs before reheating, ensuring no meal feels repetitive.

How to Perfect Chicken Buttered Noodles

To get the most out of your Chicken Buttered Noodles, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your dish is flavorful and satisfying every time you make it.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh thyme and parsley can elevate flavor profiles significantly compared to dried herbs.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Aim for al dente noodles, as they will hold up better when tossed in the sauce, preventing mushiness.
• Adjust Cream Consistency: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute part of it with chicken broth for balance.
• Enhance Flavor with Broth: Use homemade or quality store-bought chicken broth for richer flavor instead of water when cooking your noodles.
• Experiment with Spice Levels: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite spices to cater to varying spice preferences among diners.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjusting seasoning at this stage ensures everyone enjoys the perfect flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Buttered Noodles

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Buttered Noodles can create a complete meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment that adds crunch and flavor while soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the noodles.
3. Caesar Salad: A creamy Caesar salad adds a tangy contrast that complements the buttery flavors of the main dish.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender enhances both presentation and taste.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the noodles.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings sweetness and freshness, serving as a palate cleanser between bites.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory dishes like Chicken Buttered Noodles.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds fun texture and flavor contrast as an enjoyable summer side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Buttered Noodles, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and remove it from the heat promptly.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta cooking water may result in a sauce that’s too thick. Set aside at least ½ cup before draining your noodles.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily, leading to a bitter taste. Sauté it just until fragrant, about one minute, before adding other ingredients.
• Using cold cream: Adding cold heavy cream directly into a hot skillet can cause curdling. Let it come to room temperature first, or warm it slightly before adding.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Buttered Noodles in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken Buttered Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chicken Buttered Noodles

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place noodles in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot. Stir between intervals for even heating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water while stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Buttered Noodles that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use different types of pasta for Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with any pasta shape you prefer, like fettuccine or spaghetti.

How can I make Chicken Buttered Noodles healthier?

To lighten the dish, consider using less butter and substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative. You can also add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.

What should I serve with Chicken Buttered Noodles?

This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I customize my Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. You could also add grated cheese on top or incorporate different proteins like turkey.

How do I store leftover Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a suitable container for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich, buttery noodles. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your family’s tastes, whether by adding veggies or adjusting seasonings. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

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Chicken Buttered Noodles

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Chicken Buttered Noodles is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken with rich, buttery noodles. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering a creamy sauce that envelops every bite. With its quick preparation time and flavor-packed ingredients, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Customize it with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile meal that fits any palate.

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Ingredients

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• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz egg noodles or preferred pasta
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and slice.
3. Boil salted water in a pot, add pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat; add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes; stir in cream and let thicken.
6. Toss drained noodles into the sauce and add sliced chicken back in. Mix well, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
7. Season to taste and serve hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 250g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg