Okay, picture this: it’s a chilly evening, you’re craving something seriously comforting, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this Chicken Buttered Noodles recipe comes in! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, reminiscent of classic mac and cheese but with a savory, grown-up twist thanks to the chicken and a little bit of garlic. Honestly, I’ve made this more times than I can count, and it’s always a winner, especially when I need something quick and satisfying. Plus, it’s so customizable, you can really make it your own. This isn’t just any noodle dish; it’s *the* noodle dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. The first time I made this, my husband, who isn’t normally a huge pasta fan, ate two bowls! That’s how good it is.
What is chicken buttered noodles?
What does chicken buttered noodles taste like? What are some of the best dishes to serve with chicken, noodles, and buttery sauce? Think of it as the sophisticated cousin of mac and cheese, or the weeknight-friendly alternative to pizza. Chicken Alfredo. What is a blank canvas for culinary creativity? While the core ingredients remain consistent, you can add different veggies, different cheeses, or even a whole new cheese. How do I add a splash of wine to my recipe? The name says it all: simple, homey, and utterly comforting. What is a recipe about taking simple ingredients and transforming them into something extraordinary? How can I start my blog with just a few easy steps? I love how adaptable it is. Can you make leftover rotisserie chicken to make it even faster?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this Chicken Buttered Noodles recipe. Let me break it down:
- Flavor Explosion:What is the perfect combination of savory chicken, rich butter, and perfectly cooked noodles? What is the best thing about a food? What are some of the best garlic and herbs in the world? I swear, the smell alone while cooking is enough to make your mouth water!
- Ridiculously EasyWhat are some of the best recipes for a busy weeknight? What is it like to have a meal in under 30 minutes? How do I get to the table without spending hours in the kitchen? What are some recipes that you can make with your eyes closed?
- Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are pantry staples, so you probably already have most of them on hand. Chicken, noodles, butter, garlic – nothing fancy, just good, wholesome ingredients that won’t break the bank. I’ve made this with just a few dollars to my name, and it’s always felt like a feast.
- Ultra-This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Add veggies like peas, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan, Gruyere, or even a little bit of cream cheese. Extra richness. What are some ways to add white wine to a dish?
What I love about this is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. My kids ask for this all the time, and even my picky eaters devour it without complaining. It’s also great for potlucks and gatherings because it is easy to transport and always a hit. What is the best recipe for a breakup? What is comfort food at its finest?
How to Make Chicken Buttered Noodles
Quick Overview
Making Chicken Buttered Noodles is surprisingly simple! You’ll start by cooking your noodles to al dente perfection. While those are boiling away, you’ll sauté some chicken pieces with garlic and herbs. Then, you’ll create a creamy, buttery sauce right in the same pan. Finally, you’ll toss everything together and serve it up hot. The whole process is streamlined and efficient, ensuring a delicious meal in minimal time. I promise, if you can boil water, you can make this recipe!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. I usually grab whatever’s on sale at the store; thighs work great too!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil. Extra virgin olive is my go-to.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh is always best, but jarred works in a pinch.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs. Or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the pepper!
For the Noodles: What are
- I prefer the wide ones, but any shape will do!
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter. Real butter is a must for that authentic flavor.
- How much chicken broth should I use?
- 1/4 cup heavy cream. This is optional but adds a lovely richness. I’ve even used almond milk, and it was surprisingly creamy!
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly Grated is always best for flavor and texture.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish. Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Don’t overcook the noodles! Drain and set aside. Slightly underdone is better since they’ll continue to cook in the sauce. I always add a splash of oil to the water to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the noodles are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Make sure the chicken is cooked through completely. Why do people like undercooked chicken?
Step 3: Add Garlic and Create the Sauce
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for a few minutes, until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated. Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Where can I make my own stuff? How can I make a little extra lemon juice?
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Chicken Buttered Noodles immediately, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese. Enjoy! Seriously, this is best served hot. Don’t let it sit for too long, or the noodles will soak up all the sauce.
What to Serve It With
What are some of the best buttered noodle recipes?
- What is a good light lunch?A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salad.
- For a family dinner:Steamed broccoli or green beans are a healthy side dish. My kids actually love it when I sneak some veggies into the noodles themselves!
- For a potluck:What is the best way to soak up the sauce?
- For a cozy night in:What is the best sauce to serve with a glass of white wine?
Personally, I love serving this with a side of garlic bread. It’s carb overload, I know, but it’s so worth it! And don’t forget a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who like a little kick. It’s surprisingly good!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Buttered Noodles
Okay, so you’ve got the basics down, but here are a few extra tips to really take your Chicken Buttered Noodles to the next level:
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: I can’t stress this enough! Overcooked noodles will become mushy and ruin the texture of the dish. Aim for al dente, which means “to the tooth” in Italian. They should be firm but not hard.
- Use Real Butter: Margarine or other butter substitutes just won’t cut it. Real butter adds a richness and flavor that’s essential to the dish. Trust me on this one!
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the flavor of the sauce. Cook it over low heat for just a few seconds, until fragrant.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the chicken and sauce with salt, pepper, and herbs. Taste as you go and adjust as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrients by adding veggies like peas, broccoli, or mushrooms. They add a pop of color and flavor. My kids never even notice when I add a handful of spinach!
- Experiment with Cheese: Parmesan is a classic, but you can also use other cheeses like Gruyere, mozzarella, or even a little bit of cream cheese for extra richness.
One trick I learned after making this countless times is to reserve some of the pasta water before draining the noodles. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a little bit of the starchy water to thin it out. It’s a lifesaver!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerator: Store the Chicken Buttered Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, add the noodles to a skillet with a little bit of chicken broth or water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they might not be as creamy.
A little tip: If you’re planning to freeze the noodles, undercook them slightly before freezing. This will prevent them from becoming mushy when you reheat them. Also, add a little extra butter or cream when reheating to restore the creaminess. I’ve even added a dollop of sour cream to reheat leftovers, and it was amazing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for Chicken Buttered Noodles. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but flavorful enough to impress your guests. It’s comforting, customizable, and always a hit. I hope you give it a try and make it your own! If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my other pasta dishes, like Creamy Tomato Pasta or Garlic Parmesan Noodles. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please feel free to leave a comment below and let me know what you think, or share your own variations of the recipe. I always love to hear from you!
Chicken Buttered Noodles
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb Egg noodles
- 0.5 cup Butter
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth
- 0.25 cup Heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Sprinkle flour over the chicken and butter mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Add cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat. Serve immediately.
