why make this recipe
Chicken Buttered Noodles is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken and delicious noodles drenched in a creamy garlic butter sauce. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a cozy meal. The balance of flavors from the garlic, thyme, and creamy sauce makes each bite satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to please the whole family!
how to make Chicken Buttered Noodles
Ingredients:
- 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
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 the traditional pasta for this dish, but you can substitute with any pasta of your choice, like spaghetti or fettuccine.
Butter: The key ingredient for a rich, velvety sauce that coats the noodles and enhances the chicken’s flavor.
Chicken Broth: The broth brings in savory depth, ensuring the dish is perfectly balanced.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the sauce, creating a luxurious coating for the noodles.
Directions:
- 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.
- Sear the Chicken: Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook 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. Once cooled slightly, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the Noodles: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Melt the Butter: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and allow it to melt, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Sauté the Garlic: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the Chicken Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, thickening slightly.
- Toss the Noodles: Add the drained noodles to the skillet, tossing them gently in the butter sauce until they are evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Add the Chicken: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and toss everything together, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle the parsley over the top and, if you like, add some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Buttered Noodles hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, if desired.
how to serve Chicken Buttered Noodles
You can serve Chicken Buttered Noodles in a large bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with additional parsley and parmesan cheese. This dish goes well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
how to store Chicken Buttered Noodles
To store leftovers, place Chicken Buttered Noodles in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last up to 3 days in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce when reheating.
tips to make Chicken Buttered Noodles
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Make sure to check the internal temperature to keep it juicy.
- Feel free to customize the herbs. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor.
- If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced chili peppers.
- Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce thickness; it will add starchy flavor.
variation
For a lighter version, consider swapping heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative. You can also add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. If you’re in the mood for a different protein, shrimp or tofu can be great substitutes!
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make Chicken Buttered Noodles dairy-free, substitute the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as olive oil and coconut cream.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the noodles when you’re ready to serve.
