Introduction
As the sun sets and a golden glow fills the kitchen, the comforting aroma of Chicken with Buttered Noodles wafts through the air, bringing warmth and nostalgia to every corner. This is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart; it’s the kind of dish I remember my grandmother preparing on chilly evenings, her laughter mixing with the sizzling sound of chicken in the pan. The steam from the buttery noodles mingling with the savory scent of seasoned chicken is enough to wrap you in a cozy embrace and beckon loved ones to the table. Delve into this delightful homemade recipe, and let me share a comforting dinner that promises to satisfy even the fussiest of eaters.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this is the perfect meal for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that appeals to both adults and kids, fostering family bonds over delicious food.
- Festive & Special: Perfect for gatherings or holidays, it brings a touch of warmth to any occasion.
- Indulgent Treat: Rich flavors and textures make every bite feel like a little celebration.
- Healthy Option: Customize it with veggies or lean chicken for a lighter twist.
Ingredients with Notes
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The heart of this dish. You can also use thighs for extra juiciness.
- 8 oz wide egg noodles: A comforting base that helps soak up all the flavors. Substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free noodles if preferred.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: For richness; it truly elevates this dish. Feel free to replace half with olive oil for a lighter touch.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Adds depth; elevates the flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Use homemade if you have it, but store-bought works perfectly in a pinch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing flavors. Adjust as needed.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: A pop of color and freshness; use basil for an aromatic twist instead.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
With such a quick preparation, you’ll have time to set the table, light a candle, and create the kind of ambiance that makes a meal feel special.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Boil the Noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, but keep a little pasta water aside for later.
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Sauté the Chicken: Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbly, add the chicken breasts. Sauté for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. (You’ll notice that irresistible sound as they sear beautifully.)
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Add the Garlic: When the chicken is nearly cooked through, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Your kitchen will start smelling incredible at this point!
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Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer. As it bubbles, scrape the bottom of the skillet to release those delicious brown bits. Allow to reduce slightly for about 4-5 minutes.
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Combine Everything: Add the drained noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together, infusing the noodles with the luscious sauce. Stir in the remaining butter for added richness. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
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Finishing Touches: Just before serving, to brighten the dish, stir in fresh parsley. Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary.
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Swaps: Swap in zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta for a healthier spin.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in some steamed broccoli or peas for added nutrition and color.
- Flavor Upgrades: A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can elevate the flavors even more.
Serving Ideas
Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles with a simple side salad of mixed greens, drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, or pair it with crusty garlic bread to mop up every last drop of that creamy sauce. For a cozy family dinner, pour a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon. This dish is equally perfect for a relaxed Monday night or those festive gatherings that call for something that feels like home.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the sauce. It’s equally delightful the next day; perhaps even more so, as the flavors meld together.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Rest the Meat: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Add herbs at the end to maintain their vibrant flavor and color.
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Let it cook just until fragrant to avoid bitterness and ensure a sweet depth of flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use skin-on chicken? Yes, but the cook time will increase slightly. Just ensure it’s cooked through.
- Is this dish suitable for freezing? Yes, but it’s best to freeze just the chicken and sauce, as the noodles can become mushy.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the chicken for mushrooms or a meat alternative, and use vegetable broth.
Conclusion
As you prepare this Chicken with Buttered Noodles, let the love and nostalgia from the kitchen wrap around you like a warm blanket. Invite your family around the table, share stories, and savor each bite together. Whether you’re creating new memories or re-living cherished ones, this dish is more than a meal; it’s a heartfelt invitation to gather, share, and find joy in love’s simplest form. Try it out, and let the comfort of this delicious recipe bring happiness to your home and break the barriers of everyday life. Bon appétit!
Contents
Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can also use thighs for extra juiciness.
- 8 oz wide egg noodles Substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free noodles if preferred.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter Feel free to replace half with olive oil for a lighter touch.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced Adds depth and elevates flavors.
- 1 cup chicken broth Use homemade if possible, but store-bought works perfectly.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential for enhancing flavors.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped Use basil for an aromatic twist instead.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Boil the Noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, keeping a little pasta water aside for later.
- Sauté the Chicken: Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chicken breasts. Sauté for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the Garlic: When the chicken is nearly cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release brown bits and allow to reduce slightly for about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Add the drained noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together, infusing the noodles with the sauce. Stir in the remaining butter. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Finishing Touches: Just before serving, stir in fresh parsley and adjust seasoning.