Chicken and Buttered Noodles

Chicken and Buttered Noodles is pure cozy comfort that takes regular buttered noodles and transforms them into a full satisfying meal. Tender bites of seasoned chicken join melt-in-your-mouth pasta in a velvety garlic butter sauce with a shower of parmesan. On days when I crave something simple with big flavor this recipe always delivers and disappears fast from the dinner table.

The first time I made this I was running late with hungry kids circling the kitchen and only pasta and chicken in the fridge. After their plates were wiped clean I knew it was a winner worth putting on repeat.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Use the freshest you can find and pat them dry so they brown up nicely in the pan
• Onion powder: Infuses mellow savory flavor in every bite
• Kosher salt: Season generously for best taste
• Black pepper: Freshly cracked gives a little spice and fragrance
• Paprika: Adds lovely color and warmth I always reach for smoked but sweet paprika also works
• Extra virgin olive oil: Choose good quality for browning the chicken and subtle richness
• Small pasta shells: They catch the sauce perfectly but rotini or egg noodles also work
• Chicken bouillon powder: Big savory boost for both pasta and sauce go for a brand you love
• Salt: Essential for seasoning pasta water and balancing the butter
• Salted butter: The main player in the sauce use real butter not margarine for best flavor
• Garlic minced: Freshly minced gives bold aroma and sharpness
• Parmesan cheese: Adds cheesy tanginess in the sauce plus extra for serving
• Parsley: Fresh and bright for finishing use flat-leaf if you can find it
• Salt and pepper: Taste one last time before serving and adjust as needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Season the Chicken:

Cube the chicken breasts into even pieces then toss them thoroughly with onion powder kosher salt black pepper and paprika Make sure every piece is evenly coated before cooking so each bite is well seasoned

Cook the Chicken:

Heat a medium skillet to medium and add the olive oil Let it get hot so the chicken sears instantly Add the seasoned chicken cubes in a single layer Cook for eight to ten minutes flipping pieces halfway through until the chicken is golden and cooked through Remove from the pan and keep covered so it stays juicy

Cook the Pasta:

Fill a large pot halfway with water and bring it to a rolling boil Stir in salt and chicken bouillon powder then add the pasta shells Cook until just al dente Check the package for exact timing so they stay firm to the bite not mushy Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

In the same pot you cooked the pasta melt the butter together with chicken bouillon powder for a savory base Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute just enough to release the aroma but not brown

Combine Everything:

Pour in half a cup of the reserved pasta water and give it a good stir to create a silky sauce Add back the drained noodles and parmesan cheese Toss gently until the noodles are coated and glossy Use more pasta water if you want a looser sauce

Serve and Finish:

Divide the buttery noodles among plates Top each with juicy cooked chicken Shower with more parmesan and sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness Serve warm for best taste

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Parmesan cheese is my personal must have here Its salty nutty flavor makes everything pop and watching my daughter sneak extra sprinkles at the table always makes me smile This dish often brings everyone together for a slow easy meal even on busy nights

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they stay fresh for up to three days For reheating add a splash of water and gently warm on the stove to wake the sauce back up The chicken stays moist if you do not overcook it

Ingredient Substitutions

No chicken breasts Try diced thigh meat or even rotisserie chicken Add veggies like broccoli or peas for color and nutrients If you are out of parmesan try asiago or romano cheese

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or sautéed green beans Garlic bread or warm rolls are a favorite side in our house since they help scoop up every bit of that buttery sauce

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A Little History

Buttered noodles are a classic comfort across generations and cultures Elevating them with savory chicken and cheese turns this humble side into a main meal perfect for cozy family dinners My grandmother used to make this for Sunday lunches and the aroma always meant home

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the chicken juicy and not dry?

Be sure to not overcook the chicken. Sauté the seasoned cubes just until they reach 165°F and let them rest under a loose foil tent to keep them moist.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Small pasta shells are used for their ability to hold the creamy garlic butter sauce, but rotini or penne can be substituted if preferred.

→ Can I add vegetables for extra flavor?

Yes, stir in sautéed spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli along with the noodles for additional color and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

→ Is the dish very rich?

The buttery sauce is balanced by the brightness of garlic, parmesan, and fresh parsley, but you can lighten it by using less butter if desired.