Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Chicken with buttered noodles is one of those meals that I turn to whenever I want something cozy and crowd pleasing. With tender chicken pieces nestled into silky noodles and a buttery garlic herb sauce this is the definition of weeknight comfort food on the table in less than half an hour.

The first time I made this I was amazed at how those simple flavors hit every comfort note. My family asks for this on busy weeknights because it never fails to satisfy.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast or thighs: cut into bite size pieces choose fresh chicken for tenderness and flavor
• Egg noodles: wide and sturdy to soak up the sauce or substitute with your favorite pasta
• Olive oil: use a good quality extra virgin for better flavor
• Unsalted butter: classic richness and control over saltiness divide it for stages of the cooking
• Garlic: minced fresh for a punchy aroma and deeper taste avoid pre chopped for best results
• Salt and black pepper: to bring out flavors taste and adjust as you go
• Dried Italian seasoning: or a mix of basil and parsley sprinkle for a herby warmth
• Grated Parmesan cheese: optional for a salty finish use fresh grated for melting and flavor
• Fresh parsley: brightens up the finish choose crisp leaves and chop just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Noodles:

Boil a large pot of water and season it generously with salt. Add the egg noodles and stir to prevent sticking. Cook until just al dente which means the noodles should be tender but have a slight firmness in the center. Drain them thoroughly and set them aside in the colander. This timing keeps them from going mushy later.

Cook the Chicken:

While the noodles cook heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season all over with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and let them cook undisturbed for three minutes to develop a golden crust. Stir and continue cooking another three to four minutes until they are opaque and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate so it stays juicy.

Make the Butter Sauce:

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken add two tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once it starts to foam stir in the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning. Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly so the garlic softens without burning about one to two minutes. You will smell the garlic and herbs blooming in the butter.

Combine and Serve:

Add the drained noodles and the remaining tablespoon of butter right into the skillet with the butter sauce. Toss them gently with tongs so they get glossy and coated. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss again to mix everything together. Taste and add more salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan if using and finish with plenty of chopped fresh parsley for color and flavor. Serve hot straight from the pan for maximum flavor.

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I absolutely love how the butter and garlic meld with the herbs in this dish. My daughter’s favorite part is swirling her noodles to get every last drop of buttery sauce and I have fond memories of us cooking together on chilly evenings.

Storage Tips

This dish holds up well in the fridge for up to three days. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra butter to bring back the original sauciness. Avoid microwaving for too long as it can dry out the chicken and noodles.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Any pasta shape will work but broad egg noodles soak up the sauce best. If you are out of Italian seasoning try thyme plus a pinch of dried oregano.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with steamed broccoli roasted asparagus or a crisp green salad for a more balanced meal. A simple garlic bread or crusty loaf alongside is perfect for mopping up extra sauce.

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Cultural Context

Buttered noodles are a classic comfort food in many American households and tossing them with chicken and herbs is a logical evolution. Egg noodles in particular are popular in Midwestern and Eastern European American cooking and dishes like this bridge nostalgia and weeknight practicality.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While egg noodles offer a classic touch, any short pasta like penne or fusilli will taste great.

→ How do I enhance the flavor of the butter sauce?

Saute minced garlic and Italian seasoning in butter before tossing with noodles for a richer flavor profile.

→ Is there a way to make it more nutritious?

Add steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients and color in the dish.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, simply cook the chicken and noodles in advance, then reheat with the butter sauce when ready to serve.

→ Is Parmesan cheese essential?

It's optional for added richness and flavor, but the dish is delicious even without it.