Chicken Buttered Noodles: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Chicken Buttered Noodles: Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy, buttery noodles studded with tender chicken? I think not! This simple yet satisfying dish is a hug in a bowl, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

While the exact origins of buttered noodles are somewhat debated, the concept of combining pasta with butter is deeply rooted in Italian culinary tradition. Over time, variations emerged, and the addition of chicken transformed this humble dish into a more substantial and complete meal. Think of it as a simplified, weeknight-friendly cousin to classic chicken Alfredo.

What makes Chicken Buttered Noodles so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The silky smooth noodles, the rich and savory butter sauce, and the tender, juicy chicken create a symphony of deliciousness in every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, and vegetables. But perhaps the biggest draw is its convenience. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings when you crave something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. So, let’s get cooking and create a bowl of pure comfort food!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• For the Noodles:
• 1 lb egg noodles
• 8 cups water
• 1 tablespoon salt
• For the Butter Sauce:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning sauce)

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. I like to use my hands to really massage the spices in, but a spoon works just fine too!
2. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll add it back in later. Don’t worry about cleaning the skillet just yet – all those flavorful bits left behind will add depth to our butter sauce!

Cooking the Noodles:

1. Now, let’s cook the egg noodles. In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. This helps to season the noodles as they cook.
2. Add the egg noodles to the boiling water. Cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente).
3. Before draining the noodles, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be used to thin out the butter sauce if needed, creating a creamier consistency.
4. Drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside.

Making the Butter Sauce:

1. Time to create the star of the show – the butter sauce! In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (no need to clean it!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the melted butter and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away!
6. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water at a time, stirring until you reach your desired consistency.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Now for the best part – putting it all together! Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the butter sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
2. Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the chicken and butter sauce. Gently toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
4. Serve immediately. You can garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired. I sometimes like to add a squeeze of lemon juice for a little extra zing!

Tips and Variations:

• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay more moist during cooking. Just make sure to trim any excess fat before cubing them.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables to this dish. Sautéed mushrooms, broccoli florets, or peas would be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet after cooking the chicken and before making the butter sauce.
• Spices: Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor. Italian seasoning, dried oregano, or basil would all work well.
• Cheese: You can use different types of cheese in the sauce. Asiago, Romano, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would be tasty alternatives to Parmesan.
• Cream Cheese: For an extra creamy sauce, add a tablespoon or two of cream cheese to the butter sauce.
• Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish and adds a touch of acidity.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free egg noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives can be added to the sauce for a more complex flavor.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce when reheating.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with garlic bread or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Buttered Noodles! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Bon appétit!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Chicken Buttered Noodles recipe is truly a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make. From the tender, juicy chicken to the perfectly coated noodles bathed in that rich, buttery sauce, every bite is an explosion of flavor that will leave you wanting more. I know I always do!

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that comes together quickly, but it’s also elegant enough to serve to guests. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation, creating a welcoming atmosphere that everyone will appreciate. Trust me, the smiles around the table will be your greatest reward.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different variations to make this dish your own. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. If you’re a cheese lover (and who isn’t?), sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Gruyere over the top before serving. For a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu. The possibilities are endless!

Serving suggestions? Oh, I have plenty! This Chicken Buttered Noodles pairs perfectly with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for dipping into that luscious sauce. You could also add a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, for a more complete and balanced meal. And for a truly decadent experience, try serving it with a glass of chilled white wine.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It’s also a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken, making it a budget-friendly option as well.

Why You Absolutely Need to Try This:

* Unbeatable Flavor: The combination of butter, chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles is simply irresistible.
* Easy to Make: Even beginner cooks can master this recipe with ease.
* Versatile: Adapt it to your liking with different variations and serving suggestions.
* Crowd-Pleasing: Guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.
* Comfort Food at Its Finest: Perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m confident that this Chicken Buttered Noodles recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating something truly delicious. Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your variations, serving suggestions, and any tips you might have. Let’s create a community of noodle lovers and share our culinary adventures together! Happy cooking!