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Ultimate Buttered Noodles & Chicken is a rich, comforting dish where tender chicken meets silky, buttery noodles. Perfectly seasoned and tossed in a luscious butter sauce, this meal delivers warmth and flavor in every bite. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty side, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
My love for this dish started as a childhood favorite, where buttered noodles were the ultimate comfort food. Over time, I perfected the balance of flavors and textures, adding juicy, golden-brown chicken for a more satisfying meal. Now, it's a go-to recipe whenever I need a quick, delicious dinner.
Master Your Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Opt for air-chilled, high-quality cuts for better texture and flavor.
- Egg noodles: Choose wide egg noodles for the best sauce absorption.
- Butter: European-style butter ensures a richer, creamier sauce.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground Tellicherry pepper adds depth.
- Parmesan cheese: Optional but enhances the umami and creaminess.
Bringing It All Together
- Preparing the Chicken:
- Trim any excess fat and pat the chicken dry. Season evenly with salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
- Cooking the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Resting the Chicken:
- Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cooking the Noodles:
- Boil egg noodles in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Making the Butter Sauce:
- Melt butter in the skillet over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Combining Everything:
- Add the noodles to the butter sauce, tossing well. Stir in pasta water as needed for a silky consistency.
- Final Touches:
- Top with sliced chicken, fresh parsley, and optional Parmesan cheese.
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The first time I made this dish, I realized how small tweaks—like using high-quality butter and properly resting the chicken—could make all the difference. Now, it's a foolproof recipe I turn to time and time again.
Recipe Variations
Swap the egg noodles for fettuccine or pappardelle for a different texture. Try using chicken thighs for extra flavor. For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
Perfect Pairings
Pair with garlic bread and a crisp side salad for a complete meal. A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the buttery richness beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or butter to restore the sauce's creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the butter sauce may separate.
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Every time I make this dish, I appreciate its simplicity and depth of flavor. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a quick meal after a long day, this recipe never disappoints.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of noodles work best for this recipe?
- Wide egg noodles are ideal because their shape and texture hold the buttery sauce well, but you can also use fettuccine or any other broad pasta if needed.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
- The chicken should be golden brown on both sides and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part - it should be completely white with no pink.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- While best served fresh, you can store leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or butter to keep the noodles from drying out.
- → What vegetables go well with this dish?
- Steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a simple side salad all pair perfectly. You can even add vegetables directly to the buttered noodles.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, boneless chicken thighs work great and often stay more juicy. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs might need an extra minute or two per side.