Chicken and Buttered Noodles Recipe

Get ready for your new weeknight favorite: Chicken and Buttered Noodles. This recipe is pure comfort in a bowl, bringing together juicy, golden chicken bites and silky, garlicky buttered noodles in just about half an hour. The flavors are savory and buttery, tangled up with a hint of garlic and finished with a snowy topping of Parmesan and fresh parsley. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but comes together so quickly, you’ll want it in your regular dinner rotation—especially on those evenings when time is short but cravings are high.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this recipe sing, and a few notes to help you get the most out of every ingredient:

• Chicken Breast: The star protein, cut into cubes for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
• Onion Powder: For a subtle touch of sweetness and depth.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer.
• Paprika: Adds warmth and color; smoked paprika also works for a deeper, earthier flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Helps the chicken sear beautifully, locking in juices.
• Small Pasta Shells: Perfect for holding the buttery sauce; feel free to use another short pasta like rotini or penne.
• Chicken Bouillon Powder: Intensifies the savory flavor in both the pasta water and sauce.
• Salted Butter: The backbone of the sauce—don’t skimp! If you only have unsalted, just add a bit more salt.
• Garlic: Minced for that unmistakable aroma and punch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offers nutty, salty richness; use freshly grated if possible.
• Parsley: For a flash of color and freshness; optional but lovely.
• Reserved Pasta Water: The secret to a glossy, luscious sauce that clings to every noodle.
• Salt & Pepper, to taste: Final seasoning to balance and finish the dish.

Variations

This recipe is truly a blank canvas—here are some ideas if you want to mix things up:

• Swap the Chicken: Try using rotisserie chicken, turkey breast, or even shrimp for a change of pace.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter as it melts.
• Veggie-Loaded: Toss in peas, broccoli florets, or sautéed spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Lemon Zest: For a lift of brightness, finish with fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of juice.
• Cheese Swap: Asiago or Pecorino works wonderfully if you want a bolder cheese flavor.

How to Make Chicken and Buttered Noodles

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity—just a few steps get you from pantry to plate in record time.

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, toss your chicken cubes with onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for even seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through so every side gets golden. The chicken is ready when wonderfully browned and juices run clear. Transfer to a plate and keep warm—tent with foil if you like.

Step 2: Boil the Noodles

Halfway fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring it to a boil. Stir in chicken bouillon powder (this is pure flavor magic) and the pasta shells. Cook until just al dente, following the package directions. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining!

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Using the same pot from the noodles (fewer dishes, right?), melt the butter over medium heat, stirring in more chicken bouillon powder for that savory backbone. Add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute, just until fragrant. Pour in half a cup of reserved pasta water and stir to combine.

Step 4: Toss Noodles and Assemble

Tip the drained noodles and Parmesan into the pot. Gently toss everything together, letting the cheese melt and the sauce coat every shell. If you want it saucier, add a splash more of your reserved pasta water.

Plate a generous serving of noodles, top with the warm chicken, and finish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve piping hot.

How to Serve

Chicken and Buttered Noodles is incredibly versatile. For a cozy weeknight, serve it on its own—it’s hearty enough to satisfy.

• Garnish: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and a shower of fresh parsley for brightness.
• Pairings: Add a crisp green salad (think arugula or romaine with lemony vinaigrette) and some garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Make it a Family-Style Feast: Serve in a big bowl at the table so everyone can help themselves.

This also pairs well with roasted vegetables, or a simple plate of sliced tomatoes dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftovers before storing in an airtight container. This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

For best results, freeze the chicken and noodles separately if possible. Place in freezer-safe containers and enjoy within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce while warming.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Chicken and Buttered Noodles brings so much flavor and comfort with so little effort—it’s destined to be your new dinnertime hero. With its crave-worthy combination of buttery pasta and juicy chicken, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Give this recipe a try, tweak it to fit your mood, and enjoy some truly delicious, fuss-free home cooking tonight.

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