Pin it
When my family needs comfort food, I go straight to my Chicken with Buttered Noodles. The way soft pasta soaks up the buttery goodness alongside well-seasoned chicken bits creates something downright wonderful. This meal has gotten me through so many hectic evenings and always gets everyone at my table smiling.
Simple Food, Amazing Results
I've figured out over time that basic ingredients treated right make the tastiest meals. The butter turns into something special while the chicken adds just enough substance. Everyone asks for this dish now - it's the go-to comfort food whether I'm feeding my children or having pals over.
Your Shopping List
- Chicken: Boneless skinless thighs are super juicy, but breasts work great too.
- Seasonings: My favorite mix of salt, pepper, paprika and onion powder makes the chicken taste fantastic.
- Pasta: I love using small shells because they grab every bit of that butter sauce.
- Chicken Bouillon: This gives everything a richer taste, both the pasta and the sauce.
- Butter Sauce: Real salted butter, fresh garlic and authentic parmesan work together beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Always grate it yourself for that perfect melt.
Let's Start Cooking
- Perfect Your Pasta
- Boil your noodles in water with a bit of bouillon for flavor. Don't forget to keep some of that cooking water before you drain.
- Get Your Chicken Ready
- Put all those seasonings on your chicken and cook until it's golden and tender.
- Make Your Butter Sauce
- Using the same pan, melt butter, throw in garlic and mix with some pasta water for a smooth sauce.
- Put It All Together
- Mix those hot noodles into your sauce until they're all coated, then sprinkle plenty of parmesan on top.
- Ready To Eat
- Place that tasty chicken over your buttery noodles and watch everyone come for seconds.
Try Different Meats
I often use juicy shrimp or thin slices of beef for a change. My friends who don't eat meat love it with crispy tofu, and sometimes I add bacon as a special treat. That amazing butter sauce works with any protein you pick.
Storing Leftovers
I always keep my leftover chicken and noodles in different containers and they stay good for a few days. When warming it up, I add a little butter or water to make the sauce creamy again and heat the chicken slowly so it stays moist.
Water Makes Magic
The water from cooking pasta is a game-changer in my kitchen. Just a little bit makes the smoothest sauce that sticks to every noodle. It's crazy how such a basic trick can totally transform your dish.
Finish Your Dinner
We usually have this with some oven-roasted veggies or a fresh green salad. Sometimes I'll throw together some quick garlic bread to soak up all that sauce. You can pair it with so many things and it's always tasty.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap for different pasta types?
- Absolutely, most small pasta works nicely. Go for bowties, rotini, or medium shells. Just cook them according to package times until they're al dente.
- → What's the point of keeping pasta water?
- That starchy water makes your sauce smooth and helps it stick to your noodles. Just add a bit at a time until you get the right thickness.
- → Will chicken thighs work too?
- Boneless thighs are fantastic and turn out juicier than breast meat. Cut them into similar chunks and cook until they're just done.
- → How do I keep leftovers fresh?
- Pop them in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a tiny splash of water to bring back the creaminess.
- → What goes well on the side?
- Try some steamed broccoli or a simple green salad. The garlicky butter sauce is also perfect for dipping some crusty bread.