If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that hits all the right notes, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Buttered Noodles is about to become your new go-to. Tender bites of chicken cooked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with a cozy bed of buttery noodles this dish is simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into how to make this mouthwatering recipe while keeping it friendly for both novice and experienced home cooks. I’ll also share some expert tips and tricks to help you nail the perfect meal every time, and cover common questions you might have. Let’s make sure you leave here not only with a delicious dinner idea but also with a piece that’s SEO-optimized to catch the attention of your hungry readers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Butter Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a tried-and-true favorite because:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike expect no leftovers!
- Versatile: Simple enough to modify to your taste, whether you want it creamy, spicy, or loaded with veggies.
- Comfort in a Bowl: Butter, garlic, and noodles need we say more?
Key Ingredients and Preparation Tips
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Garlic Butter Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Buttered Noodles:
- 12 oz egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparation Tips
- Chicken Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender, but thighs can add a richer flavor. Either option works great just make sure they’re cut into even, bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking.
- Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this dish. It’s the star of the show and gives the sauce a robust, savory depth that you won’t get from jarred garlic.
- Butter Quality: High-quality unsalted butter makes a noticeable difference. It creates a rich base for the garlic sauce, letting you control the salt content to suit your taste.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Directions:
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. As it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic!). Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any brown bits this is where the flavor lives! Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Combine Chicken with Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter sauce until well-coated. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Cook the Noodles: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
- Buttered Noodles: Add the butter to the hot noodles and toss until the butter is fully melted and the noodles are evenly coated. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve: Spoon the garlic butter chicken over the buttered noodles, garnish with extra parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Tricks for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks boneless pieces can dry out quickly. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Timing is Everything: Cook the noodles while the chicken is searing to save time. You want the noodles ready just as the chicken and sauce are finished.
- Fresh Herbs for the Win: Fresh parsley adds a bright note to the dish, but don’t be afraid to swap it for fresh basil, thyme, or chives based on what you have in your kitchen.
- Create a Creamy Sauce: For a creamier garlic butter sauce, add a splash of heavy cream during the simmering stage. It’s a small tweak that makes a big difference.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to adjust it to suit your tastes:
Add More Veggies:
- Broccoli or Spinach: Toss in some steamed broccoli or fresh spinach at the end to add nutrients and color.
- Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy twist.
- Bell Peppers: For a pop of color and sweetness, sauté thinly sliced bell peppers with the chicken.
Make It Spicy:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a bit of heat.
- Cayenne Pepper in the chicken seasoning adds a kick to every bite.
Different Protein Options:
- Shrimp: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, cooking them in the same garlic butter sauce until pink and tender.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu cubes seasoned similarly to the chicken, and follow the same cooking steps.
Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken:
- Sprinkle the dish with mozzarella or fontina cheese, and broil for a couple of minutes until bubbly for a cheesy twist.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients that make it a well-rounded meal:
- Chicken provides a lean source of protein, crucial for muscle maintenance and energy.
- Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties, helping boost the immune system.
- Egg Noodles give you a hearty base, and choosing whole wheat or high-protein pasta options can add extra fiber and nutrients.
- Butter adds healthy fats when used in moderation, aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A and D.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
Garlic Butter Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting dish that pairs well with light and fresh sides. Here are some ideas:
- Caesar Salad: The crispness of a Caesar salad with a light, tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
- Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil complements the savory chicken.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A bowl of fresh fruit, like berries and sliced apples, offers a refreshing contrast to the dish.
- Garlic Bread: For the true garlic lover, serve with a side of warm, crusty garlic bread for extra indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are a great choice, feel free to use any pasta you love fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti would work. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming too soft when tossed with the sauce.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch to the chicken broth before adding it to the pan. This will help the sauce to thicken as it simmers.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, use a skillet over medium heat or the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating. If the noodles have soaked up too much sauce, you can add a little more butter or chicken broth while reheating to bring back some of the moisture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and prepare the noodles, but keep them separate until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to eat, quickly reheat the chicken in a skillet and toss the noodles with fresh butter.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken?
The chicken can be frozen, but it’s best to make fresh noodles when serving. Freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, you can swap it with Romano, Asiago, or a milder cheese like mozzarella. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Garlic can burn quickly, especially in hot butter. To avoid this, cook the garlic over medium heat, and keep a close eye on it it only needs about 30 seconds to release its aroma. You can also lower the heat to medium-low while sautéing to ensure it cooks evenly without burning.
Cooking Notes and Tips
Chef’s Notes: For the ultimate Garlic Butter Chicken, don’t skimp on the garlic! The secret to getting the best flavor is to let the garlic infuse into the butter slowly, which creates a rich and aromatic sauce that’s hard to resist. Also, when seasoning the chicken, don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. A well-seasoned chicken will make all the difference.
Pro Tips:
- Butter Temperature: When adding butter to the pan, make sure it’s not too hot. Melt it over medium heat to prevent browning and to keep the sauce silky smooth.
- Noodle Prep: To save time, you can cook the noodles while the chicken is sizzling in the skillet. Just make sure you time it right so that everything comes together seamlessly.
- Use a Heavy Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron, will provide even heat distribution and help the chicken get that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftovers in the fridge in a sealed container.
- To reheat, gently warm in a pan over low heat or microwave for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- If freezing, ensure the dish cools completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple yet decadent dish that brings comfort and flavor to the dinner table with minimal effort. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and more leisurely weekends when you want a satisfying, home-cooked meal. The combination of tender chicken bites in a garlic-infused butter sauce, paired with the velvety richness of buttered noodles, is simply irresistible.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is a foolproof way to impress anyone at the table. Its versatility means you can tweak it to fit your taste preferences, and it’s easy enough to double the recipe for a crowd. I promise you’ll get rave reviews every time!