Introduction to Chicken and Buttered Noodles
If you’re looking for a delicious yet simple meal, Chicken and Buttered Noodles is your answer. This dish is not only fast to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes, but it's also packed with flavors that will satisfy your taste buds after a long day at work. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines tender, seasoned chicken with buttery noodles that melt in your mouth.
Why Chicken and Buttered Noodles are a Great Choice for Young Professionals
For young professionals juggling a hectic schedule, convenience is key. The beauty of this Chicken and Buttered Noodles recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or your favorite herbs to boost flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it easy on your wallet while delivering a home-cooked feel.
What’s more, cooking this dish is a fantastic way to unwind after a long day. It offers both comfort and a sense of accomplishment as you whip up a satisfying meal in just half an hour. With the savory combination of chicken and a rich garlic butter sauce, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner from the comfort of your own kitchen. Don’t forget to check out this cooking guide for more tips on enhancing your culinary skills!
Ingredients for Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Cooking up a delightful plate of Chicken and Buttered Noodles is a straightforward delight. Let’s break down what you’ll need to create this comforting dish!
Essential ingredients for the chicken
For the chicken, you'll want:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into cubes for even cooking.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: This adds a subtle depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A little spice goes a long way!
- 1 teaspoon paprika: This gives the chicken a pop of color and a hint of smokiness.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken to perfection.
Essential ingredients for the pasta
For the pasta component, gather:
- 8 ounces small pasta shells: These are great for holding the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Helps season the pasta as it cooks.
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder: Boosts the savory flavor of your noodles.
Essential ingredients for the garlic butter sauce
Finally, for that luscious garlic butter sauce, you’ll need:
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) salted butter: The heart of your Chicken and Buttered Noodles.
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder: Adds extra umami to the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Fresh is best for this recipe!
- ¼ cup (25 g) parmesan cheese: A fantastic touch for creaminess and flavor.
- Parsley: For a fresh garnish that brightens the dish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, bringing all the flavors together.
With these ingredients in your kitchen, you're ready to prepare a wonderful meal that anyone would love! For more cooking tips and inspiration, feel free to check out resources like America’s Test Kitchen or Serious Eats!
Step-by-step Preparation of Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Cooking chicken and buttery noodles is not just about following a recipe; it's like creating your own warm hug in a bowl. Let’s dive into the delightful process, ensuring you snag that tender, flavorful chicken paired with rich, creamy noodles that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Season and Cook the Chicken
Start with your cubed chicken, which is the star of this dish. In a medium bowl, mix together the onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika to create a simple yet flavorful seasoning mix. Toss the chicken cubes in this mixture, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
Next, heat about a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your seasoned chicken and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. You want a gorgeous golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and tent it with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the noodles.
Boil the Pasta
Boiling your pasta might seem straightforward, but the technique can seriously elevate your dish. Fill a large pot halfway with water and add a teaspoon of kosher salt, then bring it to a rolling boil. When the water is bubbling away, toss in a tablespoon of chicken bouillon powder and 8 ounces of small pasta shells. Cook the pasta until you hit that perfect al dente texture, as outlined on the package.
Before draining, reserve about a cup of the starchy pasta water. This magical potion will be your secret weapon for the perfect buttery sauce later on!
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same pot you used for the noodles, melt ½ cup of salted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melting and bubbly, stir in another two teaspoons of that chicken bouillon powder to amplify the flavor. Add two teaspoons of minced garlic and cook for just one more minute—this fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!
Once the garlic has softened, pour in ½ cup of your reserved pasta water. Give everything a good stir until combined, and you're well on your way to creating a dish that sings comfort food!
Combine Noodles and Sauce
Next, it's time to marry your creamy butter sauce and your pasta. Add the drained noodles to the pot and sprinkle in ¼ cup of parmesan cheese. Toss everything gently to ensure that the noodles are beautifully coated in that garlicky butter. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve the desired consistency. Trust me; buttered noodles deserve that velvety finish!
Plate and Serve
Finally, it’s time to plate your masterpiece. Start by serving a generous spoonful of those buttery noodles onto your plates, topping them with your perfectly cooked chicken. If you like, sprinkle some additional parmesan and a dash of chopped fresh parsley for that vibrant pop of color and flavor.
Present this dish hot, and prepare for smiles all around! For even more helpful tips on meal prepping and cooking techniques, check out resources like The Kitchn or America's Test Kitchen. Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Buttered Noodles!
Variations on Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Chicken and Buttered Noodles with Veggies
For a nutritious twist, try adding a colorful medley of veggies to your Chicken and Buttered Noodles. Chop some bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli and sauté them with the chicken for a bright, flavorful dish. Not only do they add a burst of color, but they also boost nutritional value. Consider tossing in some frozen peas near the end of cooking for added sweetness and texture. Extra fiber only enhances this comforting recipe—making it a family-friendly favorite!
Spicy Chicken and Buttered Noodles
If you enjoy a bit of heat, spice up your Chicken and Buttered Noodles with some chili flakes or sriracha. Incorporating these ingredients will elevate the flavors and create a delicious kick. Pair it with a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty finish that complements the richness of the butter. Add a few chopped green onions for a vibrant garnish and extra crunch—your taste buds will certainly thank you for this fiery take on a classic dish!
Looking for inspiration? Visit Healthline for more tips on nutrition and balanced meals!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Best practices for cooking chicken
To achieve perfectly cooked chicken for your Chicken and Buttered Noodles, ensure your chicken is pat-dried—a step that helps develop a beautiful golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Patience is key; don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause steaming rather than browning.
Tips for perfect buttered noodles
For silky, flavorful buttered noodles, choose small pasta shells that capture the garlic butter sauce beautifully. Remember to reserve some pasta water—it’s a magic ingredient that helps create a luscious consistency. For a pop of flavor, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a bit more cheese or herbs. Cooking noodles al dente ensures they have that perfect bite!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Pairing with a Refreshing Salad
Elevate your Chicken and Buttered Noodles experience by serving it with a light, refreshing salad. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, buttery noodles. Try adding sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a burst of flavor and color. You can find some great vinaigrette recipes here.
Creative Ways to Present Your Dish
Make your Chicken and Buttered Noodles visually appealing by using different types of bowls or plates to serve. Consider layering the dish: place a generous amount of noodles at the bottom and top with the golden, sautéed chicken. Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, can add a pop of color and freshness. Dusting the top with extra parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil can make it restaurant-worthy. Presentation not only enhances the dining experience but also adds an artistic touch to your meal.
Time Breakdown for Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Preparation Time
The prep time for your Chicken and Buttered Noodles is just 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, seasoning the chicken, and getting the water boiling for the pasta. Quick and efficient!
Cooking Time
You'll spend 10 minutes cooking the chicken and pasta concurrently. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious meal.
Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish! It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you have friends over and want to impress.
For more tips on cooking chicken perfectly, check out this guide on cooking chicken to ensure juicy, flavorful results!
Nutritional Facts for Chicken and Buttered Noodles
When enjoying Chicken and Buttered Noodles, you might wonder about their nutritional value. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Calories
A serving of Chicken and Buttered Noodles contains approximately 578 calories, making it a satisfactory main course for dinner without going overboard.
Protein
This dish boasts about 42 grams of protein, primarily from the chicken, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Sodium
With approximately 800 mg of sodium per serving, it's wise to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you're monitoring your sodium intake.
For more insights on nutrition and healthy eating, check out resources from Healthline or the Mayo Clinic.
FAQs about Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While small pasta shells are perfect for Chicken and Buttered Noodles, you can easily substitute them with other varieties like penne, rotini, or even fettuccine. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as some noodles may cook faster than others. Feel free to get creative; whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great alternatives if you prefer a healthier option!
How can I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is a breeze with this dish. Simply let your Chicken and Buttered Noodles cool to room temperature and then transfer them to an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, just warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to bring back the creaminess.
What other proteins work well with this dish?
If you’re looking to switch things up, several proteins pair nicely with Chicken and Buttered Noodles. Consider turkey bacon, chicken ham, or even sautéed shrimp. Each option brings a unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize this dish to your taste preferences.
Feel free to explore and find your favorite combination!
Conclusion on Chicken and Buttered Noodles
In just 30 minutes, Chicken and Buttered Noodles transforms into a comfort food classic that’s sure to impress your family or guests. With juicy chicken, cozy noodles, and buttery goodness, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner. Try it tonight for a delicious, feel-good meal that’s hard to resist!
Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Equipment
- medium skillet
- large pot
- medium bowl
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts pat dry with a paper towel, cubed
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Pasta
- 8 ounces small pasta shells
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 0.5 cup salted butter (1 stick / 113 g)
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic minced
- 0.25 cup parmesan cheese plus more for garnish (optional)
- parsley for garnish
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
Instructions
Chicken
- In a medium bowl, mix together the onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss the chicken cubes in the seasoning mix, coating all sides.
- To a medium skillet over medium heat, add oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken cubes into the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the pan and tent to keep warm.
Noodles
- Fill a large pot halfway with water. Add salt and bring to a boil. Add bouillon powder and small pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set noodles aside while you prepare the garlic butter sauce.
Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same pot you used to make the noodles, melt the butter and chicken bouillon powder. Stir to mix together. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Add ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and stir to combine.
- Add noodles and parmesan to the pot, tossing to combine. Add more pasta water, a little at a time, if needed, until the buttered noodles reach your desired consistency.
- Plate the noodles and serve topped with chicken.
- Top with parsley and additional parmesan cheese. Serve warm.
Leave a Reply