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Whenever my family craves pure comfort I turn to my Chicken and Buttered Noodles recipe. The way tender pasta wraps itself in silky butter sauce alongside perfectly seasoned chicken creates something truly magical. This dish has saved countless busy weeknights in my kitchen and always brings smiles to my table.
The Magic in Simplicity
After years of making this dish I've learned that simple ingredients treated with care create the most amazing flavors. The butter sauce becomes something extraordinary while the seasoned chicken adds just the right heartiness. This recipe has become my most requested comfort food whether I'm cooking for my kids or hosting friends.
What You'll Need
- Chicken: I use boneless skinless breasts but thighs work beautifully for extra juiciness.
- Seasonings: My perfect blend of onion powder paprika salt and pepper brings the chicken to life.
- Pasta: Small shells are my favorite they catch every drop of that buttery sauce.
- Chicken Bouillon: This adds such depth to both the noodles and sauce.
- Butter Sauce: Good salted butter fresh garlic and real parmesan create pure magic.
- Parmesan Cheese: I always grate mine fresh it melts like a dream.
Let's Get Cooking
- Start With Perfect Pasta
- Cook your noodles in well seasoned water with a touch of bouillon. Save some of that precious pasta water before draining.
- Season Your Chicken
- Layer those seasonings on your chicken then cook until golden and juicy.
- Create That Sauce
- In the same pan melt your butter add garlic and create that luxurious sauce with some pasta water.
- Bring It Together
- Toss those hot noodles in your sauce until every piece glistens then shower with parmesan.
- Time to Serve
- Top your buttery noodles with that gorgeous chicken and watch everyone come running.
Mix Up Your Protein
Sometimes I swap in juicy shrimp or tender strips of beef for variety. My vegetarian friends love it with crispy tofu and even bacon makes an appearance on special occasions. That butter sauce works its magic with whatever protein you choose.
Keeping It Fresh
I store my leftover chicken and noodles separately they stay perfect for several days. When reheating I add a touch of butter or water to bring back that silky sauce and warm the chicken gently to keep it juicy.
The Secret's in the Water
That pasta water is liquid gold in my kitchen. Just a splash creates the smoothest sauce that hugs every noodle perfectly. It's amazing how such a simple trick makes such a difference in the final dish.
Complete Your Meal
We love this with simple roasted vegetables or a bright green salad on the side. Sometimes I'll make quick garlic bread to catch every drop of sauce. The combinations are endless but always delicious.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
- Yes, any small pasta shape works well. Try rotini, bowties, or medium shells. Just follow the package cooking time for al dente pasta.
- → Why save the pasta water?
- The starchy pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles. Add it gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- → Can I use chicken thighs?
- Boneless chicken thighs work great and stay even juicier than breasts. Cut them into similar-sized cubes and cook just until done.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to restore the creamy sauce.
- → What can I serve with this?
- Add a side of steamed broccoli or a green salad. The garlic butter sauce is great for dipping crusty bread too.