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When my family's in the mood for something cozy, I whip up my Chicken with Buttered Noodles. The way soft pasta soaks up that velvety butter sauce next to well-seasoned chicken pieces just works wonders. It's gotten me through so many hectic evenings and always brings happy faces around our dinner table.
Simple Food Done Right
I've found over time that basic ingredients handled properly make for the most incredible tastes. The butter transforms into something special while the chicken adds just enough substance. This has become the number one comfort dish people ask for when I'm cooking for my little ones or when friends come over.
Ingredients List
- Chicken: Boneless skinless thighs are super juicy, but breasts work great too.
- Seasonings: My go-to mix of paprika, onion powder, pepper and salt makes the chicken taste amazing.
- Pasta: I love using small shells because they trap all that yummy buttery sauce.
- Chicken Bouillon: It gives remarkable flavor to both the sauce and pasta.
- Butter Sauce: Fresh garlic, quality salted butter and genuine parmesan come together beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated melts so much better than pre-packaged stuff.
Cooking Steps
- Perfect Your Pasta
- Boil your noodles in water with a bit of bouillon for flavor. Don't forget to keep some cooking water before you drain them.
- Get Your Chicken Right
- Rub those seasonings onto your chicken and cook until it's golden outside and juicy inside.
- Whip Up The Sauce
- Use the same pan to melt butter, cook garlic and make that rich sauce with a splash of the pasta water.
- Mix Everything
- Toss those drained noodles in your sauce until they're all coated and gleaming, then sprinkle with parmesan.
- Ready To Eat
- Place that beautiful chicken on top of your buttery noodles and watch how quickly everyone gathers around.
Switch Your Meat Options
I often throw in plump shrimp or thin slices of beef for something different. My friends who don't eat meat really enjoy it with crispy tofu, and we sometimes treat ourselves with bacon too. The butter sauce works its charm with any protein you pick.
Storing Leftovers
I put away any extra chicken and noodles in different containers and they stay good for a few days. When it's time to warm them up, I add a bit of butter or some water to revive that silky sauce and heat the chicken slowly so it doesn't dry out.
Water Makes Magic
That cooking water from the pasta does wonders in my kitchen. Just a little bit creates the creamiest sauce that sticks to each noodle perfectly. It's funny how such a tiny trick can totally change how the final dish turns out.
Round Out Your Dinner
We typically pair this with some easy oven-roasted veggies or a crisp green salad. Sometimes I'll throw together some quick garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. There are tons of ways to serve it, but they're all tasty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap for other pasta shapes?
- Sure! Bowties, rotini, or even penne will work. Just check the package for cooking times.
- → Why add pasta water to the sauce?
- It's full of starch, which makes the sauce smooth and cling better to the noodles. Add little by little till it looks right.
- → Can I substitute chicken breasts with thighs?
- Absolutely! Boneless thighs are juicy and tasty. Slice them evenly and cook until just done.
- → How should I store leftovers?
- Use an airtight container and pop it in the fridge for up to three days. Add water when reheating to freshen the sauce.
- → What pairs well with this meal?
- A green salad or steamed broccoli makes a great side. You could also dip crusty bread into the sauce.