Garlic Butter Chicken Noodles: Easy Recipe & Cooking Tips

Garlic Butter Chicken Noodles: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple dish that will become a weeknight staple! Imagine tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, all nestled amongst perfectly cooked noodles. It’s a symphony of savory goodness that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

While the exact origins of garlic butter chicken noodles are a bit murky, its popularity likely stems from the fusion food movement, blending classic Italian flavors with Asian noodle dishes. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal that appeals to a wide range of palates. Think of it as a delicious culinary mashup!

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The creamy, buttery sauce coats every strand of noodle, while the garlic adds a pungent kick that awakens the senses. The chicken provides a hearty protein boost, making it a complete and fulfilling meal. Plus, let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of garlic butter? It’s a universally loved flavor combination that elevates any dish to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its ease of preparation and incredible flavor. Get ready to experience the magic of garlic butter chicken noodles!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
• 8 tbsp (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Noodles:
• 1 lb egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
• Water for boiling
• Salt for boiling water
• Optional Garnishes:
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. In a medium bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. I like to use my hands to really massage the flavors in!
2. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
3. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. We’ll add it back to the sauce later.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:

1. Now for the star of the show – the garlic butter sauce! In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (no need to clean it!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter. Keep stirring it constantly. The aroma should be amazing!
3. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
6. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the garlic butter sauce. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cooking the Noodles:

1. While the sauce is simmering, cook the noodles according to the package directions. I usually use egg noodles for this recipe, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is important – it seasons the noodles as they cook.
3. Add the noodles to the boiling water and cook until al dente, which means they should be firm to the bite. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but check the package instructions for specific cooking times.
4. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them well. Don’t rinse them unless you’re using a pasta that tends to stick together.

Assembling and Serving:

1. Add the drained noodles to the skillet with the chicken and garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce. Make sure every strand is glistening with that delicious garlic butter!
2. Serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and red pepper flakes, if desired. I love a generous sprinkle of Parmesan!
3. This dish is best served hot. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add some vegetables to the dish. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli would be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet after cooking the chicken and before making the sauce.
• Use different protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute shrimp, sausage, or even tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make it creamy: For an even creamier sauce, add an extra splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
• Garlic Lovers Rejoice: If you’re a true garlic enthusiast, don’t be shy about adding even more minced garlic to the sauce. The more, the merrier!
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest brightens up the flavor profile. Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for a zesty twist.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of intense flavor. They pair wonderfully with the garlic and Parmesan.
• Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary. They add a wonderful aroma and flavor to the dish.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would pair perfectly with this dish.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Make Ahead Instructions:

You can prepare certain components of this dish ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights.

• Chicken: The chicken can be seasoned and cooked up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Garlic Butter Sauce: The garlic butter sauce can also be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Noodles! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Conclusion:

This Garlic Butter Chicken Noodles recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The creamy, garlicky sauce coats every strand of noodle and tender piece of chicken, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, even with the pickiest eaters. Seriously, what’s not to love? I know you might be thinking, “Another chicken noodle recipe? What’s so special?” But trust me on this one. The combination of the browned butter, the generous amount of garlic (because, let’s be honest, you can never have too much!), and the perfectly cooked chicken elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and indulgent, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick and satisfying family dinner. But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own preferences.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick. * Veggie Power! Toss in some sautéed spinach, broccoli florets, or sliced mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor. * Cheese, Please! Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of ricotta cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of richness. * Herby Goodness! Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or basil for a pop of color and freshness. * Noodle Swap! While I love it with egg noodles, feel free to experiment with other types of pasta, like fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. * Chicken Alternatives! If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. * Lemon Zest! A little lemon zest brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing citrus note. I truly believe that this Garlic Butter Chicken Noodles recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, and it’s so easy to customize to your liking. It’s a dish that I find myself making again and again, and I’m confident that you’ll feel the same way. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. And once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear what you think! Share your photos and feedback in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried and how you made it your own. I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what culinary masterpieces you create with this recipe. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this Garlic Butter Chicken Noodles as much as I do! Print