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When my family is desperate for some honest-to-goodness comfort food, I whip up my Buttered Noodles with Chicken. The way the soft pasta mingles with the velvety butter coating alongside well-flavored chicken creates something downright wonderful. This meal has rescued so many hectic evenings at my house and never fails to bring happy faces around my dinner table.
Simple Ingredients, Extraordinary Results
Through lots of trial and error, I've discovered that basic items handled properly deliver the most incredible tastes. The simple butter mixture transforms into something special while the flavorful chicken provides just enough substance. This dish has turned into the comfort food everyone asks for, no matter if I'm feeding my little ones or having pals over for dinner.
Your Ingredient List
- Pasta: Small shells are my go-to since they scoop up every bit of that buttery goodness.
- Chicken: I typically grab boneless skinless breasts though thighs will give you a juicier outcome.
- Butter Sauce: Quality salted butter, fresh garlic and authentic parmesan work together for sheer deliciousness.
- Seasonings: My winning combo of paprika, onion powder, pepper and salt really wakes up the chicken.
- Chicken Bouillon: This secret ingredient enriches both the pasta and the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: I always shred mine right before using, it melts so much better.
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare Those Noodles
- Boil your pasta in flavorful water with a bit of bouillon. Don't forget to keep some cooking water before you drain.
- Get Your Sauce Going
- In your same cooking pan, melt the butter, throw in garlic and build that dreamy sauce using some reserved pasta water.
- Add Flavor To Chicken
- Coat your chicken pieces with your spice mixture then cook until they're golden outside and juicy inside.
- Time to Serve
- Place your glossy noodles on plates and crown them with your beautiful chicken pieces.
- Combine Everything
- Mix those steaming noodles into your sauce until they're all shiny, then sprinkle generously with parmesan.
Switch Your Protein Options
I often substitute plump shrimp or thin slices of beef for something different. My friends who don't eat meat really enjoy it with crunchy tofu, and we'll throw in some bacon for special days. That amazing butter mixture works its charm with any protein you prefer.
Smart Storage Tips
I always keep my leftover noodles and chicken in different containers, they both stay good for a few days that way. When I'm warming things up, I'll add a small knob of butter or splash of water to revive that silky sauce and heat the chicken slowly so it stays moist.
Water Makes All The Difference
The water from cooking pasta is absolutely priceless in my cooking. Just a tiny amount creates the creamiest sauce that wraps around each noodle perfectly. It's surprising how such a basic technique makes such a huge impact on your finished meal.
Round Out Your Dinner
We typically pair this with basic oven-roasted veggies or a crisp garden salad. Sometimes I'll throw together some quick buttery garlic toast to soak up any extra sauce. You can try all sorts of side combinations but they're always tasty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap for other pasta shapes?
- Sure, use any small pasta like bowties, medium shells, or rotini. Cook based on the package directions for al dente.
- → What’s pasta water for?
- It creates a light, creamy sauce that sticks to the noodles. Add it bit by bit for the right texture.
- → Will chicken thighs work?
- They’re an excellent choice! Thighs are juicy and flavorful. Slice them into cubes like you would with breasts.
- → How should I keep leftovers?
- Put them in a sealed container in the fridge. Eat within 3 days and rewarm gently with a splash of water.
- → What pairs well as a side?
- Serve with crisp broccoli or a fresh green salad. Crusty bread works perfectly for soaking up the garlic butter.