EASY CHICKEN BUTTERY NOODLE SKILLET

Imagine a skillet bursting with tender chicken, bathed in a luscious buttery sauce, all tangled up with perfectly cooked noodles – that’s our Chicken Buttery Noodle Skillet, ready to become your weeknight hero, and I promise you, it’s easier to make than it sounds!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Noodles:

• 1 pound egg noodles
• 6 cups chicken broth

For the Buttery Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get Started: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.

Cook the Chicken:

2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Don’t worry if the skillet has browned bits – that’s flavor!

Cook the Noodles:

3. Add the chicken broth to the same skillet. Bring to a boil, then add the egg noodles.
4. Reduce heat to medium and cook the noodles according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until tender. The broth will reduce as the noodles cook.
5. Drain any excess broth from the noodles, leaving just a little bit to keep them moist.

Make the Buttery Sauce:

4. In the same skillet (wipe it out if necessary), melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
6. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
7. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
8. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve:

5. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the noodles and buttery sauce. Toss gently to combine everything and ensure the chicken and noodles are well coated in the sauce.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful Chicken Buttery Noodle Skillet!

Why This Chicken Buttery Noodle Skillet is a Winner

This isn’t just any noodle dish; it’s a complete meal packed with flavor and comfort. One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your liking by adding different vegetables or spices. Want a little kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Need more veggies? Toss in some frozen peas or spinach towards the end of cooking. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner on the table fast. Think of it as a shortcut to Creamy Buttered Noodles & Chicken, but with extra deliciousness!

Making it a Meal for Two (or the Whole Family!)

Are you looking for a Quick Chicken Dinner For 2? This recipe is easily scalable! Simply halve the ingredients for a perfect portion for two. On the other hand, if you’re feeding a hungry crowd, double or triple the recipe. Just make sure you have a large enough skillet or pot! This recipe is also a great option for Dinner For Parents when you need something quick and easy that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a step up from basic buttered noodles; it offers a complete protein and comforting carbs, making it a well-rounded meal.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Skillet

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Make sure to cook it just until it’s no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time.
• Use Fresh Garlic: While garlic powder is convenient, fresh garlic adds a much more intense and aromatic flavor to the sauce. It’s worth the extra effort to mince a couple of cloves.
• Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
• Add Some Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skillet. Broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, or chopped bell peppers would all be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet when you add the noodles, so they cook at the same time.
• Use High-Quality Parmesan Cheese: The quality of the Parmesan cheese can make a big difference in the flavor of the sauce. Look for a good-quality Parmesan that is aged and has a rich, nutty flavor. Avoid the pre-shredded Parmesan cheese, as it often contains cellulose and other additives that can prevent it from melting properly.
• Don’t Forget the Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish and also makes it look more appealing. Don’t skip it!

Variations on a Theme: Exploring Noodle Possibilities

While egg noodles are a classic choice for this dish, you can certainly experiment with other types of noodles. Penne, rotini, or even fettuccine would all work well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your list of Easy Noodle Dinner Recipes. You might also enjoy variations like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta or even Garlic Butter Chicken Noodles for different but equally delicious flavor profiles. For something a little more adventurous, consider trying something like Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

Want to get ahead of the game? You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Cook the chicken as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make the sauce and store it separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to assemble the dish, simply cook the noodles and combine everything in the skillet. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little milk or chicken broth if needed to prevent the noodles from drying out. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, the leftovers are still pretty darn tasty!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

This Chicken Buttery Noodle Skillet is a complete meal in itself, but you can certainly serve it with a side dish or two to round out the meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would be a great complement to the richness of the dish. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus would also be delicious options. For a heartier meal, serve it with some crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the sauce. It’s one of those Good Supper Recipes that is sure to please.

Chicken Safety First!

When handling raw chicken, it’s important to follow proper food safety guidelines to prevent the spread of bacteria. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw chicken. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken and other foods. Cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. I hope you enjoy this Chicken Buttery Noodle Skillet as much as I do! It’s a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Happy cooking!