Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Introduction:

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a classic comfort food dish that brings together tender chicken, savory seasonings, and buttery noodles for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dish and explore why it’s a perennial favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 12 ounces noodles, cooked and buttered
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they begin to brown and release their juices, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, thyme, and oregano, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and reduce the liquid by half, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer again. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and warm through in the sauce.
8. Serve the chicken over buttered noodles, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Hot: Chicken with Buttered Noodles is best enjoyed hot, straight from the stove. Serve the chicken slices on top of a generous portion of buttered noodles, ensuring that each serving is piping hot.
2. Garnish: Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This adds visual appeal to the dish and complements the flavors of the chicken and noodles.
3. Accompaniments: Consider serving Chicken with Buttered Noodles alongside a side salad or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. The freshness of the salad or vegetables balances the richness of the dish and adds nutritional value.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have any leftover Chicken with Buttered Noodles, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheat Properly: When ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help prevent the noodles from drying out during reheating.
3. Freeze for Longer Storage: Chicken with Buttered Noodles can be frozen for future meals. Place the cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, ensuring that it is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Frozen leftovers can be stored for up to 1-2 months.
4. Thaw Before Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw the frozen Chicken with Buttered Noodles overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until thoroughly heated, adding additional broth or water as needed to maintain moisture.

FAQs:

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for Chicken with Buttered Noodles. Thighs are slightly more flavorful and tend to be juicier, but both cuts work well in this dish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken thighs are cooked through.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
   • Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of this dish, you can substitute the chicken with plant-based protein alternatives such as tofu or tempeh. For a vegan version, use dairy-free butter and egg-free noodles. Additionally, vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for added flavor.
3. Can I prepare the buttered noodles separately from the chicken?
   • Yes, you can prepare the buttered noodles separately if desired. Simply cook the noodles according to the package instructions, toss them in garlic butter, and set aside. Meanwhile, cook the chicken separately, then serve the chicken slices over the buttered noodles when plating.
4. How can I prevent the noodles from sticking together when storing leftovers?
   • To prevent the noodles from sticking together when storing leftovers, make sure they are completely cooled before transferring them to an airtight container. You can also toss the noodles with a little olive oil or butter before storing to create a protective barrier and keep them from clumping.
5. Can I freeze Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
   • Yes, Chicken with Buttered Noodles can be frozen for future meals. Store the cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, ensuring they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and enjoy within 1-2 months for the best quality.