Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken medallions and a rich, creamy sauce, paired with buttery egg noodles for a complete, satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, offering a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen. The dish has earthy flavors from mushrooms, a hint of garlic, and a creamy broth that elevates the simple ingredients into a delicious, comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat.
Why We Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this recipe, from its ease of preparation to its comforting flavors. Here are a few standout reasons:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can have this dish on the table in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners.
- Great Flavor: The chicken is pan-seared to perfection, while mushrooms, onions, and garlic create a savory base for the creamy sauce. The buttered noodles are simple yet complement the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce beautifully.
- Versatile: You can adjust the seasoning, add extra vegetables, or even use a different type of pasta. It’s a recipe that’s easy to adapt based on your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is mild enough for children but flavorful enough for adults. It’s a guaranteed hit with the whole family!
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into medallions
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Buttered Noodles:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken medallions with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken medallions in a single layer.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are golden and the onions are translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
- Add the heavy cream and dried thyme or rosemary if using, stirring well to combine.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Add the Chicken Back
- Return the chicken medallions to the skillet and spoon some sauce over them.
- Let the chicken cook in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Prepare the Buttered Noodles
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain the noodles and return them to the pot. Add butter and toss until the noodles are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the chicken medallions and creamy sauce over a bed of buttered noodles.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Success Tips
- Use Thin Chicken Medallions: Slicing the chicken breasts into medallions ensures they cook quickly and evenly. You could also use chicken tenderloins or thin-cut chicken breasts.
- Don’t Skip Searing: Searing the chicken in olive oil adds a layer of flavor. The browned bits left in the skillet after searing enhance the sauce, giving it a depth that makes the dish truly stand out.
- Heavy Cream for Richness: While you can use half-and-half for a lighter option, heavy cream gives the sauce a luxurious, creamy texture.
- Experiment with Herbs: This recipe calls for dried thyme or rosemary, but feel free to use fresh herbs or substitute with Italian seasoning if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Customize the Buttered Noodles: You can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a pinch of garlic powder to the noodles for extra flavor.
Storage
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and noodles in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Freezing: While the noodles don’t freeze well, the chicken and sauce can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Notes
- Mushrooms: Feel free to use your favorite variety, such as cremini or button mushrooms. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can skip them or replace them with another vegetable, like bell peppers or spinach.
- Heavy Cream Substitutes: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. However, the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
- Egg Noodles Alternative: Egg noodles are traditional for buttered noodles, but you can also use pasta types like fettuccine, spaghetti, or even mashed potatoes as a base.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply replace the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, like chicken broth, are gluten-free.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini make great additions. Just sauté them with the mushrooms and onions.
Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: You can substitute with half-and-half, but keep in mind that the sauce may be a bit thinner. For a thicker consistency, consider adding a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in a little water.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs or even pork tenderloin medallions work well as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting, satisfying meal that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. The creamy sauce, savory mushrooms, and buttery noodles come together in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet homely. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe offers a warm, hearty experience that will quickly become a household favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite of this comforting classic!