Garlic Butter Chicken with Noodles is an incredibly simple and satisfying dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with loved ones, this dish offers a comforting experience that is as delicious as it is easy to prepare.
In this recipe, the chicken is cooked until golden and juicy, coated with the savory garlic butter sauce, and combined with soft noodles. Topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it’s the perfect balance of flavors. This dish can be paired with a salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Let’s dive into the details of this easy yet indulgent recipe!
Ingredients
For this Garlic Butter Chicken with Noodles recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 8 oz egg noodles or spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
These ingredients are all easy to find and will transform your simple chicken and noodle combination into a gourmet meal. The garlic and butter combination is the star of this recipe, creating a sauce that will make every bite irresistible.
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are of even size for consistent cooking. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. You can also marinate the chicken in the seasoning for a few minutes if you have extra time, but seasoning right before cooking will still yield great results.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Make sure the chicken is spread out evenly in the pan, allowing for a nice sear. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is golden brown and fully cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This will allow the chicken to rest and stay tender.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter in the skillet, scraping up any delicious browned bits left from the chicken. This will add an extra layer of flavor to the garlic butter sauce.
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be sure not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter if overcooked. Once the garlic is fragrant, add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). The red pepper flakes will add a nice hint of spice, but they are optional. Stir everything together to allow the garlic and spices to infuse the butter.
Step 4: Combine the Noodles and Chicken
Now, it’s time to add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Whether you’ve used egg noodles or spaghetti, toss them into the skillet, ensuring the noodles are well-coated with the flavorful garlic butter sauce. The noodles should soak up all the savory goodness from the sauce.
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, mixing it with the noodles. This will help the chicken absorb some of the garlic butter sauce as well, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Cook everything together for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the noodles and chicken to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
To complete the dish, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Toss everything together so that the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy finish. The cheese will add a nice richness and balance the savory flavors from the garlic butter.
Finally, garnish the dish with fresh parsley, which will add a pop of color and freshness. This step is optional but highly recommended for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Garlic Butter Chicken with Noodles is now ready to serve! Plate the dish warm, and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness with each bite. Whether you choose to pair it with a simple side salad or some sautéed vegetables, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with any pasta of your choice. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne would work well with this garlic butter sauce. Just be sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! If you prefer using chicken thighs, they will add even more richness and flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken thighs may take a little longer to cook through than chicken breasts.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can swap out the butter for a dairy-free butter substitute, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. There are many plant-based cheese options available that would work perfectly with this dish.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce when mixing the noodles and chicken. For an extra kick, you could also include some finely chopped jalapeños or other spicy peppers when sautéing the garlic.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the components ahead of time. Prepare the chicken and garlic butter sauce, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce, cook the noodles, and combine everything for a quick and easy meal.
6. How can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra butter or olive oil to restore the creaminess of the sauce.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken with Noodles is a delightful and simple meal that everyone will love. The savory garlic butter sauce, perfectly seasoned chicken, and soft, tender noodles make for a comforting dish that can be enjoyed any night of the week. With just a few ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights when you need something flavorful yet easy to prepare.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a satisfying dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley to add a little extra freshness and color.
Try making this dish tonight, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken with Noodles. It’s a meal that everyone will be asking for again and again!