Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Chicken with Buttered Noodles, especially when it’s prepared with love and care. This dish has become a staple in our household, perfect for cozy family dinners or when we need a hearty meal after a long day. The tender chicken medallions, smothered in a rich mushroom sauce, served over buttery egg noodles, create a flavor profile that is both satisfying and memorable. My family often asks for this dish, and it never fails to bring smiles to our dinner table.

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

Instructions

Cook the Noodles:

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add egg noodles and cook until tender, following package instructions.
3. Drain the noodles and toss them with butter, salt, and pepper. Set aside and keep warm.

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season chicken medallions with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on each side, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Mushroom Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, melt butter.
2. Add mushrooms and onions, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and thyme or rosemary if using. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, or until cooked through.

Serve:

1. Spoon buttered noodles onto plates.
2. Top with chicken medallions and mushroom sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 540 kcal
• Protein: 35 g
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Plating:
• Serve the buttered noodles first, creating a base on each plate.
• Top with the chicken medallions and generously spoon the mushroom sauce over them.
• Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
• Accompaniments:
• Pair with a side salad for a refreshing crunch.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Additional Tips

1. Marinate the Chicken: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least an hour before cooking.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish, adding a vibrant taste compared to dried herbs.
3. Experiment with Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you love, like fettuccine or penne.
4. Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers for more nutrition and color.
5. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce as it simmers.

Recipe Variations

• Herb-Crusted Chicken: Coat the chicken medallions in breadcrumbs mixed with herbs before frying for added texture.
• Mushroom Variety: Use a mix of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and portobello, for a more complex flavor.
• Creamy Garlic Sauce: Swap out the mushrooms for garlic and use additional cream for a rich garlic sauce instead.

Serving Suggestions

• Seasonal Side Dishes: Pair with seasonal vegetables such as roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans.
• Wine Pairing: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra flavor and remain juicy.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?

• To make it gluten-free, substitute regular egg noodles with gluten-free pasta.

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat before serving.

1. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

• You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich.

1. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

• Use olive oil in place of butter and substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

1. Can I add cheese to the dish?

• Absolutely! Adding grated Parmesan or mozzarella can enhance the flavor.

1. What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

• Simply stir in a little more chicken broth or cream to achieve your desired consistency.

1. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

• Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

• It’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking. If using frozen, increase cooking time and check for doneness.

1. What sides go well with this dish?
   • Consider a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a heartwarming dish that perfectly balances comfort and flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this meal is sure to satisfy. With its rich mushroom sauce and buttery noodles, it’s an ideal way to bring everyone together at the table. Try it out and savor the delightful combination of textures and tastes that will have your family asking for seconds!

Print