Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Introduction

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weeknight treat. This dish combines tender chicken medallions in a creamy mushroom sauce, served over buttery egg noodles. With just a few fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs, this dish becomes a rich, satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Overview of the Recipe

In this recipe, juicy chicken breasts are paired with sautéed mushrooms and onions in a creamy, savory sauce. Buttered egg noodles serve as the perfect base, soaking up the flavorful sauce and providing a tender contrast to the chicken. A touch of garlic, thyme, or rosemary adds an aromatic depth that complements the earthy mushrooms and creamy sauce.

History and Origin

This recipe has roots in classic European cooking traditions, where noodles and creamy sauces are often combined with chicken. While similar in some ways to Italian pasta dishes and French chicken recipes, Chicken with Buttered Noodles has a simpler, more rustic charm that’s perfect for home cooking. This dish is inspired by the hearty, comforting flavors of Central and Eastern Europe, where buttered noodles are commonly served with meat and sauce combinations.

Ingredients

For the Chicken with Mushroom Sauce

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into medallions
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 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

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the egg noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until tender, usually about 6-8 minutes.
3. Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
4. Toss the noodles with 2 tbsp butter, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover to keep warm and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken medallions with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Place the chicken medallions in the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp of butter and allow it to melt over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion to the skillet. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are browned and the onions are softened.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate any browned bits into the sauce. This step will help add depth to the flavor.
5. Simmer the broth for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and the optional dried thyme or rosemary. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Return the cooked chicken medallions to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, or until heated through.

Step 4: Serve

1. Divide the buttered noodles among plates.
2. Place the chicken medallions on top of the noodles, then generously spoon the mushroom sauce over the chicken and noodles.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Serving Size

This recipe serves 4 people.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Chicken with Buttered Noodles pairs well with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce. Additionally, a side of crusty bread or garlic bread would be excellent for soaking up any extra sauce.

For beverages, try serving this dish with sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or a refreshing mocktail with citrus and herbs to balance the richness of the meal.

Variations of the Recipe

• Herb Variations: For a more robust flavor, use fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage instead of dried herbs. You can add a small sprig while simmering the sauce and remove it before serving.
• Different Noodles: Swap egg noodles for fettuccine, linguine, or even rice for a twist on the dish.
• Vegetable Additions: Adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value. Stir these in with the mushrooms and onions for a well-rounded dish.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter, dairy-free version.

Health Benefits Notes

Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Mushrooms provide valuable nutrients such as B vitamins, potassium, and antioxidants, which support immune health and energy production. Olive oil and butter add a moderate amount of healthy fats to the dish, while garlic and onions offer compounds that may boost immune function. This dish, when balanced with vegetables, can be part of a wholesome, satisfying meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They will provide a richer flavor and may need slightly more cooking time.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet, adding a little extra broth if needed, and prepare fresh buttered noodles.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure that any broth used is also gluten-free.

Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or milk mixed with a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the chicken and mushroom sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove, and prepare fresh noodles when serving.

Conclusion

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is an ideal recipe for those who crave comforting, homemade flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy mushroom sauce, combined with perfectly cooked chicken and buttery noodles, creates a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for both special occasions and easy weeknight dinners. With its blend of tender chicken, rich sauce, and simple yet comforting noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Experiment with fresh herbs, additional vegetables, or alternative pastas to make it your own, and enjoy the warmth and richness of this classic recipe.

Chicken with Buttered Noodles

---

• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This creamy chicken with buttered noodles recipe combines tender chicken medallions in a savory mushroom sauce with buttery egg noodles. It’s a hearty, comforting dish perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.

 

---

Ingredients

• Chicken & Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp butter, 8 oz mushrooms (sliced), 1 lb chicken breasts (sliced into medallions), salt & black pepper (to taste), 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 (for garnish)
• Buttered Noodles: 8 oz egg noodles, 2 tbsp butter, salt & pepper (to taste)

---

Instructions

• Cook the Noodles: Boil water with salt, cook noodles until tender, drain, then toss with butter, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
• Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add chicken, and cook until golden (3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
• Make the Mushroom Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add mushrooms and onions, cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic, cook for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth, deglaze, then simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and thyme/rosemary if desired. Simmer until slightly thickened.
• Combine: Return chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes until cooked through.
• Serve: Plate the buttered noodles, top with chicken and mushroom sauce, and garnish with parsley.

Notes

• Adjust seasonings to taste.
• Add fresh herbs for additional flavor.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sauté
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 480 per serving
• Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g