Homestyle Chicken with Buttered Noodles

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked egg noodles. This classic American dish traces its roots back to Pennsylvania Dutch country, where hearty, satisfying meals were essential for hardworking families. I’ve perfected this recipe over years of professional cooking, incorporating elements that transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dinner that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

What makes this recipe special is the rich mushroom sauce that brings everything together. The secret lies in properly browning the chicken to create those flavorful brown bits (fond) on the bottom of the pan, which later become the foundation of our luxurious sauce.

Prep Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large pot for noodles
• Colander
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 1 pound (450g) chicken breasts, sliced into ½-inch medallions
• 8 ounces (225g) fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely diced (about ¾ cup/120g)
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Buttered Noodles

• 8 ounces (225g) egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Noodles

1. Fill a large pot with water and add 1 tablespoon salt. Bring to a rolling boil.
2. Add egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 7-9 minutes).
3. Drain noodles in a colander, then return to pot.
4. Toss with butter, salt, and pepper. Cover to keep warm.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Pat chicken medallions dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Place chicken medallions in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd (work in batches if necessary).
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temperature).
5. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Making the Mushroom Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
2. Once butter melts, add mushrooms and onions. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all the flavorful browned bits.
5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until liquid reduces by half.
6. Stir in heavy cream and herbs. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
7. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Assembly and Serving

1. Divide buttered noodles among four plates.
2. Top with chicken medallions.
3. Spoon generous amounts of mushroom sauce over chicken.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley.
5. Serve immediately while hot.

Pro Tips

• Slice chicken medallions to an even thickness for consistent cooking
• Don’t move the chicken while it’s browning to achieve a golden crust
• Use fresh mushrooms rather than canned for better texture and flavor
• Save some pasta cooking water before draining to adjust sauce consistency if needed

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Storage Instructions

Store leftover chicken and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

This comforting chicken with buttered noodles recipe transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and silky sauce creates a dish that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.