01 -
First things first, get your chicken ready. I usually pat my chicken breasts dry with a paper towel; it helps them get a nice sear later, and who doesn't love a good sear? Then, slice them into bite-sized pieces, or thin cutlets if you prefer. While you’re doing that, get a big pot of salted water boiling for your noodles. I always forget the salt, then remember, and then add a generous amount. Don't be like me; salt the water from the start! Cook your noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain them.
02 -
Now for the fun part! Grab a large skillet – a heavy-bottomed one works best, I find – and melt about half of your unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your chicken pieces in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of sear. I’ve made that mistake too many times, ending up with pale, sad chicken. Let them get nice and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. You want that beautiful color! Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
03 -
This is where the magic happens for your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Noodles! Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the rest of your butter to the skillet. Once it’s melted, toss in all that glorious minced garlic. Oh, the smell! It’s intoxicating. Sauté it for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant and lightly golden – don't let it burn, or it’ll taste bitter, and that’s a real bummer. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
04 -
Next, slowly pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Those bits are flavor bombs, trust me! Then, pour in the heavy cream. Give it a good stir and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. I love watching it transform into this luscious, rich liquid. This step is key for that perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Noodles texture.
05 -
Once your sauce has thickened, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and smooth. Now, add your seared chicken back into the skillet, along with your cooked noodles (or zoodles!). Toss everything gently until the chicken and noodles are fully coated in that incredible Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Noodles sauce. It’s okay if there's a little delicious mess in the pan; that’s just part of the process!
06 -
Taste and adjust any seasonings if needed. Sometimes I add a little more pepper or a tiny pinch more salt here. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve your Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Noodles immediately, while it’s warm and the sauce is perfectly creamy. It looks so vibrant and smells absolutely divine. Don’t hesitate to dig in!