Next, I turn my attention to the chicken. In a skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat and season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, I carefully place the chicken in the pan. Sizzling sounds fill the kitchen, and I can almost taste the goodness already! I cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through—an internal temperature of 165°F is key. When the chicken is done, I remove it from the pan and cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
Now, in the same skillet, I add the minced garlic. Oh, how I adore the smell of garlic cooking! I sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, I pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Adding the dried thyme enhances the flavor beautifully. I let the broth simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly, creating a lovely sauce to be poured over the chicken later.
Finally, I toss the cooked noodles into the skillet with the garlic broth, stirring to coat the noodles evenly. The butter goes in next, and oh my, just wait until you see how luscious they become! I serve everything up by slicing the chicken and placing it atop the buttered noodles, finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Delicious!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve tested this recipe a few different ways, and one of my favorite pro tips is to marinate the chicken in a bit of lemon juice and thyme for at least 30 minutes before cooking. It adds an amazing layer of flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
Another tip is to use a good-quality butter. I’ve tried both salted and unsalted, and I’m team unsalted for this dish. It allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through without overpowering them.
Lastly, don’t rush the sauce! Giving the broth time to simmer makes a huge difference in flavor. Allowing it to reduce just a bit enhances the richness and makes every bite scrumptious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve made in the past is overcooking the chicken. It’s easy to get distracted, but you want to avoid dry, rubbery chicken at all costs. Using a meat thermometer can help you ensure perfectly cooked chicken every single time. (See the next page below to continue…)