Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Name: Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz egg noodles; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 tablespoons butter (for noodles); 2 tablespoons butter (for chicken); 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Published: June 15, 2025

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Comfort Food: The garlic butter sauce elevates the simple ingredients, creating a rich and tasty experience.
Versatile Meal: Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love the tender noodles and delicious chicken bites, making it a family favorite.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, saving you time in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: This is crucial for cooking the noodles and combining all ingredients efficiently.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

8 oz egg noodles
3 tablespoons butter
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons butter (for chicken)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

How to Make Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the noodles and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add chicken pieces and season with Italian seasoning.
Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to low, then stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup and chicken broth.
Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked egg noodles to the pot with the sauce.
Gently toss everything together until the noodles are coated in sauce.

Enjoy this comforting dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors! Be sure to follow my blog for more delicious recipes like this one! Thank you for reading!

How to Serve Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites is a comforting and satisfying dish. It can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

Toss fresh spinach or mixed greens with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing contrast to the rich noodles.

With Grated Parmesan

Top your noodles with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor and creaminess.

Paired with Garlic Bread

Serve warm garlic bread on the side, which complements the savory chicken and buttery noodles perfectly.

In Individual Bowls

Present each serving in individual bowls for a cozy, restaurant-style feel. Consider garnishing with chopped parsley for color.

How to Perfect Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

To create the ultimate Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, consider these helpful tips.

Use high-quality noodles: Opt for fresh egg noodles if possible; they provide a richer flavor and better texture.
Season the chicken well: A generous sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the taste of the chicken bites during cooking.
Melt butter properly: Ensure that the butter is melted over low heat to prevent burning and achieve a smooth sauce.
Add veggies: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and color.
Adjust broth consistency: If the mixture seems too thick, add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Garnish creatively: Fresh herbs or lemon zest can elevate the dish, adding freshness and brightness.

Best Side Dishes for Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Complement your Cafeteria Noodles with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal’s flavors.

Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and balances the richness of the noodles.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a lovely contrast in flavor while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce topped with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing, perfect for pairing.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting addition that works beautifully with garlic butter flavors.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and enhances the overall meal experience.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture and refreshing taste that cuts through richness nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best results.

Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken properly can result in bland bites. Always use salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavor.
Overcooking the noodles: Overcooked noodles can become mushy. Cook them according to package instructions for a perfect texture.
Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap broth or butter can affect the taste. Opt for high-quality chicken broth and real butter for better flavor.
Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting chicken immediately after cooking can lead to dry meat. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Ignoring the sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thick, it may not coat the noodles well. Adjust with additional broth or water if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth until warm, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these delicious Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites, read on for some common inquiries.

How can I customize Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

You can add vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition and color. Experimenting with spices also allows you to create your unique flavor profile.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Absolutely! While egg noodles work best, feel free to substitute with fettuccine or even gluten-free options if preferred.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can make a homemade version using heavy cream and chicken broth thickened with flour or cornstarch. This keeps it creamy without compromising flavor.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when sealed properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

These Cafeteria Noodles With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different vegetables or spices based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card