Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

Introduction

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a timeless, comforting dish that brings together tender, flavorful chicken with silky, buttery noodles. This dish combines the richness of perfectly cooked chicken with the lightness of buttery pasta, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just want a cozy meal to enjoy, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

The simplicity of this recipe belies its incredible flavor. The chicken is seasoned to perfection and cooked until golden brown, while the noodles are coated in a luscious butter sauce that’s simply irresistible. This meal is the epitome of comfort food and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting in the kitchen, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a perfect recipe to master. Follow this easy guide to create a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Comforting and Hearty: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of juicy chicken and buttery pasta that will make you feel right at home.
• Simple and Quick: With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is ideal for busy nights or when you just want a quick yet satisfying meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for your family, a dinner party, or a gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone. It’s versatile and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of seasoned chicken, garlic, and rich butter sauce elevates the flavors of the noodles, creating a perfect harmony in each bite.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices to customize the dish to your tastes, making it as simple or as elaborate as you like.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Chicken with Buttered Noodles:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 2 cups egg noodles (or your preferred type of pasta)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta water, for extra flavor)

Special Equipment

While Chicken with Buttered Noodles requires just a few simple kitchen tools, having the right equipment will ensure that everything comes together smoothly:

1. Large Skillet: A large skillet is perfect for cooking the chicken. It ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a golden-brown crust.
2. Large Pot: For cooking the noodles, a large pot will ensure you have plenty of room to boil the pasta without overcrowding, which leads to better texture and consistency.
3. Tongs or Spatula: Tongs are useful for flipping the chicken, while a spatula can help stir the noodles in the butter sauce without breaking them.
4. Measuring Spoons: Accurately measure your seasonings to ensure the right balance of flavors in the chicken and pasta.
5. Chopping Board and Knife: A chopping board and knife are essential for preparing garlic, parsley, and any other fresh ingredients you choose to add.
6. Colander: Use a colander to drain the noodles after cooking, ensuring no excess water remains.
7. Serving Plate or Bowl: Once your meal is ready, serve it on a large plate or in a bowl. A beautiful presentation will make this meal even more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme (if using). Be generous with the seasoning on both sides of the chicken to ensure it’s full of flavor.

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken; it should no longer be pink, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm. Let it rest for a few minutes while you prepare the noodles and butter sauce.

2. Cook the Noodles

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the egg noodles (or your choice of pasta) and cook according to the package directions, typically 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

Once the noodles are cooked, drain them using a colander, but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can be added to the butter sauce for extra creaminess and flavor.

3. Make the Butter Sauce

In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken, lower the heat to medium and melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

If desired, add the reserved pasta water or chicken broth to the skillet. This will help loosen the sauce and bring all the flavors together. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits left from cooking the chicken. This will add additional depth of flavor to the sauce.

Once the butter sauce has come together, toss in the cooked noodles. Stir well to coat the noodles evenly in the rich, garlicky butter sauce. If you’d like, sprinkle in some grated parmesan cheese to add an extra layer of richness and flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Dish

Once the noodles are fully coated in the garlic butter sauce, plate the noodles and top with the rested chicken. Slice the chicken into thin strips or serve whole, depending on your preference. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and fresh flavor.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Chicken with Buttered Noodles immediately while the dish is still warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread to mop up any extra butter sauce.

Tips for Perfect Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooking the chicken can result in dry, tough meat. Be sure to keep an eye on the chicken and check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley will elevate the flavor of this dish, making it more vibrant and aromatic. If you’re using dried parsley, remember that the flavor will be less intense, so you may need to adjust the quantity.
• Customize the Butter Sauce: Feel free to customize the butter sauce with your favorite herbs or spices. You can add fresh basil, oregano, or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Add Vegetables: To make the dish even more balanced, consider adding vegetables to the pasta. Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted bell peppers would complement the flavors of the chicken and noodles perfectly.
• Make It Creamy: If you prefer a creamier butter sauce, stir in some heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese along with the butter. This will create a rich, velvety sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.

Variations of Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Chicken Alfredo with Buttered Noodles: For a richer, more decadent version, make a traditional Alfredo sauce by adding heavy cream and parmesan cheese to the butter sauce. Toss the noodles in this creamy mixture for a luxurious treat.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Buttered Noodles: Elevate the flavors by adding more parmesan cheese to the butter sauce. You can also top the chicken with a generous sprinkle of parmesan before serving.
• Lemon Chicken with Buttered Noodles: Add a zesty twist to the dish by squeezing in some fresh lemon juice and zest. The lemon will brighten the flavors and balance out the richness of the buttered noodles.
• Spicy Chicken with Buttered Noodles: Add a kick of heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the butter sauce. This spicy version pairs well with the mild chicken and noodles.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken with Buttered Noodles: For an extra layer of flavor, coat the chicken in a mixture of breadcrumbs and herbs before cooking. This will give the chicken a crispy, flavorful crust that complements the buttery noodles.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken and noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing: While it’s best to freeze the chicken and noodles separately to maintain their textures, you can freeze both in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the skillet.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Pair this dish with complementary sides to create a well-rounded meal:

• Steamed Vegetables: Pair the dish with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or peas for a healthy and colorful side.
• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the buttery sauce and adds an extra layer of comfort to the meal.
• Side Salad: A fresh salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chicken and noodles, providing a light contrast to the main dish.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes with herbs and garlic are another great side dish to serve with Chicken with Buttered Noodles, adding a satisfying crunch and extra flavor.

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Conclusion

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple yet incredibly delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, this comforting dish will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. With juicy chicken, silky noodles, and a rich garlic butter sauce, every bite is a savory delight. Try this easy-to-make recipe today and enjoy a satisfying, flavorful meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.