Chicken with Buttered Noodles

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Introduction

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple, comforting, and satisfying dish that brings together juicy, tender chicken with perfectly cooked noodles, all tossed in a rich, buttery sauce. This meal is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. The combination of seasoned chicken and silky, buttery noodles creates a balance of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a timeless favorite that you can enjoy any day of the week.

I remember the first time I made this for a casual family dinner. The aroma of the butter melting over the noodles and the sizzling chicken in the pan made everyone gather around the table in anticipation. What’s great about this dish is its versatility—whether you prefer to season the chicken with herbs, spices, or a simple salt and pepper rub, it’s easy to customize to your taste. The buttery noodles add a rich, comforting touch, making every bite feel like a warm hug.

This dish is so easy to prepare, too. With just a few simple ingredients like chicken, noodles, butter, and some seasonings, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Family gatherings
  • Comfort food cravings
  • A satisfying meal on chilly nights

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Chicken with Buttered Noodles will quickly become your go-to meal:

  • Tender Chicken: The chicken breasts are perfectly seasoned and pan-seared to golden brown perfection, keeping them juicy and flavorful.
  • Buttery Noodles: The noodles are coated in a rich, creamy butter sauce, making them irresistible and comforting.
  • Simple and Quick: Made with only a few basic ingredients, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
  • Versatile: You can customize the dish with your choice of seasonings or vegetables to fit your preferences.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for making ahead, as the noodles and chicken stay flavorful even after reheating.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 40g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Chicken with Buttered Noodles:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herb)

For the Noodles:

  • 8 oz egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken Breasts: The lean protein source in this dish, perfect for a filling meal.
  • Egg Noodles: Soft, comforting noodles that soak up the buttery sauce beautifully.
  • Butter and Olive Oil: The combination provides richness and flavor to the noodles.
  • Garlic and Herbs: Essential for adding depth to the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken with Buttered Noodles:

Cook the Noodles:

  1. Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain the noodles and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Season the Chicken: While the noodles are cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme on both sides.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Make the Buttered Noodles:

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
  2. Toss the Noodles: Add the drained noodles to the skillet, tossing them in the butter and garlic mixture until evenly coated. If the noodles seem dry, add a small amount of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  3. Season the Noodles: Season the noodles with salt and pepper to taste, and toss again to combine.

Serve the Dish:

  1. Slice the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
  2. Assemble and Serve: Plate the buttered noodles and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, and serve immediately.

How to Serve

  • With a Side Salad: Pair the dish with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
  • With Steamed Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots make great sides.
  • With Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious butter sauce.
  • With Parmesan: A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory finish.

Additional Tips

  • For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to the buttered noodles for a hint of freshness.
  • Chicken Variations: You can also use boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier option.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil for a unique flavor twist.
  • Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the buttered noodles for a bit of heat.

Recipe Variations

  1. Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Noodles – Toss the noodles with Parmesan and garlic for a richer flavor.
  2. Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles – Add heavy cream to the butter mixture for a creamy, indulgent sauce.
  3. Chicken with Lemon Buttered Noodles – Stir in fresh lemon juice for a zesty twist.
  4. Chicken with Veggie Buttered Noodles – Add sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the noodles for added nutrition.
  5. Spicy Chicken with Buttered Noodles – Incorporate chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  6. Chicken with Pesto Buttered Noodles – Mix in some pesto for an herby, flavorful alternative to the butter sauce.
  7. Honey Mustard Chicken with Buttered Noodles – Top with a honey mustard drizzle for extra sweetness.
  8. Grilled Chicken with Buttered Noodles – Grill the chicken for a smoky twist.
  9. Chicken with Basil Buttered Noodles – Add fresh basil to the noodles for an aromatic finish.
  10. Chicken with Buttered Noodles and Mushrooms – Stir in sautéed mushrooms for a savory depth.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: While the noodles and chicken can be frozen, the butter sauce may separate upon reheating. To freeze, wrap the chicken and noodles tightly and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added butter or water to bring the sauce back together.

Special Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large pot for boiling noodles
  • Tongs or spatula for flipping chicken
  • Knife and cutting board for slicing chicken

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, any type of pasta like spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine works.
  2. Can I use skin-on chicken? Yes, just adjust cooking time to ensure the skin crisps up and the chicken cooks through.
  3. Can I add cheese to the noodles? Absolutely! Parmesan or mozzarella would be great additions.
  4. Can I make this ahead? You can prep the chicken and noodles separately, then combine and heat before serving.
  5. Can I use a different protein? This recipe works well with turkey or even pork chops if preferred.

Conclusion

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Tender, juicy chicken paired with rich, buttery noodles creates a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.

Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or when you’re craving something cozy and delicious, this dish always hits the spot. With just a few basic ingredients, it’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table.

I’d love to see how your Chicken with Buttered Noodles turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations. Enjoy every bite!

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