Chicken with Buttered Noodles

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! Chicken with Buttered Noodles is one of those recipes that brings back memories of family dinners and laughter around the table. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that everyone can enjoy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even special family gatherings. The tender chicken combined with buttery noodles seasoned just right makes every bite comforting and satisfying.

This dish is not only easy to whip up but also allows for creativity in the kitchen. You can have this on the table in about 25 minutes, which is fantastic when you need something quick but still want to impress your loved ones. Let’s dive into why this recipe has earned a special spot in my heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, dinner can be ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves buttery noodles, and the chicken adds extra flavor and protein.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Simple ingredients mean you know exactly what’s in your meal.
• Endless Customization: Add your favorite veggies or swap proteins to make it your own.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of garlic, herbs, and butter creates a delightful aroma that fills your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for Chicken with Buttered Noodles are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil and parsley)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about Chicken with Buttered Noodles is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using diced turkey or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Add some veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta: Experiment with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options to suit your dietary needs.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some cream or a splash of vegetable broth for extra richness.

How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. This step is essential because perfectly cooked noodles will hold up well against the sauce. Once done, drain them and set aside while we prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook until they are golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. This step brings out their natural flavors and ensures they stay juicy!

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet after removing the chicken, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic along with Italian seasoning; cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step infuses your dish with aromatic flavors that will make everyone eager to eat!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained noodles back into the skillet along with the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss until all the noodles are coated in that delicious buttery sauce. Finally, fold in your cooked chicken along with Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

And there you have it—Chicken with Buttered Noodles! A delightful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Creating a delightful Chicken with Buttered Noodles is simple, but a few tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also bring out the natural goodness of the chicken and noodles. Freshness makes a noticeable difference in any dish.

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cooking the chicken just until golden and cooked through keeps it juicy and tender, preventing it from becoming dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

• Reserve some pasta water: If your noodles seem dry after tossing them in butter, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles.

• Experiment with herbs: While Italian seasoning works well, feel free to play around with other herbs like thyme or oregano for a personalized touch. Different herbs can change the flavor profile and keep things interesting!

• Make it a one-pan meal: For fewer dishes to wash, try cooking your vegetables in the same skillet after removing the chicken. This allows them to soak up all those delicious flavors while keeping everything simple!

How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Serving Chicken with Buttered Noodles is an opportunity to impress your family or guests! Here are some great ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that brightens up the plate.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest brings out freshness and balances the richness of the butter sauce.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, these will add an extra kick without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Not only does this add vibrant color to your plate, but its slight bitterness pairs wonderfully with buttery noodles, making it a perfect complement.
• Garlic bread: This classic side adds crunch and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Chicken with Buttered Noodles.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet and slightly caramelized from roasting, these veggies add depth of flavor and pair beautifully with this hearty main dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. You can easily cook a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken and noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and contents to keep track of storage time.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Alternatively, use the microwave: place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Ensure that the chicken is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Chicken with Buttered Noodles.

Can I use other types of pasta for Chicken with Buttered Noodles?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of pasta you choose.

How do I make Chicken with Buttered Noodles gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the regular egg noodles with gluten-free pasta alternatives. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like butter and Parmesan cheese, are also gluten-free.

What can I serve with Chicken with Buttered Noodles?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread for a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Chicken with Buttered Noodles! It’s such a comforting dish that brings everyone together at the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience!