Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite comfort foods: chicken with buttered noodles. This dish is the epitome of simplicity and deliciousness, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you just want something warm and satisfying. Picture juicy, tender chicken paired with perfectly cooked egg noodles, all coated in rich, melted butter and a hint of garlic—yum! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation. So, let’s dive right in and whip up this delightful dish together!
Ingredients List
- 2 chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Prepare Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Cooking the Noodles
First things first, let’s get those egg noodles cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the 8 ounces of egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 7 to 9 minutes until they’re al dente. You want them tender but with a little bite! When they’re ready, just drain them in a colander and set aside for now.
Preparing the Chicken
Now, let’s move on to the chicken! In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute—just until it’s fragrant. Then, take your seasoned chicken breasts and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Combining the Dish
While the chicken is resting, let’s bring everything together! Return the drained noodles to the pot and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until it melts and coats the noodles beautifully. Now, slice that juicy chicken and serve it right on top of the buttered noodles. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. And there you have it—your chicken with buttered noodles is ready to be devoured!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
- Comforting flavors that everyone will enjoy.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies.
- One pan makes for easy cleanup—yes, please!
- Rich butter and garlic elevate each bite to deliciousness.
- Kid-friendly and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Tips for Success
Here are my top tips to ensure your chicken with buttered noodles turns out absolutely perfect every time! Trust me, these little details make a big difference.
- Season generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of both the chicken and the noodles. You can also try adding a pinch of garlic powder or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost.
- Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and parsley. They add a vibrant flavor that dried ingredients just can’t match. Plus, fresh herbs make everything look prettier!
- Check for doneness: Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached at least 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s juicy and safe to eat. If you don’t have one, just cut into the thickest part of the chicken—it should be white and no longer pink.
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Keep an eye on those egg noodles and taste them a minute or two before the package time is up. You want them to be al dente, meaning they should still have a slight firmness when bitten into.
- Butter at the end: For the creamiest buttered noodles, add the remaining butter while the noodles are still hot. This helps the butter melt beautifully and coat every strand, creating that deliciously rich texture.
- Experiment with veggies: If you want to sneak in some extra nutrition, feel free to toss in some steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed spinach right before serving. It’s an easy way to add color and nutrients without much effort.
With these tips in hand, you’re all set to make a delicious meal that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the things I love about chicken with buttered noodles is how versatile it is! You can easily mix things up to suit your taste or to use up what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Add Vegetables: You can toss in some steamed broccoli, peas, or even sautéed bell peppers right before serving for extra color and nutrition. It’s a great way to make the dish even more wholesome!
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. Dried Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, too!
- Creamy Twist: If you’re in the mood for something a bit richer, stir in a splash of heavy cream or some cream cheese along with the butter for a creamy sauce that clings to the noodles.
- Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese over the top just before serving. It melts beautifully into the hot noodles and adds a delightful salty flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap out the butter for sesame oil and add soy sauce, ginger, and green onions for an Asian twist. You can even toss in some shredded carrots or snap peas!
- Make It Spicy: If you love heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the finished dish. It’s a simple way to elevate the flavor and add some zing!
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these ideas! The best part about cooking is making a dish your own, so have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of chicken with buttered noodles. Keep in mind that this is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 35g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein thanks to the chicken, making it a great choice for a satisfying meal. Enjoy every bite while knowing you’re getting a good balance of nutrients!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and delicious, you can swap them for any pasta you have on hand, like fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What can I serve with chicken and buttered noodles?
This dish is versatile, so feel free to pair it with a fresh side salad, steamed vegetables, or some garlic bread for that extra touch. It’s a complete meal on its own but adding a side can really elevate your dining experience!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can absolutely prep some components ahead! Cook the chicken and noodles in advance, but I recommend adding the butter and garlic just before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious. Just reheat gently in the skillet when you’re ready to eat!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra butter if needed to keep things moist.
Can I add more protein to this dish?
Definitely! If you want to boost the protein content, you could toss in some cooked shrimp, diced ham, or even some chickpeas. It’s a great way to mix things up and add even more flavor!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving chicken with buttered noodles, I’ve got a few ideas that will really round out your meal! Here are some delightful sides and beverages that pair perfectly with this comforting dish:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the noodles.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus not only add color but also a nutritious boost to your plate.
- Garlic Bread: For the carb lovers, some warm, buttery garlic bread is always a hit—perfect for soaking up any leftover butter!
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs can be a hearty side that complements the flavors beautifully.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs nicely with the buttery richness of the dish.
- Lemonade: For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade adds a nice zing and complements the meal perfectly!
Feel free to mix and match your favorites to create the ideal dining experience. Enjoy your meal!
For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can visit Healthline.
To learn more about the nutritional value of pasta, check out Nutrition Value.
Print
Chicken with Buttered Noodles: 5 Simple Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious dish of chicken served with buttered noodles.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
- Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
- Drain noodles and return them to the pot.
- Add remaining butter to the noodles and stir until melted.
- Slice the chicken and serve it over the buttered noodles. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for more flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Can add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken, buttered noodles, easy recipe
