Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Chicken with buttered noodles is a comforting, quick, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. This recipe combines juicy chicken breast with perfectly cooked egg noodles, all tossed in a rich and creamy butter sauce with a hint of garlic. With the addition of grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it becomes a well-balanced dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re serving it with a side of vegetables or enjoying it on its own, this easy-to-make dish will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days when you want something homemade but don’t have much time.

2. Comforting and Flavorful

The combination of tender chicken, buttered noodles, and garlic makes for a comforting meal that the whole family will love.

3. Versatile

You can easily adapt this recipe by adding vegetables, different seasonings, or swapping the chicken for another protein like shrimp or turkey.

4. Minimal Ingredients

With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is both budget-friendly and easy to prepare without compromising on flavor.

5. Kid-Friendly

With mild flavors and familiar ingredients, this dish is perfect for picky eaters and a great way to introduce children to new tastes.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast
• Egg noodles
• Butter
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley

Variations

1. Add Vegetables
   Incorporate vegetables such as spinach, peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
2. Swap the Protein
   You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey breast.
3. Spicy Kick
   Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
4. Herb Buttered Noodles
   Enhance the flavor by using a mix of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil in the butter sauce.
5. Creamy Buttered Noodles
   For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the butter mixture before tossing the noodles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

Boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and slice it into thin strips. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet.

Step 6: Combine the Noodles and Chicken

Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the chicken. Toss everything together so the noodles are coated with the butter and garlic sauce.

Step 7: Add Parmesan

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken
  Overcooking the chicken can result in dry meat. Make sure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy by checking the internal temperature.
• Use Fresh Garlic
  Fresh garlic adds a lot of flavor to the dish. Mince it yourself instead of using pre-minced garlic for the best taste.
• Butter Alternatives
  For a lighter version, use olive oil or a combination of olive oil and butter.
• Add Extra Cheese
  If you love cheese, feel free to add more grated Parmesan or mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
• Make It Creamier
  For a creamy version, add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream when mixing in the noodles.

How to Serve

Chicken with buttered noodles is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a balanced meal. You could also enjoy it with some garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious butter sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the noodles from getting too dry, store the chicken and noodles together in the sauce.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but the noodles may become slightly mushy upon reheating. To freeze, store the chicken and noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a small amount of butter or water to help rehydrate the noodles. You can also microwave individual servings, covering them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other pasta you prefer.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and will provide a richer flavor.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Add peas, spinach, or broccoli to the skillet with the chicken for a nutritious boost.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture for some heat.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and noodles ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter gives the best flavor, you can substitute margarine if needed, though the taste may differ slightly.

7. Can I use store-bought garlic in a jar?

For the freshest taste, it’s best to use fresh garlic, but jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch.

8. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.

9. Can I make this dish creamy?

Yes, you can add cream, sour cream, or cream cheese for a creamy texture.

10. Can I serve this with a sauce?

While the butter sauce is rich enough, you can add a creamy garlic sauce or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken with buttered noodles is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together juicy chicken, soft noodles, and a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just want a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a versatile option that you can enjoy with a variety of sides or toppings. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a meal that’s both quick and incredibly delicious.

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