Quick Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting meal that’s both quick and delicious, look no further than this Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe. Packed with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, this dish is an easy go-to for weeknight dinners that satisfy the whole family. The tender chicken combined with rich, buttery noodles creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that you likely already have on hand.
• Family Friendly: Appeals to all ages with familiar and comforting flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies.
• Fulfilling and Satisfying: Keeps you full without feeling heavy or greasy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken with Buttered Noodles is its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the dish’s delicious flavor profile and texture. From tender chicken breasts to silky noodles and fragrant butter, these elements work together to create a satisfying meal.

• Chicken Breasts: Skinless and boneless, these cook quickly and stay tender.
• Egg Noodles: Their wide, flat shape holds onto butter perfectly for a luscious bite.
• Butter: Adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel throughout the noodles.
• Garlic Cloves: A touch of minced garlic brings aromatic depth to the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Enhances moisture and infuses subtle savory notes.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional but recommended for a sprinkle of savory sharpness.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors.

Variations for Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Feel free to make this Chicken with Buttered Noodles your own by experimenting with different ingredients and seasonings. This recipe’s straightforward base makes customization a breeze to accommodate various tastes or dietary needs.

• Vegetable Boost: Toss in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Herb Swap: Use thyme, rosemary, or dill instead of parsley to change the flavor profile.
• Cheese Variations: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a mild cheddar.
• Protein Options: Swap out chicken for turkey or even shrimp for a different twist.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.

How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the egg noodles. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 7 minutes. Drain the noodles well, saving a splash of pasta water for the sauce if needed.

Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt a generous amount of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth to create a light sauce, letting it simmer for a minute to infuse the flavors.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Add the cooked noodles back into the skillet, tossing them gently in the buttery garlic sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Slice the rested chicken breasts and place them atop the buttery noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your perfect Chicken with Buttered Noodles!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Rest the Chicken: Let chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Aim for al dente to prevent mushy texture.
• Use Fresh Butter: Choose quality butter for richer flavor and creaminess.
• Reserve Pasta Water: It helps thin the sauce while keeping it silky.
• Garlic Timing: Add garlic last to avoid bitterness from burning.

How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

To enhance your Chicken with Buttered Noodles, try adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. A dusting of grated Parmesan cheese adds a lovely savory finish, or even a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the whole plate.

Side Dishes

This meal pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed asparagus, or roasted carrots. For something heartier, consider serving alongside garlic bread or a simple tomato cucumber salad to balance the buttery richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, twirl the buttered noodles into neat nests on each plate and arrange the sliced chicken on top or beside them. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can elevate the dish for special occasions, making it look just as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken with Buttered Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and noodles together to maintain flavor but reheat gently to preserve texture.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the chicken and noodles separately in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Microwaving is quick but may lead to uneven heating, so stir occasionally for maximum warmth and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and ideal for soaking up the butter sauce, you can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or even wide pappardelle depending on what you have available.

Is chicken thighs a good alternative to chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs add more moisture and flavor due to their higher fat content, but they might require slightly longer cooking times to become tender.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make Chicken with Buttered Noodles dairy-free, use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead of regular butter and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

How can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Add steamed or sautéed vegetables like peas, spinach, or zucchini during the final stages of cooking the noodles to keep them crisp and fresh without overpowering the buttery sauce.

What side dishes complement Chicken with Buttered Noodles best?

Light, fresh sides such as mixed greens salad, roasted vegetables, or a tangy coleslaw work well to balance the rich and creamy noodles, adding both texture and flavor contrast.

Final Thoughts

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is one of those wonderfully simple dishes that hits all the right notes: comforting, quick, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe promises a satisfying and flavorful meal with minimal fuss. Give it a try—you’ll soon discover why it has such a special place in so many kitchens.

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