Buttered Noodles & Chicken

Introduction

Buttered Noodles & Chicken is the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared to perfection and served over a bed of buttery, garlic-infused noodles. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also delivers a rich, creamy taste that is sure to please everyone at the table.

I first made this dish when I was in the mood for something comforting, and it instantly became a favorite. The combination of the juicy chicken and the indulgent, buttery noodles is pure heaven, and the garlic adds an extra depth of flavor that makes every bite delicious. You can easily tweak it by adding veggies or herbs, but it’s just as satisfying when kept simple.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is perfect for any occasion. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, making it a go-to for comfort food lovers.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family meals
• Meal prep
• Comfort food cravings
• Chicken and pasta lovers

Why You’ll Love This Buttered Noodles & Chicken

Here’s why Buttered Noodles & Chicken will become your new go-to dish:

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to make, with just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Creamy, Buttery Flavor: The buttery noodles, combined with a touch of garlic and Parmesan, create a rich, indulgent flavor that perfectly complements the chicken.
• Tender, Juicy Chicken: The chicken breasts are seared to golden brown perfection, remaining juicy and flavorful with every bite.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs, veggies, or cheese to personalize the dish to your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a family-friendly option everyone will enjoy.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Buttered Noodles & Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (more to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (more to taste)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and remain juicy when properly seared, making them the perfect protein for this dish.
• Butter: The butter is key to making the noodles rich and flavorful, creating a smooth, satisfying texture that complements the chicken.
• Garlic: Adds depth of flavor and a savory kick that enhances the overall dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami-packed richness to the noodles that elevates the entire meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Buttered Noodles & Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the pan is 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). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

Prepare the Noodles:

2. Boil the Noodles: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, about 7-9 minutes. Drain the noodles, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
3. Make the Buttered Noodles: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Add the drained noodles to the pot, tossing them in the garlic butter until fully coated. If the noodles seem dry, add a little reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

4. Slice the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces.
5. Assemble the Dish: Divide the buttery noodles between four plates. Top with the sliced chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.

How to Serve Buttered Noodles & Chicken

Buttered Noodles & Chicken is a versatile meal that can be served in various ways:

• With a Salad: Serve with a side salad of mixed greens, dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar, to balance the richness of the noodles.
• As a Comfort Meal: This dish is perfect for a cozy evening in, paired with a glass of white wine or a comforting beverage.
• With Garlic Bread: Add a side of garlic bread to make the meal even more indulgent and satisfying.
• For Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can easily be reheated for lunch or dinner.

Additional Tips for Buttered Noodles & Chicken

Here are some tips to ensure your Buttered Noodles & Chicken are perfect every time:

• Season the Chicken Well: Don’t skimp on the seasoning for the chicken, as it’s essential to building flavor throughout the dish.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic brings more flavor to the dish than pre-minced garlic, giving the noodles a fragrant, savory taste.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The pasta water is starchy and can help loosen the noodles if they seem too dry, making for a smoother sauce.
• Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, consider adding sautéed spinach, broccoli, or peas to the noodles.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan has more flavor and melts better into the noodles than pre-grated options.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can become dry if overcooked, so make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.

Recipe Variations for Buttered Noodles & Chicken

Here are 5 variations you can try for Buttered Noodles & Chicken:

• Chicken Alfredo: Add heavy cream and more Parmesan cheese to the buttered noodles for a creamy Alfredo-style dish.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: Add lemon zest and juice to the garlic butter for a bright, tangy twist.
• Chicken and Mushroom Buttered Noodles: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for an earthy flavor.
• Spicy Buttered Noodles & Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused Chicken: Marinate the chicken in fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or basil) before searing for a fragrant variation.

Freezing and Storage for Buttered Noodles & Chicken

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked noodles and chicken separately for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding extra butter if needed.
• Storage: Leftover Buttered Noodles & Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of butter or pasta water to keep the noodles moist.

Special Equipment for Buttered Noodles & Chicken

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Buttered Noodles & Chicken easier:

• Large Skillet: A large skillet is essential for searing the chicken and making the garlic butter sauce.
• Large Pot: Use a large pot to cook the noodles and make the buttered sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients like butter, olive oil, and Parmesan.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Frequently Asked Questions for Buttered Noodles & Chicken

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They will have a slightly different flavor and texture but are equally delicious.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep the chicken and noodles ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and serve the dish fresh for the best taste and texture.
3. Can I use gluten-free noodles? Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just be sure to cook them according to the package instructions.
4. What can I serve with this dish? A fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread would complement this meal perfectly.
5. Can I add vegetables to the dish? Yes, feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas to the noodles for added flavor and nutrition.

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Conclusion

Buttered Noodles & Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With tender chicken, buttery noodles, and a touch of garlic and Parmesan, this dish is sure to please. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or a more indulgent weekend meal, it’s a recipe that delivers every time.

This dish is as easy to make as it is delicious, perfect for when you’re craving something comforting without a lot of fuss. The combination of savory chicken and rich, buttery noodles makes for a meal that’s both filling and satisfying.

I’d love to see how your Buttered Noodles & Chicken turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!