Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the perfect dish for those busy weeknights when you want something quick, comforting, and delicious. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken paired with perfectly cooked egg noodles, all enveloped in a rich butter and garlic sauce. With a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish is as easy as it is flavorful. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served as a family dinner or even as a comforting meal to entertain guests. The buttery, garlicky goodness will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe is simple to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.

2. Flavorful

With the richness of butter, the aromatic garlic, and the savory Parmesan cheese, this dish is packed with flavor, yet it doesn’t require a long list of ingredients.

3. Comforting

The combination of juicy chicken and buttery noodles is the ultimate comfort food, satisfying cravings for something warm and filling.

4. One-Pan Meal

This recipe uses just one skillet for the chicken and noodles, making cleanup a breeze. Fewer dishes mean more time to relax and enjoy your meal.

5. Versatile

Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add extra ingredients like vegetables or herbs to suit your taste. This dish works well with a variety of side dishes and sauces.

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Ingredients

• Chicken breast
• Egg noodles
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Variations

• Add Veggies: Add some sautéed spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: For a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Different Cheese: Swap out Parmesan for other cheeses like Romano or Pecorino for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the butter for a fragrant twist.
• Creamy Version: Stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese with the butter for a richer, creamier sauce.

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How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

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

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through.

Step 5: Slice the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Noodles

Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and add the cooked noodles. Toss everything together to combine, making sure the noodles are well-coated in the buttery garlic sauce.

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Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chicken Breasts: Make sure to not overcook the chicken. Check for doneness by slicing the thickest part to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
• Noodle Cooking: Be careful not to overcook the noodles; they should be al dente for the best texture.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the dish. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a combination of butter and olive oil.
• Flavor Enhancements: For extra depth, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of chicken broth when tossing the noodles with the chicken.
• Resting the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking so that the juices redistribute, keeping it tender and moist.

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How to Serve

This Chicken with Buttered Noodles is delicious on its own or served with a side salad and some garlic bread. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables or a light green vegetable like broccoli for a well-rounded meal. For an added touch, garnish with a little extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley.

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Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken with Buttered Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a small amount of butter to keep the noodles moist.

Freezing

While this dish can be frozen, the texture of the noodles may change once thawed. If you plan to freeze leftovers, store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop, adding a bit of butter to restore the richness.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little butter to prevent the noodles from drying out.

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FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well for this recipe. They’re more flavorful and juicy but will require a longer cooking time.

2. Can I make this with whole wheat noodles?

Yes, whole wheat noodles are a great alternative to regular egg noodles. They’ll add more fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor.

3. How can I make this dish healthier?

To make this dish healthier, you can use less butter and opt for a lower-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli to increase the nutritional value.

4. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.

5. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Frozen chicken breasts can be used, but they should be fully thawed before cooking for the best texture. If cooking from frozen, adjust the cooking time accordingly.

6. Can I make this in advance?

While this recipe is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and reheat it with the noodles just before serving.

7. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

9. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free noodles to make this dish gluten-free. Just be sure to check that your butter and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free as well.

10. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers, though the texture of the noodles may change after thawing. Make sure to store in a freezer-safe container and reheat gently.

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Conclusion

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a timeless, comforting dish that combines simplicity with deliciousness. With its easy preparation and rich, buttery flavor, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy the tender chicken, the buttery noodles, and the touch of Parmesan for a meal that’s as flavorful as it is comforting!

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