As I stirred the golden strands of noodles in a buttery embrace, the scent of garlic wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my childhood home. Buttered Noodles & Chicken is a dish that defines comfort; it’s an uncomplicated yet heartwarming meal, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. What I love most is how easy it is to make—great for busy evenings—and its delightful customizability, offering endless possibilities to incorporate your favorite herbs or veggies. Whether you choose classic egg noodles or switch it up with fettuccine, every bite is a reminder that home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated to be satisfying. Are you ready to create your own warm bowl of nostalgia?
Why Is This Dish a Must-Try?
Comforting Simplicity: The straightforward preparation makes this dish accessible for chefs of all skill levels—perfect for busy weeknights!
Endless Customization: Choose from various noodles like egg noodles or fettuccine and add your favorite vegetables for a personalized twist.
Rich, Flavorful Experience: The buttery garlic noodles paired with succulent chicken create a delightful combination that warms the soul, much like the Cream Cheese Chicken you loved as a kid.
Time-Saving Option: Using rotisserie chicken can cut down meal prep time significantly, making it a breeze for those hectic evenings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering! Why not add a side of Chicken Alfredo Monkey bread to take it to the next level?
Buttered Noodles & Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish, providing juicy protein; feel free to use chicken thighs for a richer taste.
• Olive Oil – Essential for cooking the chicken; any neutral oil works too to keep it simple.
• Salt & Pepper – Basic seasonings that elevate the flavors; adjust to your liking for the best taste.
• Dried Thyme (Optional) – Adds a lovely herbaceous note; fresh thyme can enhance the flavor even more.
For the Noodles
• Egg Noodles – The classic choice for a comforting texture; substitute with spaghetti or fettuccine if you prefer.
• Unsalted Butter – Delivers that rich, buttery flavor; olive oil can be a lighter alternative if desired.
• Garlic Cloves – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; garlic powder is a convenient substitute if fresh isn’t handy.
• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkled on top for creaminess and a savory kick; Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for variety.
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley (Optional) – Adds a vibrant touch and brightness to the dish; feel free to skip if you like it simple!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttered Noodles & Chicken
Step 1: Cook Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente, typically around 6–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, then drain the noodles well and set them aside in a colander while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
While the noodles are cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and optional dried thyme for added flavor. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes.
Step 3: Make Buttered Noodles
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, reduce the heat to low and melt the unsalted butter. As the butter melts, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn. Now, add the drained noodles to the skillet and toss them to coat evenly in the buttery garlic mixture, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary to achieve a creamier texture.
Step 4: Assemble
After the chicken has rested, slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces. Serve the buttery noodles on plates and top them with the freshly sliced chicken. For an extra burst of flavor, generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Your comforting Buttered Noodles & Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed!
Make Ahead Options
These Buttered Noodles & Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time on busy weeknights, you can cook the chicken and noodles up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season and cook the chicken, then let it cool before slicing and refrigerating it in an airtight container. For the noodles, cook and toss them with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, then store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes), and add the noodles to the pan with some butter and garlic to finish them off. This way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting flavors with minimal effort and time!
How to Store and Freeze Buttered Noodles & Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the noodles are well-coated in butter to prevent them from drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Consider freezing the chicken and noodles separately to maintain texture.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge. Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a little butter or pasta water to revive the creaminess of the buttered noodles.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking the noodles. This makes dinner preparation even quicker!
What to Serve with Easy Chicken with Buttered Noodles
When you’re ready to elevate your comforting chicken and buttery noodles into a complete meal, consider these delightful pairings.
- Fresh Side Salad: A crisp arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets bring both color and nutrients, balancing the creamy noodles with crunch and healthiness.
- Garlic Bread: This classic pairing enhances the dining experience, allowing everyone to savor the buttery goodness of both dishes.
- Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the savory chicken, while the caramelized edges provide delicious texture and flavor.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs ties in the buttery notes, ensuring every forkful is a hearty and satisfying delight.
- Red Wine: A smooth Pinot Noir or Merlot pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the dish while making for a cozy dinner atmosphere.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy dressing gives a delightful tang, offering a cool crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the warm, comforting noodles.
Expert Tips for Buttered Noodles & Chicken
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Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for juicy, tender results. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
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Flavorful Noodles: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can help coat the noodles without them sticking together.
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Garlic Awesomeness: Sauté garlic over low heat to prevent burning. This keeps the flavors mild and aromatic, enhancing your buttered noodles without any bitterness.
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Timing is Key: Toss the cooked noodles in butter immediately after draining. This prevents the noodles from clumping while ensuring they absorb that rich, buttery flavor.
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Endless Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix and match noodles or add veggies like peas or spinach. This way, your buttered noodles & chicken remains exciting and versatile!
Buttered Noodles & Chicken Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta to enjoy the same comforting flavors without the gluten.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach to add nutritional value and color to your meal. A handful of peas or sautéed bell peppers can also bring freshness.
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Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker option, shred rotisserie chicken and toss it in with the noodles—perfect for those jam-packed weeknights!
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Creamy Twist: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the noodles for a decadent creamy sauce that’s downright irresistible.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting burst of heat that balances the savory buttery noodles perfectly.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of parsley for an aromatic flavor profile that will elevate your dish further.
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Cheesy Goodness: Swap out Parmesan for creamy goat cheese or a sharp cheddar to create an entirely new flavor experience.
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Asian Fusion: Experiment by adding soy sauce and sesame oil to your buttered noodles for an Asian-inspired twist that complements the chicken beautifully.
With so many possibilities, each time you create this dish can be a unique experience. The fragrant, buttery noodles remind me of memories spent around the dinner table, much like those from my comforting Chicken Pot Pie days! Explore these variations and bring your own flavor to every delicious bite.
Buttered Noodles & Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of noodles should I use for Buttered Noodles & Chicken?
Absolutely, you can use various types of noodles! While egg noodles are the classic choice for their texture and comfort, you can easily swap them for spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Each noodle brings its unique character to the dish, so feel free to choose your favorite!
How should I store leftovers of Buttered Noodles & Chicken?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend making sure the noodles are well-coated in butter to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or a bit more butter to revive the dish’s creaminess!
Can I freeze Buttered Noodles & Chicken?
Certainly! You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze the chicken and noodles separately to maintain their textures. Just make sure both components are in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw the chicken and noodles overnight in the fridge, then warm them together in a skillet, adding a little extra butter or pasta water for smoothness.
What should I do if my chicken turns out dry?
To ensure juicy chicken, always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you find that your chicken is dry, try cooking it with a bit of broth or adding it to your noodles to soak up some moisture. If you’re in a pinch, serving it with a creamy sauce or extra butter sauce can also help bring back that juicy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Great question! This recipe can easily be customized to fit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. If you’re looking for a lower-fat variation, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil or use skinless chicken. Additionally, those with dairy allergies can leave out the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version. Always ensure to check labels if you’re using pre-packaged items for allergens.
How long does it take to prepare Buttered Noodles & Chicken?
This delightful dish is quick to whip up, taking approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. If you’re in a hurry, consider using rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time even further!
Buttered Noodles & Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, 6–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the drained noodles and toss to coat.
- Slice the rested chicken and serve over the buttery noodles. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley if desired.
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