Introduction
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender strips of seasoned chicken with rich, buttery noodles enhanced by Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner with family, this recipe brings together classic comfort food elements that are easy to prepare and customize.
Overview of the Recipe
This dish revolves around a balanced combination of juicy chicken and creamy noodles. The chicken is seasoned and seared to perfection, while the noodles are coated in butter and Parmesan, creating a rich, savory base. With a cooking time of just 20 minutes, it’s a versatile recipe suitable for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
History and Origin
Chicken with Buttered Noodles has its roots in European and American cuisine, where buttered noodles have long been a comforting side dish. Adding chicken makes it a complete meal. Its simplicity and universal appeal have made it a staple in home kitchens, particularly in the United States, where quick and hearty meals are often a priority.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Noodles:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken strips with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed for a consistent flavor.
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken strips to the skillet in a single layer.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and thoroughly cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering it to keep warm.
2. Cook the Noodles
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water for flavor.
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions (typically 8–10 minutes).
- Drain the noodles using a colander and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Buttered Noodles
- Using the same pot that cooked the noodles, melt 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter has melted, return the drained noodles to the pot.
- Toss the noodles gently to ensure they are evenly coated in the melted butter.
4. Add Parmesan and Chicken Broth
- Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth to add moisture and enhance the flavor.
- Sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles.
- Stir the mixture until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Taste the noodles and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine and Serve
- Slice the cooked chicken into smaller pieces if desired.
- Add the chicken to the pot with the buttered noodles.
- Gently toss everything together to combine the flavors.
- Transfer the dish to serving plates or a large bowl.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness (optional).
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Chicken with Buttered Noodles pairs well with a variety of sides, including:
- Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, or asparagus add a fresh, crunchy contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Complements the buttery noodles with a crisp texture.
- Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
For beverages, consider serving this dish with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing contrast.
Variations of the Recipe
- Herb-Infused Buttered Noodles: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano to the butter for extra flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded mozzarella or Gouda cheese for an ultra-creamy version.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Whole-Grain Noodles: Use whole-wheat egg noodles for a healthier alternative.
Health Benefits Notes
- Lean Protein: Chicken breast provides a high amount of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- Moderation in Fats: Butter and olive oil contribute to the dish’s flavor, but moderation ensures it remains a balanced meal.
- Rich in Calcium: Parmesan cheese adds calcium, which is important for bone health.
- Customizable Nutritional Value: By incorporating whole-grain noodles or adding vegetables, this dish can become even more nutrient-dense.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with any pasta like fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
The chicken and noodles can be cooked separately in advance. Combine and reheat just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a delightful recipe that’s both comforting and easy to make. Its creamy noodles and flavorful chicken make it a family favorite. Whether served as a quick dinner or a centerpiece for a gathering, this dish is sure to satisfy. With its customizable options and versatile pairings, it can fit a variety of dietary preferences and occasions. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic meal!
PrintChicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe combines tender chicken strips with buttery egg noodles and Parmesan cheese for a creamy, savory dish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (sliced into strips)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chicken until golden and cooked through, then set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: Boil egg noodles as per package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare Buttered Noodles: Melt butter in the pot, toss noodles in butter.
- Combine Ingredients: Add chicken broth and Parmesan to noodles, stir until creamy. Add cooked chicken and toss to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning as needed for a balanced flavor.
- Whole-wheat noodles can be used for a healthier version.
- Add sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Chicken noodle recipe, Buttered noodles with chicken, Creamy chicken noodles, Easy chicken pasta recipe