Creamy Buttered Noodles with Savory Chicken

Craving a comforting meal that’s both quick and delicious? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Chicken with Buttered Noodles. Picture this: succulent pan-seared chicken nestled on a bed of buttery noodles infused with garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s a dish that’s sure to warm your heart and please your taste buds.

I always turn to this Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe on busy weeknights or lazy weekends—it never fails to hit the spot. The way the Parmesan melts into the noodles, adding a touch of salty richness, is pure magic. Plus, the leftovers are just as satisfying; simply store them in the fridge and reheat with a splash of broth to revitalize those buttery noodles.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or simply want to treat yourself to a plate of happiness, this classic comfort food dish is a winner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or swap the chicken for a plant-based alternative. With its versatility and cozy flavors, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is bound to become a family favorite in no time.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just half an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
• Versatile: Swap chicken breasts for thighs, or try plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
• Long Lasting: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and freeze well for up to two months.
• Family-Friendly: A dish loved by picky eaters and kids, ideal for spoiling loved ones or enjoying a comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Buttered Noodles with Savory Chicken Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just half an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or slow weekends when you’re craving comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, this dish is sure to become a family staple. It’s the perfect meal to spoil your loved ones with.
• Versatile: Swap chicken thighs for breasts or try a plant-based meat for a vegetarian option. You can also use different pasta shapes or add seasonal veggies to customize the dish.
• Make-ahead Friendly: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days and can be frozen for up to two months. Just reheat and enjoy the cozy flavors all over again.
• Comfort Food Classic: Bringing together tender chicken, buttery noodles, garlic, and Parmesan, this dish is the definition of comfort food that warms the heart and soul.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Whether for a casual dinner with friends or a special family meal, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a glass of wine for a cozy evening in.
• European Influence: Inspired by European kitchens, especially in the American Midwest, this recipe offers a nostalgic taste of home-cooked goodness with each bite.

Ingredients for Creamy Buttered Noodles with Savory Chicken

Main

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 8 ounces egg noodles

Sauce and Seasonings

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Pro Tips for Creamy Buttered Noodles with Savory Chicken

Pro Tips:

For extra flavor, try seasoning the chicken with your favorite herbs or spices before searing, such as paprika, thyme, or rosemary.

To prevent the chicken from drying out during reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the noodles before microwaving.

Experiment with different pasta shapes if you don’t have egg noodles on hand. Rotini or spaghetti are great alternatives that work well with the buttery sauce.

If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, swap the chicken for a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a flavorful twist.

How to Make Creamy Buttered Noodles with Savory Chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Cook Chicken

Dry chicken with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken from skillet and allow it to rest.

Step 2: Boil Egg Noodles

Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook egg noodles until al dente following package instructions. Drain noodles, saving 1/4 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Prepare Butter Sauce

Heat skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter, and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth, scrape up browned bits, and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Toss drained egg noodles in the skillet with the butter sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Cut the rested chicken into strips and place them on top of the buttered noodles. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Storage Tips

After preparing and enjoying the delicious Chicken with Buttered Noodles, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of broth or water to rejuvenate the noodles and prevent the chicken from drying out. Be cautious not to overheat in the microwave, as this can lead to the chicken becoming tough.

If you wish to freeze the dish for later enjoyment, assemble the noodles and chicken in a baking dish without adding parsley or Parmesan. Wrap the dish securely and freeze for up to two months. To enjoy later, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat covered in a 350°F oven until hot. Finish by topping with fresh parsley and cheese before serving.

This comforting meal is versatile and can be customized with different pasta shapes, additional vegetables like peas or mushrooms, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or for a casual gathering with friends, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that can be easily stored and reheated for repeated enjoyment.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different protein, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for this recipe. Thighs are juicier and add extra flavor to the dish. You can also opt for plant-based meat as a vegetarian alternative.

While egg noodles are traditional for buttered noodles, you can substitute them with spaghetti or rotini if you don’t have egg noodles on hand. These pasta shapes will also work well with the buttery garlic sauce. Fresh parsley can be swapped for dried Italian parsley, but note that the flavor will be milder with dried herbs.

If you want to make the dish dairy-free, you can omit the butter and use a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, if you prefer to skip the Parmesan cheese, feel free to sprinkle your favorite cheese on top or enjoy the dish without cheese for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning this classic chicken with buttered noodles dish into a cozy baked casserole. Simply layer the cooked buttered noodles at the bottom of a baking dish, top with sliced chicken, sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. This adds a new dimension to the dish while making it perfect for serving a larger crowd or for a special occasion.

Another fun twist is to roll up the buttered noodles and chicken into individual bite-sized bundles, securing them with a toothpick. Serve these elegant noodle rolls as appetizers or as a unique way to present the dish at a dinner party. Drizzle with a lemon butter sauce and garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of sophistication and flavor.

FAQs for Creamy Buttered Noodles with Savory Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, both boneless, skinless thighs and breasts work well. Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor to the final dish.

How should I cook the chicken to ensure it is done just right?

Sear the chicken on medium-high heat until each side is golden and just cooked through. Rest the chicken briefly before slicing to keep it succulent.

Can I substitute egg noodles with a different pasta shape?

Yes, egg noodles are classic for their soft, rich texture, but any pasta shape you like can be substituted in this recipe.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance and reheat it with the noodles later?

Yes, the chicken can be cooked in advance and gently reheated. Toss the noodles and butter just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

In the world of comforting and easy-to-make meals, Chicken with Buttered Noodles truly stands out as a winner. The simplicity of this dish belies its rich and satisfying flavors, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe has got you covered.

Remember, you can always customize this dish to suit your tastes and pantry staples. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, veggies, or even protein options to create your own unique twist on Chicken with Buttered Noodles. And don’t forget to share this delightful recipe with your loved ones – it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. So go ahead, whip up a batch of these buttery noodles with tender chicken and savor every comforting bite!