Introduction:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food dish – simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Imagine tender, juicy chicken, perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden brown, served over a bed of silky, buttery noodles, lightly kissed with garlic and herbs. This recipe is a weeknight savior, a family-pleaser, and a blank canvas for your favorite flavors. It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most delicious.
What makes this chicken with buttered noodles so irresistible? It’s the pure, unadulterated comfort. The buttery noodles are rich and comforting, the chicken is savory and satisfying, and the whole dish comes together quickly and easily. It’s the perfect meal when you’re craving something home-cooked and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can keep it basic or dress it up with extra herbs, cheeses, or vegetables to create your own signature version.
Get ready to enjoy the pure comfort of Chicken with Buttered Noodles – a recipe that is both incredibly easy to make and wonderfully satisfying to eat!
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
To create this classic Chicken with Buttered Noodles, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. These components combine to create a dish that is both simple and deeply satisfying. Having everything measured and ready before you start cooking will make the process smooth and efficient.
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ – 2 pounds) or boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs are more flavorful and forgiving. Choose based on your preference.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil – Oil is used for searing the chicken and cooking the garlic.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder adds a savory and aromatic base to the chicken seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder enhances the savory flavors of the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon paprika – Paprika adds a subtle smoky and slightly sweet note and enhances the color of the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Salt seasons the chicken and enhances the overall flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Black pepper adds a touch of spice and seasons the chicken.
For the Buttered Noodles:
- 1 pound fettuccine noodles (or spaghetti, linguine, egg noodles, or your preferred pasta shape) – Fettuccine is classic for this type of dish, but other pasta shapes work well too.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter – Butter is the star of “buttered noodles,” providing richness and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent and aromatic element to the buttered noodles.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness and a mild herbaceous note.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Seasoning the buttered noodles properly is crucial for flavor.
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for added flavor and richness) – Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich dimension to the buttered noodles.
- Optional: Lemon wedges, for serving (to brighten the dish) – Lemon wedges add a touch of acidity to brighten the richness of the dish.
HOW TO MAKE “Chicken with Buttered Noodles”:
Making Chicken with Buttered Noodles is incredibly straightforward, focusing on simple cooking techniques and fresh flavors. The recipe is broken down into stages: cooking the noodles, preparing the garlic butter sauce, seasoning and cooking the chicken, and then combining everything for a comforting and satisfying meal. Each step is designed for ease and maximum flavor payoff.
The process begins by cooking the noodles according to package directions until perfectly al dente. Cooking the noodles first ensures they are ready when the chicken is cooked.
Next, the garlic butter sauce is made by melting butter in a skillet and sautéing minced garlic until fragrant. This creates the flavorful base for the “buttered” noodles.
Then, the chicken is seasoned with a simple blend of spices and pan-seared in the same skillet (after removing the garlic butter, or in a separate pan) until cooked through and golden brown. Pan-searing creates a flavorful crust on the chicken.
Finally, the cooked noodles are tossed with the garlic butter sauce, fresh parsley, and optional Parmesan cheese, and then topped with the cooked chicken. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a final touch of brightness. Let’s explore the step-by-step instructions to guide you through each stage of this effortless and delicious recipe.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Cook Noodles.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine noodles (or your chosen pasta) and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Reserving pasta water can be helpful for adjusting sauce consistency later if needed.
Drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce.
While the noodles are cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Cook garlic until fragrant, do not brown or burn.
Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Step 3: Season and Cook Chicken.
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix spices evenly for chicken seasoning.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts or thighs evenly with the spice mixture. Ensure chicken is evenly seasoned.
Heat the olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet (use the same skillet used for garlic butter, wiping it clean first, or use a separate skillet) over medium-high heat until it is shimmering hot.
Carefully place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Searing creates a flavorful crust and cooks the chicken through. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken.
To ensure chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, it should reach 165°F (74°C). Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble Chicken with Buttered Noodles.
Add the cooked and drained noodles to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly in the butter sauce. Ensure noodles are well coated with garlic butter.
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and optional grated Parmesan cheese into the buttered noodles. Stir in parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Season the buttered noodles with salt and black pepper to taste. Season noodles with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
Place the cooked chicken breasts or thighs on top of the buttered noodles in the skillet or on individual plates. Arrange chicken over buttered noodles.
Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and buttered noodles before serving. Lemon juice adds brightness to the dish.
Step 5: Serve.
Serve the Chicken with Buttered Noodles hot and enjoy! Serve warm for the best taste and texture.
USEFUL TIPS:
To make your Chicken with Buttered Noodles even more delicious and perfectly comforting, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions can enhance both the flavor and the overall experience of preparing and enjoying this simple yet satisfying dish. Let’s explore some valuable insights to refine your recipe.
Don’t overcook the noodles. Cook pasta until al dente, meaning it is firm to the bite. Overcooked noodles become mushy and less appealing. Follow package directions and test for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time.
Don’t burn the garlic in the garlic butter sauce. Cook garlic over medium heat and only until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and will ruin the flavor of the sauce.
Season the chicken generously. Seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and spices enhances its flavor and makes it more satisfying. Don’t be shy with the seasoning.
For extra flavor in the chicken, you can marinate it briefly before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes can add extra depth of flavor.
Use good quality butter for the buttered noodles. The flavor of the butter really shines in this simple dish, so using a good quality butter will make a difference.
If you want a richer butter sauce, you can use browned butter instead of regular melted butter. Browned butter has a nutty and more complex flavor. To make browned butter, cook butter over medium heat until it melts, then continue to cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Be careful not to burn it.
For added flavor, deglaze the skillet after cooking the chicken with a splash of chicken broth or white wine before making the butter sauce. Deglazing with broth or wine picks up flavorful browned bits from the skillet and adds depth to the sauce.
Add vegetables to the buttered noodles for a more complete meal. Good vegetable additions include sautéed spinach, peas, broccoli florets, or mushrooms. Add vegetables to the noodles while tossing with the butter sauce.
DETAILS:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
The preparation time for Chicken with Buttered Noodles is approximately 15 minutes. This includes the time needed to measure out all ingredients, season the chicken, and prepare the garlic butter sauce. Efficient prep work makes the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
The cooking time for this recipe is around 25 minutes. This encompasses the time to cook the noodles, prepare the garlic butter sauce, and sear the chicken. Cooking time is relatively quick, making it a good option for weeknights.
Total Time: 40 minutes
The total time from start to finish for Chicken with Buttered Noodles is approximately 40 minutes. This includes both the prep time and the cook time, making it a reasonably fast and easy meal option.
Yield: 4 servings
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, depending on portion sizes. It is ideally suited for a family dinner or for feeding a small group. The yield can be easily scaled up or down if you need to serve more or fewer people; simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally. Leftovers are also excellent for reheating.
Category: Main Course, Pasta, Chicken
This dish is categorized as a main course, specifically a pasta and chicken dish. It is substantial and satisfying enough to serve as the central component of a meal, providing both protein and carbohydrates. Chicken and pasta dishes are popular comfort food choices.
Method: Pan-Searing, Boiling
The primary cooking methods used in this recipe are pan-searing (for the chicken) and boiling (for the noodles). Pan-searing creates a flavorful crust on the chicken, while boiling is the standard method for cooking pasta. Combining pan-searing and boiling allows for both flavorful chicken and perfectly cooked noodles.
Cuisine: American, Italian-American Inspired
The cuisine of this recipe is best described as American, with Italian-American inspired elements. Buttered noodles are a simple and comforting American dish, while the use of fettuccine and Parmesan cheese hints at Italian-American influences. Italian-American cuisine often blends Italian techniques with American preferences for simple and hearty dishes.
Diet: Not specified
The diet classification for this recipe is not specifically limited. However, it is not inherently low-fat or low-calorie due to the butter and pasta. It can be modified to be slightly lighter by using less butter, whole wheat pasta, and leaner chicken breasts, although these changes will affect the richness and texture. It is not easily adaptable to vegetarian or vegan diets in its classic form, but variations could be explored.
NOTES:
Serving Suggestions: Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting and versatile dish that can be served on its own or with a variety of side dishes. Serve it hot immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the buttered noodles. Steamed or roasted green vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add color and nutrition. Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any extra butter sauce. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch. Lemon wedges are highly recommended for serving to brighten the dish.
Make it Ahead: While Chicken with Buttered Noodles is best served fresh, some components can be prepped ahead to save time, especially for busy weeknights.
* Cook chicken ahead (not recommended for best texture): You can cook the chicken ahead of time and reheat it. However, pan-seared chicken is best served fresh for optimal texture and crispness. Reheating may slightly dry out the chicken. If making ahead, store cooked chicken separately from the noodles.
* Prepare garlic butter sauce ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet before tossing with the cooked noodles. The garlic butter sauce can be made a day ahead and reheated.
* Cook noodles fresh (recommended): It’s best to cook the noodles fresh just before serving to prevent them from becoming sticky or mushy. Cooking noodles fresh is recommended for best texture.
Reheating Leftovers: Leftovers of Chicken with Buttered Noodles can be reheated, although the noodles may absorb some of the butter sauce and become softer upon reheating. For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the noodle texture may be less ideal. Reheating in a skillet is preferred for better texture.
Pasta Variation: Feel free to use different types of pasta shapes based on your preference and what you have on hand for Chicken with Buttered Noodles.
* Spaghetti or Linguine: These long strands of pasta are classic and work beautifully with butter sauces. Spaghetti and linguine are good classic pasta options.
* Egg Noodles: Egg noodles offer a richer and more tender texture and are a classic comfort food pairing with chicken and butter. Egg noodles provide a richer, softer texture.
* Penne or Rotini: Short pasta shapes like penne or rotini can also be used for a different texture and presentation. Short pasta shapes offer a different texture variation.
* Orecchiette or Cavatelli: These pasta shapes with ridges and cups are excellent at capturing butter sauce and creating a delicious bite. Shaped pasta with ridges and cups are great for sauce.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I add cream to the butter sauce for a creamier sauce?
Yes, you can absolutely add cream to the butter sauce for Chicken with Buttered Noodles to create a richer and creamier version, moving closer to an Alfredo-style sauce. To make a creamier butter sauce:
* Add Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: After sautéing the garlic and removing the skillet from the heat (Step 2), stir in ½ cup to 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the garlic butter sauce.
* Simmer Sauce (optional): Return the skillet to low heat and simmer the cream sauce for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow it to thicken slightly. Simmering cream sauce thickens it slightly.
* Add Parmesan Cheese (recommended for creamy sauce): For a creamy Alfredo-inspired sauce, definitely include Parmesan cheese. Stir in ¼ cup to ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce until melted and smooth. Parmesan cheese is essential for a creamy Alfredo style sauce.
* Toss with Noodles and Chicken: Proceed with Step 4, tossing the cooked noodles with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and topping with the cooked chicken. Adding cream and Parmesan creates a creamier Alfredo-like sauce for the noodles and chicken.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Making Chicken with Buttered Noodles vegetarian requires substituting the chicken with a plant-based protein and ensuring all other ingredients are vegetarian. To make it vegetarian:
* Vegetarian Protein Substitute: Use vegetarian chicken substitutes such as pan-seared or grilled tofu, tempeh, or commercially prepared vegetarian chicken strips or cutlets. Season vegetarian protein substitutes similarly to chicken.
* Vegetable Additions (to replace chicken heartiness): Add roasted or sautéed vegetables to the buttered noodles to make the dish more substantial and flavorful. Good vegetable additions include roasted broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. Roasted or sautéed vegetables add flavor and heartiness to vegetarian version.
* Vegetarian Parmesan Cheese (check label): If using Parmesan cheese, ensure it is vegetarian Parmesan cheese, as traditional Parmesan cheese is made with animal rennet. Vegetarian Parmesan cheese is available, check labels.
* Vegetable Broth (if deglazing skillet): If deglazing the skillet after cooking vegetarian protein, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Use vegetable broth for deglazing if needed.
* Buttered Noodles Base Remains Vegetarian: The buttered noodles base itself is already vegetarian, making it a good base for vegetarian modifications.
Can I add white wine to the butter sauce?
Yes, adding dry white wine to the butter sauce for Chicken with Buttered Noodles can elevate the flavor and add a touch of sophistication! To add white wine to the butter sauce:
* Add White Wine After Garlic: After sautéing the garlic in butter in Step 2, pour in ¼ cup to ½ cup of dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay) into the skillet.
* Simmer Wine to Reduce: Increase heat slightly and let the white wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate its flavor. Simmering wine reduces it and concentrates flavor.
* Proceed with Butter Sauce: Continue with the recipe from Step 2, tossing the cooked noodles with the white wine garlic butter sauce and adding parsley and Parmesan cheese as desired. White wine adds acidity and complexity to the butter sauce. White wine pairs especially well with garlic and butter flavors.
What vegetables go well with Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
Chicken with Buttered Noodles pairs well with a variety of simple and fresh vegetables, offering a nice balance to the richness of the buttered noodles. Good vegetable pairings include:
* Steamed or Roasted Broccoli: Broccoli is a classic and healthy vegetable side that pairs well with buttery pasta dishes. Steamed or roasted broccoli is a good, simple side.
* Steamed or Sautéed Green Beans: Green beans are another simple and versatile side vegetable that complements chicken and buttered noodles. Green beans are versatile and easy to prepare.
* Sautéed Spinach or Asparagus: Sautéed spinach or asparagus can be added directly to the buttered noodles or served as a side dish. Spinach and asparagus are quick-cooking and nutritious.
* Peas (stirred into noodles or served on side): Frozen peas can be quickly stirred into the buttered noodles during the last minute of cooking or served as a simple side. Peas add sweetness and color and cook quickly.
* Side Salad (garden salad or Caesar salad): A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette or a Caesar salad provides a refreshing and lighter contrast to the richness of the main dish. Salad provides a lighter, refreshing counterpoint.
Can I use chicken broth instead of butter for a lighter sauce?
While butter is key to “buttered noodles”, you can create a lighter sauce for Chicken with Buttered Noodles by using chicken broth as a base instead of all or part of the butter. To make a lighter chicken broth-based sauce:
* Reduce Butter Amount: Reduce the amount of butter significantly, using only 1-2 tablespoons for flavor and sautéing the garlic. Reduce butter for a lighter sauce.
* Use Chicken Broth as Sauce Base: Instead of all butter, use about ½ cup to 1 cup of chicken broth as the base of the sauce. Add chicken broth to the skillet after sautéing the garlic.
* Simmer Broth and Garlic: Simmer the chicken broth and garlic in the skillet for a few minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavor. Simmering broth reduces and concentrates flavor.
* Season Broth Sauce: Season the chicken broth sauce with salt, pepper, parsley, and optional Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season broth sauce similarly to butter sauce.
* Toss with Noodles and Chicken: Toss the cooked noodles with the chicken broth-based garlic sauce and top with the cooked chicken. Using chicken broth creates a significantly lighter sauce compared to butter, but will still be flavorful with garlic and herbs.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
To store leftover Chicken with Buttered Noodles properly and maintain its quality, follow these guidelines:
Cool Completely: Allow the chicken and buttered noodles to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Storing warm food can create condensation inside the container, potentially affecting the texture and food safety. Do not leave cooked chicken and noodles at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Separate Storage (Recommended for Best Texture): For best results in maintaining texture, especially of the noodles, store the cooked chicken and buttered noodles separately in airtight containers. Storing separately prevents noodles from becoming too soft in the sauce.
Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled chicken and buttered noodles (separately if possible) to airtight containers. Well-sealed containers are essential to prevent the chicken and noodles from drying out, absorbing odors from the refrigerator, and maintaining freshness. Use containers with tight-fitting lids.
Refrigerate Promptly: Refrigerate the airtight containers of leftover chicken and buttered noodles promptly after cooling. Refrigerate at or below 40°F (4°C) to maintain food safety and prevent spoilage. Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.
Storage Duration (Refrigerator): Chicken with Buttered Noodles can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For best quality and flavor, consume leftovers within the first 2-3 days. Pasta dishes with chicken are generally best enjoyed sooner rather than later for optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating Instructions:
For reheating leftover Chicken with Buttered Noodles, skillet or microwave reheating are both suitable, with skillet generally recommended for better texture, especially of the noodles:
- Skillet Reheating (Recommended for Best Texture): Reheat the buttered noodles in a skillet over medium-low heat with a tablespoon or two of butter or olive oil and a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Heat gently, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the noodles are warmed and slightly softened. Reheat the chicken separately in the same skillet or a separate skillet, or in the oven if desired, until heated through. Skillet reheating helps to revive the noodle texture and heat the chicken evenly.
- Microwave Reheating (Convenient for Single Servings): Place a portion of the chicken and buttered noodles on a microwave-safe plate, add a tablespoon of water or broth to moisten it, cover loosely with microwave-safe lid or paper towel, and microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, checking and stirring in between, until heated through. Microwave reheating is quicker and convenient, especially for single servings, but the noodle texture may be less ideal and chicken can sometimes dry out if overheated. Reheat in short intervals and check frequently.
RELATED RECIPES
If you enjoyed this comforting Chicken with Buttered Noodles, you will surely love these other easy and satisfying chicken and pasta recipes:
Chicken Alfredo (Classic Creamy Pasta Dish): Fettuccine pasta tossed in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce with Parmesan cheese and often with grilled or pan-seared chicken. Offers a classic creamy Alfredo chicken pasta dish.
Lemon Chicken Pasta (Bright and Flavorful): Pasta tossed with lemon butter sauce, chicken, capers, and often spinach or artichokes, bright and tangy. Offers a lighter lemon-flavored chicken pasta.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta (Simple and Flavorful): Pasta tossed with a garlic Parmesan sauce, chicken, and often herbs like basil or oregano, simple and flavorful. Offers another garlic Parmesan flavored chicken pasta.
Chicken Tetrazzini (Creamy Baked Casserole): A creamy baked casserole with chicken, mushrooms, peas, and noodles in a cheesy cream sauce, a comforting baked pasta casserole. Offers a baked creamy chicken pasta casserole.
Chicken Scampi with Linguine (Garlicky and Lemony): Linguine pasta tossed with a garlicky lemon butter sauce, shrimp (or chicken), white wine, and red pepper flakes, a garlicky and flavorful pasta dish. Offers a garlicky and lemony chicken pasta inspired by shrimp scampi.
CONCLUSION
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a recipe that truly embodies the essence of simple comfort food. From the tender, perfectly seasoned chicken to the silky, garlic-infused buttered noodles, every element of this dish is designed to create a meal that is both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare. It’s the perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights, relaxed family dinners, or anytime you want a classic, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe beautifully balances simplicity of preparation with deeply rewarding flavors and textures, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The readily available ingredients and clear, step-by-step instructions mean that anyone can confidently create this comforting Chicken with Buttered Noodles at home. Whether you are a seasoned home cook looking for a reliable and always-a-hit weeknight dinner recipe or a beginner cook wanting to master a classic and comforting meal without complicated techniques, you can achieve chicken and buttered noodle perfection with this recipe.
So gather your ingredients, boil your noodles, sear your chicken, and prepare to indulge in the tender, savory, buttery, garlicky, and utterly delightful goodness of this Chicken with Buttered Noodles masterpiece. Enjoy the simple cooking process and the immense pleasure of sharing this truly comforting and family-friendly meal with your loved ones. This is one recipe that is destined to become a cherished staple in your dinner repertoire, a beloved classic that you’ll return to again and again for its simple comfort, crowd-pleasing flavors, and undeniable ability to bring smiles to faces around your table. You’ll be declaring Chicken with Buttered Noodles your new favorite way to enjoy chicken and pasta in a perfectly simple and utterly satisfying way!
