Introduction
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. With its tender chicken and rich, buttery noodles, this meal is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. It’s simple to prepare and sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
For the Buttered Noodles:
– 8 ounces egg noodles (or pasta of your choice)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
– Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs (if using).
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
– Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Cook the Noodles:
– In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
– Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
– Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
– While the noodles are still warm, add the butter to the pot and stir until melted.
– Season with salt to taste and mix well to ensure the noodles are well coated.
3. Serve:
– Divide the buttered noodles among plates.
– Top with sliced chicken.
– Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Enjoy this delightful dish that seamlessly combines the flavors of savory chicken and buttery noodles, making every moment at the dinner table a little more special.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
– Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs (if using).
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
– Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Cook the Noodles:
– In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
– Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
– Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
– While the noodles are still warm, add the butter to the pot and stir until melted.
– Season with salt to taste and mix well to ensure the noodles are well coated.
Serve:
– Divide the buttered noodles among plates.
– Top with sliced chicken.
– Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
Cooking Tips:
– Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for more even cooking results.
– Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature for safety.
Noodle Cooking:
– To prevent sticking, stir the noodles occasionally while cooking.
– Add a splash of olive oil to the noodle pot after draining if needed to keep them from clumping.
Substitutions:
– Any type of pasta can be used instead of egg noodles for variety.
– Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on personal preference, adding more herbs or spices as desired.
Storage:
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
– Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little butter or water to prevent drying out.
Cook techniques
Seasoning the Chicken
Properly seasoning the chicken is essential for enhancing its flavor. Use a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs to create a flavorful crust on the chicken as it cooks.
Searing
Searing the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil helps to lock in moisture and develop a golden-brown color. Ensure the skillet is preheated to achieve the best results.
Resting the Chicken
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken breast.
Cooking Noodles
When cooking noodles, always use a large pot of salted water. This enhances the pasta’s flavor and helps to prevent it from sticking together.
Melting Butter
Add butter to the warm noodles while they are still in the pot. This allows the butter to melt evenly and coat the noodles, creating a rich flavor.
Garnishing
Garnishing the dish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese adds a touch of color and extra flavor, making the meal visually appealing and delicious.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute. They are more flavorful and tender, but cook times may vary slightly.
What type of pasta can I substitute for egg noodles?
You can use any type of pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, in place of egg noodles.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta options and be sure to check your chicken seasoning for any hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! You can add cooked vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or bell peppers to the buttered noodles for added nutrition and color.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor, perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken paired with buttery noodles, it delivers comfort and satisfaction that both kids and adults will love. It’s a quick meal to prepare and can easily become a family favorite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Enhance the chicken by adding minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese while cooking. Serve it over a bed of spinach for a nutritious twist.
Lemon Herb Chicken
Marinate the chicken in lemon juice, zest, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme before cooking for a refreshing flavor profile.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Swap the buttered noodles for fettuccine and create a creamy Alfredo sauce with heavy cream, cheese, and garlic for a hearty meal.
Vegetable Stir-Fry Noodles
Add your choice of vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, to the noodles for added nutrition and color.
Italian Chicken Skillet
Incorporate diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives into the skillet while cooking the chicken for a Mediterranean flair.
Spicy Asian Noodles
Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha to the buttered noodles for a spicy Asian-inspired twist, and serve with sliced chicken on top.
