Healthy Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with silky, buttery noodles, all coated in a savory sauce. This dish is an easy and comforting option for weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. The rich, creamy butter sauce perfectly complements the succulent chicken, creating a satisfying and hearty meal. It’s perfect for those days when you crave something comforting but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have this dish ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the perfect go-to recipe:

• Tender Chicken: The chicken breasts are perfectly seasoned and pan-seared to a golden brown, keeping them juicy and flavorful.

• Buttery Noodles: The noodles are coated in a rich, creamy butter sauce, making them irresistible and comforting.

• Quick and Easy: Made with a few basic ingredients, this dish can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

• Versatile: You can customize the dish with your favorite seasonings, herbs, or vegetables to suit your preferences.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herb)

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).

2. Drain the noodles and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

1. While the noodles are cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).

3. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

3. Make the Buttered Noodles:

1. In the same skillet, add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add the drained noodles to the skillet, tossing them in the buttery garlic mixture until evenly coated. If the noodles seem dry, add a small amount of reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

3. Season the noodles with salt and pepper to taste and toss again to combine.

4. Serve:

1. Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.

2. Plate the buttered noodles and top with the sliced chicken.

3. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and color.

4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

• With a Side Salad: Pair this dish with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing side.

• With Steamed Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots make great sides.

• With Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious butter sauce.

• With Parmesan: A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory finish.

Additional Tips for the Best Chicken with Buttered Noodles:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and high-quality olive oil can significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.

• Chicken Variations: For a juicier option, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil to give the dish a unique flavor twist.

• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the buttered noodles for a little heat.

• For Extra Flavor: A squeeze of lemon juice or zest over the noodles can add a refreshing kick.

Recipe FAQ’s:

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.

2. Can I use skin-on chicken?
Yes, skin-on chicken can be used. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the skin crisps up and the chicken is fully cooked.

3. Can I add cheese to the noodles?
Absolutely! Parmesan or mozzarella would be great additions to the buttered noodles.

4. Can I make this ahead?
You can prep the chicken and noodles separately, then combine and heat before serving.

5. Can I use a different protein?
This recipe works well with turkey or even pork chops if preferred.

How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles

This dish is a complete meal in itself, but pairing it with a few side dishes can elevate the experience. Here are some great options to complement your Chicken with Buttered Noodles:

With a Side Salad:

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the noodles.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta complements the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.

With Steamed or Roasted Vegetables:

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is a healthy and vibrant choice that pairs well with buttery pasta.
• Roasted Carrots or Green Beans: Roasted vegetables with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs add texture and depth.

With Garlic Bread:

• Garlic Bread: A crispy, golden-brown slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the savory butter sauce from the noodles. It’s the ultimate indulgence and pairs wonderfully with the dish.

With Parmesan Cheese:

• Extra Parmesan: A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken and noodles brings an extra layer of umami flavor that everyone will love.

Additional Tips for a Perfect Dish

To make your Chicken with Buttered Noodles even better, try these helpful tips:

• Adjust the Seasoning: Always taste the noodles and chicken before serving and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if desired.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality chicken breast will take this dish from good to great.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken until it’s golden brown on the outside but juicy on the inside. Overcooking can dry it out and detract from the dish’s overall flavor.
• Keep the Noodles Al Dente: For the best texture, make sure the noodles are cooked al dente. Overcooking the noodles can make them too soft and mushy, which will change the balance of flavors and textures.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftovers from this dish can be stored and enjoyed later, making it perfect for meal prep or busy days. Here’s how you can store and reheat it:

Storing:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool before sealing it in the container.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Wrap the chicken and noodles tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags. When reheating, make sure to add a little extra butter or water to rehydrate the noodles and sauce.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat the dish on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little bit of water or butter to bring the sauce back together. Stir gently to ensure the noodles stay creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use any type of pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta.

2. Can I use skin-on chicken?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the skin crisps up nicely while the chicken cooks through.

3. Can I add cheese to the noodles?

Absolutely! Freshly grated Parmesan, mozzarella, or even a bit of ricotta would make great additions to the buttered noodles.

4. Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and noodles separately and combine them before serving. This can help save time during busy weeknights.

5. Can I use a different protein?

This recipe works just as well with turkey or pork chops. You can also substitute the chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and full of flavor. The juicy chicken combined with buttery noodles creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes that everyone at the table will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or preparing a special family meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe Card

Introduction:
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting dish combining juicy chicken with silky noodles in a rich, buttery sauce. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herb)

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz egg noodles (or preferred pasta)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:
   Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions (8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve a little pasta water.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F). Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Buttered Noodles:
   In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil. Once melted, add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add the drained noodles, toss in the garlic-butter mixture, and add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve:
   Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the buttered noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately.

Notes:

• You can use any type of pasta for this dish (spaghetti, fettuccine, etc.).
• Adjust the seasonings to taste, especially if you prefer a bit of heat (add red pepper flakes).
• For a richer flavor, add Parmesan cheese or mozzarella to the noodles.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheated on low heat with a splash of butter or water.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 500 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Potassium: 750mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 500 IU
• Calcium: 120mg
• Iron: 2mg

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Method: Sauté, Boiling
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 500
Yield: 4 servings