Looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the perfect weeknight dinner when you need comfort food without a lot of fuss. This classic dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a silky butter sauce that’s both kid-friendly and sophisticated enough for adults.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can dress it up with fresh herbs and parmesan cheese or keep it basic for picky eaters. It also stores well for leftovers, making it ideal for busy families looking to plan meals ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken with Buttered Noodles takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- The recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients while delivering rich comfort food flavor the whole family will enjoy.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to three days, perfect for meal planning and quick reheating.
Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe Overview
This classic comfort dish combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked noodles in a buttery sauce. The recipe is straightforward yet versatile, allowing for customization based on preferences and available ingredients.
Choosing Your Ingredients
Selecting quality ingredients makes a significant difference in this simple dish. For the protein, both chicken breasts and chicken thighs work well. Breasts offer leaner meat, while thighs provide more flavor and moisture.
For noodles, traditional egg noodles are ideal with their slight chew and ability to hold the buttery sauce. Those needing a gluten-free option can substitute with rice noodles or other gluten-free pasta varieties.
The sauce relies heavily on unsalted butter, allowing you to control the salt level. Use at least 4 tablespoons for four servings. Adding a splash of cream creates a richer sauce.
Aromatics and seasonings should include:
- 2-3 cloves of minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives
- Optional Parmesan cheese for finishing
Preparation and Cooking Steps
The dish comes together in about 30 minutes total, with prep time taking 10 minutes and cook time around 20 minutes. Many versions can be made as a one-pan meal for easier cleanup.
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and any desired spices. Cook in olive oil until a golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and set aside.
Cook noodles according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente. For the buttery sauce, melt butter in a pan, add minced garlic, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toss the drained noodles in the butter sauce until they achieve a silky, creamy consistency. Slice the chicken and add it back to the pan, mixing gently with the buttery noodles.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. The meal works beautifully as a standalone dinner or with simple sides.
Popular accompaniments include:
- Garlic bread for soaking up extra sauce
- Side salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- Roasted vegetables such as carrots or Brussels sprouts
For beverages, light options complement the richness of the dish. Try iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with lemon.
To create healthier options, use less butter, incorporate more veggies like spinach or peas, and choose whole-grain noodles. This adaptability makes the recipe suitable for various dietary preferences.
Nutritional Insights and Benefits
Chicken with buttered noodles offers a balance of macronutrients while providing essential vitamins and minerals. This simple dish can be modified to meet various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Understanding Macronutrients
Chicken with buttered noodles delivers a balanced macronutrient profile. A typical serving (1 cup) contains approximately 400-450 calories, making it a moderate calorie meal option.
The protein content is substantial, with chicken providing about 25-30g per serving. This helps with muscle maintenance and promotes satiety.
Carbohydrates from the noodles supply around 40-45g per serving, offering energy for daily activities. The dish contains about 15-20g of fat, primarily from the butter.
For a family of four, this meal can be prepared with minimal ingredients while staying budget-friendly at roughly $10-12 total.
Exploring Health Benefits
Chicken provides high-quality protein that supports muscle growth and repair. It’s also rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin and B6, which help with energy metabolism.
The dish delivers iron, zinc, and selenium – minerals essential for immune function and overall health.
Egg noodles contain more protein than regular pasta and provide moderate amounts of calcium. The comfort food aspect shouldn’t be overlooked, as familiar meals can support emotional well-being.
For meal prep, this dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it practical for busy weeknights or lunch preparations.
Dietary Adjustments
This recipe can be easily modified for different dietary needs. For gluten-free diets, substitute regular noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta varieties.
Whole-grain noodles boost the fiber content by 2-3g per serving and add more B vitamins. For lower fat content, use less butter or try a olive oil-based sauce instead.
Adding vegetables like broccoli, peas, or carrots increases vitamin content and fiber. Just 1 cup of mixed vegetables adds 3-4g of fiber and numerous antioxidants.
For vegan versions, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use plant-based butter. Nutritional yeast can add a savory flavor while providing B vitamins, including B12.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chicken with buttered noodles is a versatile comfort dish with numerous preparation methods and ingredient variations. Many home cooks have specific questions about ingredients, cooking techniques, and adaptations.
What are the basic ingredients needed for a simple chicken with buttered noodles recipe?
The foundation of chicken with buttered noodles requires relatively few ingredients. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs, egg noodles, butter, salt, and pepper form the core components.
Fresh or dried herbs like parsley and thyme enhance flavor without complicating the dish. Garlic powder and onion powder offer additional seasoning options.
For the simplest version, chicken broth replaces water when cooking noodles to infuse them with more flavor. Olive oil helps with sautéing the chicken to a golden brown before combining with the buttered noodles.
How can I adapt a chicken with buttered noodles recipe for a slow cooker?
Slow cooker adaptation requires placing chicken pieces at the bottom of the cooker. Pour in chicken broth, add seasonings, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken and return it to the slow cooker. Add uncooked egg noodles and additional broth if needed.
Once noodles are tender (approximately 20-30 minutes), stir in butter until melted. This method creates a tender, flavorful dish with minimal hands-on cooking time.
What is the method for making one-pan chicken with buttered noodles?
For one-pan preparation, start by browning seasoned chicken pieces in a large skillet with tall sides. Remove chicken temporarily once browned.
Add chicken broth to the same pan, scraping up browned bits for flavor. Return chicken to the pan and add uncooked egg noodles.
Cover and simmer until noodles are tender and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), about 8-10 minutes. Stir in butter just before serving for a glossy finish with minimal cleanup.
How do you prepare baked chicken with buttered noodles for optimal flavor?
Baked versions begin with seasoning chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and herbs. Arrange chicken in a greased baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
While chicken bakes, cook egg noodles according to package directions. Toss hot noodles with butter, salt, and pepper.
For serving, place buttered noodles on a platter with baked chicken on top. The chicken juices mix with the buttered noodles, creating a delicious combination of flavors.
What is the process for creating a creamy chicken and noodles dish?
Creamy versions incorporate dairy elements for richness. After cooking and shredding chicken, prepare a roux with butter and flour in a large pot.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk or cream. Simmer until thickened, then add cooked chicken and pre-boiled egg noodles.
Cream cheese or sour cream stirred in at the end provides extra creaminess. A touch of lemon juice or white wine can balance the richness with acidity.
Can you provide tips for making a breaded chicken and noodles recipe?
Breaded chicken pairs exceptionally well with buttered noodles. Dredge chicken cutlets in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat with seasoned breadcrumbs or panko.
Pan-fry breaded chicken in oil until golden and cooked through. Let chicken rest briefly before slicing to retain juices.
Serve breaded chicken over buttered egg noodles tossed with fresh herbs. A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish, while grated Parmesan cheese adds an extra flavor dimension.