Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Chicken with buttered noodles is a comforting and straightforward dish that blends the rich flavors of tender chicken and buttery pasta. This classic recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a delightful balance of protein and carbohydrates with a savory, creamy sauce that clings to every noodle. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favorite in many households, as it can be easily customized with additional ingredients or adjusted to suit various dietary needs.

The origins of buttered noodles can be traced back to simple European peasant dishes, where noodles or pasta were tossed with butter and salt. Over time, this humble dish has evolved, incorporating a variety of proteins and seasonings to enhance its flavor. Adding chicken to buttered noodles not only provides a protein boost but also creates a more satisfying and well-rounded meal.

This recipe is adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different herbs, vegetables, and sauces to create your own unique version. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe for Chicken with Buttered Noodles, followed by suggestions for variations and substitutions to tailor the dish to your preferences.

INGREDIENTS:

1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

12 oz egg noodles

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Cook the Noodles:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

While the noodles are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat the chicken in the melted butter.

Combine and Serve:

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the chicken and butter. Toss to combine, ensuring the noodles are well-coated with the butter sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if using. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

Variations

Creamy Chicken with Buttered Noodles:

Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the skillet after melting the butter for a richer, creamier sauce.

Garlic and Herb Chicken with Noodles:

Sauté 3-4 minced garlic cloves in the butter before adding the chicken back to the skillet. Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil for additional flavor.

Vegetable-Loaded Chicken and Noodles:

Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the skillet along with the chicken for a more nutritious meal.

Spicy Chicken with Buttered Noodles:

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the butter sauce for a spicy kick.

Substitutions

Gluten-Free Noodles:

Replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Dairy-Free Option:

Use a dairy-free butter substitute and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Low-Carb Version:

Substitute egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles for a lower-carb option.

Alternative Proteins:

Use shrimp, tofu, or turkey instead of chicken for a different protein source.

Conclusion

Chicken with buttered noodles is a versatile and comforting dish that can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and dietary requirements. The combination of tender chicken and buttery, cheesy noodles is a timeless favorite that never fails to satisfy. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with different variations and substitutions, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal that the whole family will enjoy.