I’m really excited to share one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes with you: Chicken with Buttered Noodles! This dish brings back so many wonderful memories for me. I still remember the cozy Sunday evenings spent at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma of her rich chicken dishes filled every corner. She would often make this simple yet delightful meal, and I’d eagerly help in the kitchen, stirring the noodles while chatting about our week.
What makes Chicken with Buttered Noodles so special is its incredible balance of flavors and textures. The tender, juicy chicken paired with buttery, perfectly cooked noodles evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s such a versatile dish that you can easily customize to suit your preferences. Whether it’s a busy weeknight meal or a comforting Sunday dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!
So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe together!
What’s in Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
Let’s take a closer look at the stars of this dish!
Chicken Breast: The centerpiece of this meal, chicken breast is lean, packed with protein, and easy to cook. I prefer using boneless, skinless cuts for convenience and a tender texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could use bone-in chicken pieces for added flavor!
Butter: This ingredient is where the magic happens! Butter adds a rich creaminess to the noodles and gives a beautiful glossy finish. I use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
Noodles: Any kind of noodles will work in this recipe, but I love wide egg noodles for their texture and ability to soak up the buttery goodness. Plus, they cook quickly, making meal prep a breeze.
Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile of the dish with its aromatic punch. I usually chop or mince it finely to ensure that every bite is infused with its warm, comforting taste.
Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth to simmer the chicken infuses it with moisture and flavor. Homemade broth is the best, but store-bought works just fine—just look for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to finish the dish. It’s not just for show; its bright flavor contrasts beautifully with the buttery noodles.
Seasoning: I keep it simple here, using just salt and black pepper to let the natural flavors shine through. If you want to get fancy, feel free to add herbs like thyme or oregano for added complexity.
Is Chicken with Buttered Noodles Good for You?
Absolutely! Well, mostly. Like any comfort food, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Let’s break down some of the health benefits and considerations of our main ingredients:
Chicken Breast: This lean protein powerhouse is not only delicious but also great for building muscle and keeping you full longer. A standard serving of chicken breast has about 26 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal.
Butter: While butter is high in saturated fats, it also contains vitamins A, E, and K, essential for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Moderation is key here—using just the right amount makes the dish rich without going overboard on calories.
Noodles: Depending on the type of noodles you choose, they can be a great source of carbohydrates, providing you with energy. Whole grain or egg noodles have additional fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.
Garlic: Garlic is more than just a flavor booster; it also has health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and potential heart health advantages. Plus, it can add depth to any dish!
Parsley: This lovely herb is packed with vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains antioxidants, which may help combat free radicals in the body.
Overall, Chicken with Buttered Noodles presents a satisfying balance of nutrients, while still giving you that warm, comforting feeling of a home-cooked meal!
Ingredients List
For about 4 servings, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz wide egg noodles
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this delicious dish to life! Here’s how I make it:
1. **Cook the Noodles:** Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the wide egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want them al dente since they’ll continue to cook when combined with the chicken. Once done, drain the noodles and toss them with a tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** While your noodles are cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with salt and black pepper on both sides. This ensures that the chicken is flavorful from the start.
3. **Sear the Chicken:** In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. When the butter is sizzling, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to check; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4. **Add the Garlic:** Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. **Deglaze the Pan:** Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release those lovely browned bits. They add so much flavor! Bring the broth to a simmer.
6. **Slice the Chicken:** While the broth is simmering, slice the chicken into thin strips. This not only looks beautiful but makes it easier to serve and eat.
7. **Combine Everything:** Once the broth is simmering, add the sliced chicken back into the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Toss gently to combine, allowing the noodles to absorb some of the broth’s flavor. You can also add an extra tablespoon of butter here for an extra luxurious touch!
8. **Final Touch:** Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. **Serve:** Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve it hot!
Delicious Variations and Serving Suggestions
There are countless ways to make this dish your own, so here are some ideas to consider:
– **Veggie Boost:** Add some sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added color and nutrients. You can cook them in the same skillet after the garlic before adding the broth.
– **Creamy Twist:** For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or some grated Parmesan cheese at the end. It turns the dish into a comforting creamy delight!
– **Herb Infusion:** Mix in some fresh herbs like basil or thyme right before serving for an aromatic flavor boost that complements the meal beautifully.
– **Lemon Zest:** Brighten it up with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or some lemon zest at the end. The acidity can really enhance the richness of the dish!
– **With a Kick:** If you’re a fan of spice, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for a little heat.
Take the base recipe and let your imagination run wild! Each variation allows you to adapt it according to your cravings and what you have on hand.
As for serving suggestions, Chicken with Buttered Noodles pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side. You can even serve it with a hearty slice of garlic bread for some extra indulgence.
After trying this dish, I promise you’ll understand why it has such a special place in my heart! It’s not just about the flavors—it’s about the memories and the warmth of sharing a meal with those you love.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and give Chicken with Buttered Noodles a try! I’d love to hear about your experience with this recipe or any personal touches you make. Happy cooking!
