Buttered noodles and chicken is one of those dishes that transcends generations. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or simply someone craving a quick, satisfying meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s simple, flavorful, and customizable, making it an ideal choice for any day of the week.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect buttered noodles and chicken dish, ensuring you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. So grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Why Buttered Noodles and Chicken is a Comfort Food
There’s something about the combination of tender chicken and buttery pasta that instantly feels comforting. The noodles soak up the richness of the butter, creating a silky, savory base that pairs perfectly with the lightly seasoned chicken. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply need a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, buttered noodles and chicken is there to provide that comfort.
This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can keep it simple with just chicken and noodles, or you can add in your favorite vegetables, herbs, and seasonings to elevate the flavor. It’s a dish that works for all ages, making it a staple in many households.
Ingredients for Buttered Noodles and Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make buttered noodles and chicken:
For the Buttered Noodles:
- 8 oz of pasta (egg noodles or any pasta of your choice)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional for added richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)
Tip: If you want to add vegetables, try peas, carrots, or broccoli, which pair wonderfully with this dish.
How to Cook Buttered Noodles
Cooking the noodles for buttered noodles and chicken is simple, but there are a few tips that can make your noodles extra special:
Boil the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes for most pasta types. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Drain the Noodles:
Once the pasta is al dente, reserve a cup of pasta water (for later use). Then drain the noodles and set them aside.
Toss in Butter:
In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the noodles back to the pot and toss until the pasta is fully coated in butter. For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil.
Season:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking the Chicken
There are several ways to cook chicken for this recipe, depending on your preference. Here are three common methods:
Grilled Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Pan-Fried Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer.
- Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F . Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest.
Baked Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with your preferred seasonings.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest before slicing.
Combining the Buttered Noodles and Chicken
Once the noodles and chicken are ready, it’s time to bring everything together:
Slice the Chicken:
Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Add Chicken to Noodles:
Add the cooked chicken to the pot of buttered noodles, gently tossing to combine.
Adjust the Consistency:
If the pasta feels too dry, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the noodles more evenly.
Serve immediately, and enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal!
7. Additional Tips for Perfecting Buttered Noodles and Chicken
To take your buttered noodles and chicken to the next level, try these tips:
Add garlic and herbs:
For extra flavor, sauté some garlic in the butter before adding the noodles. Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary work wonderfully.
Use bone-in chicken:
For even more flavor, you can opt for bone-in chicken thighs or breasts. The bones add extra juiciness and richness to the meat.
Cheese it up:
Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan, on top of the finished dish.
How to Store Buttered Noodles and Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers of buttered noodles and chicken, don’t worry! This dish stores well and can be enjoyed later. Here’s how to store it properly to keep it fresh:
Storing in the Refrigerator
To store buttered noodles and chicken in the fridge, follow these steps:
- Let it Cool: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the food soggy.
- Use an Airtight Container: Place the leftover buttered noodles and chicken in an airtight container. This helps to maintain freshness and prevent the dish from absorbing other odors in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Buttered Noodles and Chicken
If you want to store buttered noodles and chicken for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Here’s how to do it:
- Cool Completely: Just like for refrigeration, make sure the dish is completely cooled before freezing to avoid ice crystals forming inside the container.
- Divide into Portions: If you have a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller portions. This way, you only need to reheat the amount you plan to eat.
- Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Store the buttered noodles and chicken in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, press out any excess air to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the Container: Label the container or bag with the date it was made, so you can keep track of how long it’s been frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Leftovers
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover buttered noodles and chicken, here are a few ways to reheat it:
- In the Microwave: Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or chicken broth to help rehydrate the noodles. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
- On the Stovetop: Transfer the leftovers to a skillet and heat on medium-low heat. Add a little butter, olive oil, or broth to help loosen the noodles and prevent them from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
- In the Oven: You can also reheat the leftovers in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot.
Tips for Keeping Buttered Noodles and Chicken Fresh
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: If you plan to store leftovers, undercook the noodles slightly when initially preparing the dish. This way, they won’t turn mushy when reheated.
- Avoid Storing Sauces Separately: For convenience, store the noodles and chicken together with the butter sauce, as separating them can affect the texture when reheated.
By following these steps, you can enjoy your buttered noodles and chicken even after it’s been stored, and it will taste just as delicious the second time around!
Serving Suggestions
Buttered noodles and chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are a few ideas:
For a family meal:
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
For a more hearty dish:
Pair with roasted vegetables, like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots.
For a simple weeknight dinner:
Serve the buttered noodles and chicken on its own for a quick and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 1/4 of the recipe):
- Calories: 550-600
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Adding Butter to Noodles Good?
Yes, adding butter to noodles is not only delicious, but it’s also a classic way to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Butter adds a rich, creamy taste that complements the noodles and makes them silky and smooth. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate plain pasta into something comforting and flavorful.
From a nutritional perspective, butter provides fats that can help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins (like vitamins A, D, and E) and offer energy. However, since butter is high in saturated fats, it’s best to use it in moderation. For a lighter version, you can mix in some olive oil, which offers heart-healthy fats, or experiment with using flavored butters (such as garlic or herb butter) for added zest.
Can You Eat Chicken with Noodles?
Absolutely! Chicken and noodles make a perfect pairing, and they are a popular combination in many cuisines worldwide. Chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while noodles offer carbohydrates for energy, making the meal balanced and satisfying.
Whether it’s buttered noodles with grilled chicken, chicken noodle soup, or even chicken Alfredo pasta, the pairing works because the mild flavor of chicken complements the neutral taste of the noodles. Additionally, chicken can absorb the flavors of the seasonings or sauce you’re using with the noodles, making for a delicious, hearty dish.
What Protein Goes Best with Buttered Noodles?
While chicken is a classic protein to pair with buttered noodles, other proteins also work wonderfully with this dish. Here are some great options:
- Chicken: Grilled, pan-fried, or baked chicken breasts, thighs, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Pork: Tender pork chops or sausage can add a savory depth to the dish.
- Shrimp: Lightly seasoned shrimp adds a burst of flavor and pairs well with the rich buttered noodles.
- Beef: For a heartier meal, thinly sliced steak or ground beef can work well with buttered noodles.
- Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian or vegan option, grilled or sautéed tofu or tempeh makes a great protein source.
The key is to choose a protein with a flavor that complements the mild, buttery taste of the noodles. If you want to add extra richness, proteins like beef or pork may work best, while lighter proteins like shrimp or chicken offer a balance of flavors.
How to Spice Up Noodles and Sauce?
If you’re looking to add some extra flavor and spice to your noodles and sauce, here are several ways to elevate your dish:
Add Spices:
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These are great additions for an easy, savory base flavor.
- Chili Flakes or Red Pepper: For a bit of heat, sprinkle chili flakes or red pepper into the sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
- Paprika or Smoked Paprika: For a subtle smokiness, paprika is an excellent choice.
- Cayenne Pepper: If you enjoy a little more kick, cayenne can add that spicy edge.
Fresh Herbs:
- Basil, Parsley, or Oregano: Fresh herbs can brighten up the flavors, adding a burst of freshness to the dish.
- Thyme or Rosemary: These woody herbs bring a savory and aromatic note to your noodles.
Sauces and Condiments:
- Soy Sauce or Tamari: For a deeper umami flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce.
- Hot Sauce: Sriracha or any of your favorite hot sauces can spice up the dish while adding a tangy bite.
- Pesto or Tomato Sauce: Mixing in a bit of pesto or a marinara sauce can transform the dish into a whole new experience.
Cheese and Dairy:
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano: Cheese adds both flavor and richness. Try mixing it into the sauce or sprinkling it on top of your noodles.
- Cream or Heavy Cream: Adding a splash of cream can turn your buttered noodles into a creamy, luxurious dish, much like an Alfredo-style pasta.
Add Vegetables:
- Peppers, Spinach, or Mushrooms: Sauté vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms in butter or olive oil, then toss them with the noodles to add flavor, texture, and nutrition.
Lemon Juice or Zest:
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of lemon zest can provide acidity to balance the richness of the butter and enhance the overall flavor profile.
By mixing and matching these ingredients, you can create endless variations of flavorful noodles and sauce to suit your taste preferences!
Conclusion
Buttered noodles and chicken is a classic comfort food that’s quick, simple, and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients to make it your own!