When you’re in need of a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a rich, buttery sauce that’s simple yet satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delightful meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 500 g chicken breasts, cut into pieces: Chicken breasts are ideal for this dish because they cook quickly and absorb flavors well. Cutting them into bite-sized pieces ensures even cooking and easy serving.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing its natural flavor.
For the Noodles:
- 250 g pasta noodles: Any type of pasta can be used, but noodles like fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work particularly well.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the noodles.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Infuses the butter with a delicious garlic flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a burst of color and freshness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy element that complements the buttered noodles perfectly.
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional): Adds a touch of brightness and a hint of citrus flavor.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the chicken’s natural flavor and create a nice base for the dish.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cook the Noodles
- Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Buttered Noodles
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Toss the Noodles: Add the cooked pasta noodles to the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss the noodles gently to coat them evenly with the butter and garlic.
- Add Cheese and Parsley: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Continue to toss until the cheese is melted and the noodles are well coated. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
4. Combine and Serve
- Add the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the buttered noodles. Gently toss to combine everything, ensuring the chicken is well mixed with the noodles.
- Garnish: If desired, garnish with lemon slices for a touch of brightness and extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is more than just a simple dinner. It’s a dish that offers:
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of tender chicken, buttery noodles, and garlic creates a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.
- Customizable: You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables like sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Tips for Perfect Chicken with Buttered Noodles
- Chicken Cooking Tips: Ensure the chicken is cooked evenly by not overcrowding the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to achieve a nice sear.
- Noodle Cooking Tips: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot butter sauce.
- Butter Substitute: For a lighter version, you can use olive oil or a combination of olive oil and butter.
Creative Variations
While Chicken with Buttered Noodles is delicious as is, consider these variations to mix things up:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a bit of heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or basil for a unique flavor twist.
Final Thoughts
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or whenever you’re in the mood for something delicious yet easy to prepare. With its rich, buttery noodles, tender chicken, and flavorful garlic, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite of this savory, comforting dish!
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