Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for any night of the week. Juicy, seasoned chicken breasts are either baked or pan-seared to a golden perfection, creating a savory protein that pairs wonderfully with tender egg noodles tossed in a rich, buttery sauce. The noodles are enhanced with a touch of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, adding a delightful burst of flavor. This dish combines simplicity with classic flavors, making it a satisfying and wholesome option for a family dinner or a cozy solo meal.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Buttered Noodles:
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles or pasta of choice
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking, or heat a skillet over medium heat if pan-searing.
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- For baking: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For pan-searing: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Buttered Noodles:
- Cook the egg noodles or pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add the butter to the hot noodles and stir until melted and well combined.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts and serve them on a plate alongside a generous portion of buttered noodles.
- Garnish with additional parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips:
- Chicken Variations: For added flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
- Noodle Alternatives: Feel free to use other types of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, if you prefer.
- Extra Flavor: For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to the buttered noodles.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Consider adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas to the noodles for a complete meal.
Enjoy your comforting Chicken with Buttered Noodles!
