Oh, let me tell you, there’s something just so soothing about a warm plate of Chicken with Buttered Noodles. It’s one of those cherished family recipes that you can always count on to bring comfort and smiles, especially on those hectic weeknights when time seems to slip through your fingers. I still remember my mom whipping this dish up back when I was a kid, and the aroma would fill the house, wrapping us in its warmth and inviting us to the dinner table as if it were a gentle hug.
Growing up, our weeknights were often a whirlwind of activities—homework, sports practices, and everything in between. But no matter how busy we got, Chicken with Buttered Noodles was our weeknight hero. It was simple, quick, yet so deliciously satisfying. My mom always said, “If you’ve got chicken and noodles, you’ve got dinner,” and boy, was she right! The magic happened in the simplicity of it all, with each ingredient playing its part to perfection.
Now, as I find myself preparing this same dish for my own family, I carry on the tradition. It’s easy enough to throw together after a long day, and it never fails to bring that sense of togetherness and joy to our dinner table. The buttery noodles, the crispy, golden-brown chicken, and a sprinkle of Parmesan—it’s a melody of flavors that just works. Plus, it’s a meal that even the pickiest of eaters will devour with gusto, and that’s always a win in my book!
So, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious, give this Chicken with Buttered Noodles a try. There’s nothing quite like sharing a meal that’s steeped in tradition and flavor with those you love. And who knows, maybe it’ll become a staple in your family too, a dish that stands the test of time and brings everyone together, one noodle at a time.
How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles
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Ingredients:
- 3 cooked chicken breasts
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- ¼ cup melted butter (for coating)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 3 tbsp melted butter (for noodles)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅛ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- 3 tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp Italian herbs
Directions:
- Combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and garlic powder in a shallow dish.
- Warm olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat.
- Dip each cooked chicken breast in the melted butter, ensuring an even coating, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
- Place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil, frying for several minutes on each side until they reach a crispy, golden brown hue.
- As the chicken cooks, divide the cooked egg noodles evenly into three bowls and toss each portion with a tablespoon of melted butter.
- Season the buttery noodles with shredded Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs, stirring gently to mix.
- Slice the golden fried chicken breasts and arrange them over the noodles in each bowl.
- Serve and enjoy this comforting dish with your family or friends!
Customizing Chicken with Buttered Noodles: Alternative Ingredients
If you’re running low on any of the ingredients, don’t worry! You can substitute the breadcrumbs with panko for extra crunch, or use any pasta you have on hand instead of egg noodles. If you prefer a different cheese, Romano or Asiago can also add a delightful twist to this classic dish.
Best Ways to Store Chicken with Buttered Noodles Leftovers
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze the dish, separate the chicken from the noodles to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until thoroughly warmed through.
Making the Most of Chicken with Buttered Noodles: Serving Ideas
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. For drinks, a crisp white wine or a fizzy seltzer makes a refreshing accompaniment. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Cooking Hacks to Elevate Chicken with Buttered Noodles
For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before cooking. When frying, ensure the oil is hot enough to achieve that perfect golden crust. For the noodles, adding a dash of lemon zest can brighten the flavors and complement the richness of the butter and cheese.
Adding a Seasonal Spin to Chicken with Buttered Noodles
In the spring, add fresh peas or asparagus to the noodles for a touch of green. Summer is perfect for incorporating cherry tomatoes or zucchini, while fall can bring in sautéed mushrooms or squash. In winter, roasted root vegetables can provide a hearty addition to this comforting dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta or zoodles. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the chicken coating. Ensure all other ingredients, like Parmesan cheese and seasonings, are gluten-free certified.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook and coat the chicken breasts in advance, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry. This can help save time on busy evenings. Just be sure to fry them fresh for that perfect crispy texture.
What other herbs can I use instead of Italian herbs?
If you don’t have Italian herbs on hand, feel free to mix your own blend using dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. You can also experiment with herbs like dill or tarragon for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Is there a healthier way to cook the chicken?
For a healthier version, consider baking the chicken instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re cooked through and crispy.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to make this meal more nutritious. You can toss in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli with the noodles. Roasted vegetables like carrots or beets can also complement the rich flavors of the dish.
How do I prevent the noodles from becoming too greasy?
To avoid greasy noodles, ensure you’re using just enough butter to coat them lightly. You can also drain the noodles thoroughly after cooking to remove excess water, which helps the butter and seasonings stick to the noodles evenly.
Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Equipment
- sauté pan
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 3 pieces cooked chicken breasts
- ¼ cup melted butter for coating
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
For the Noodles:
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- 3 tablespoons melted butter for noodles
- 3 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon Italian herbs
Instructions
For the Chicken:
- In a shallow bowl, blend the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian herbs, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat.
- Coat the chicken breasts in melted butter, ensuring they are fully covered with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cook the coated chicken breasts in the heated oil, frying until golden brown on both sides.
For the Noodles:
- Divide the cooked egg noodles among three bowls, adding one tablespoon of melted butter to each portion.
- Top the noodles with the shredded Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Once cooked, slice the chicken and place it on top of the buttered noodles.
- Serve this wonderful meal to your loved ones and enjoy!
