Roast Chicken with Butter Noodles is a hearty and comforting meal that combines a juicy, perfectly roasted chicken with deliciously buttery egg noodles. This dish is simple to make, yet it packs a punch of flavor, making it a perfect option for dinner parties, family gatherings, or weeknight meals. The rich, savory taste of the chicken pairs beautifully with the smooth, buttery noodles, creating a meal that everyone will love.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to prepare the roast chicken and the butter noodles from scratch, along with helpful tips and tricks for making sure everything turns out just right. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients with Quantities
For the Roast Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter, softened
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Butter Noodles:
- 12 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 3 tbsp butter (for noodles)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions and Preparation Method
Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken roasts at the optimal temperature to develop a crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender. - Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of softened butter, making sure to coat it evenly. Then sprinkle the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, ensuring an even distribution on the skin and inside the cavity. - Prepare for Roasting
Place the chicken on a roasting rack in a baking dish or roasting pan. The rack will help lift the chicken, allowing the heat to circulate evenly around the bird, giving it that golden brown, crispy skin.
Roasting the Chicken
- Roast the Chicken
Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast it for about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast. - Baste for Extra Flavor
To ensure the chicken remains moist and flavorful, baste it with the pan juices every 20 to 30 minutes during roasting. This step will help the skin stay crispy while adding extra richness to the meat. - Rest Before Carving
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender result when you cut into it.
Preparing the Butter Noodles
- Cook the Egg Noodles
While the chicken is roasting, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles well to remove any excess water. - Prepare the Butter Sauce
In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the butter. - Season and Garnish
Season the noodles with a pinch of salt and pepper. For extra flavor, you can stir in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired. The cheese adds a creamy richness, while the parsley provides a fresh, vibrant touch.
Serving
- Carve the Chicken and Serve
Once the chicken has rested, carve it into pieces and serve it alongside the buttery egg noodles. For extra flavor, drizzle some of the pan juices over the chicken. The rich, savory juices will complement the crispy skin and tender meat, making every bite even more delicious.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer, but keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter. Chicken breasts typically take around 25-30 minutes to cook, depending on their size, at 375°F. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.
2. How can I make the noodles healthier?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use whole wheat egg noodles or even zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lower-carb option. The butter in the sauce can also be substituted with olive oil or a light butter alternative for a healthier fat choice.
3. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
You can season the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Roasting the chicken should be done fresh for the best results, but you can prepare it ahead of time to save some cooking time.
4. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in the oven and the noodles in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit more butter or olive oil if necessary.
5. Can I freeze this meal?
Yes, you can freeze both the roasted chicken and the butter noodles. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. For the noodles, store them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.
Conclusion
This Roast Chicken with Butter Noodles recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to please the entire family. The crispy, golden skin of the roast chicken paired with the rich, buttery noodles makes for a satisfying meal that feels like a special occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a Sunday roast, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
With easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a comforting homemade meal in just over an hour. Plus, with the option to make the chicken and noodles ahead of time, it’s a convenient option for busy days. Don’t forget to serve it with the delicious pan juices for an extra layer of flavor!