If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that brings together tender chicken and silky noodles with a buttery, garlicky finish, this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish where every ingredient shines, offering lush flavors and textures that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you need a little homemade magic in your kitchen, this recipe combines ease and taste in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just straightforward, essential ingredients that you likely have on hand, each playing a key role in making this dish delicious. From the tender chicken to the rich Parmesan, every component helps build those irresistible flavors and textures.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 pieces, bite-sized): Choose fresh chicken for tender, juicy bites that cook perfectly with the noodles.
- Egg noodles (8 ounces): These soft, wide noodles soak up buttery sauce beautifully, making every forkful rich and flavorful.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds creamy richness without overwhelming the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sear the chicken and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Brings aromatic depth and a touch of bite to brighten the dish.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that boosts flavor with earthy, herbal notes.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides just the right touch of heat and depth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Offers a salty, nutty finish that ties the dish together.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional): Adds a refreshing pop of color and herbaceous brightness.
- Chicken broth or reserved pasta water (1/4 cup): Keeps the noodles moist and helps create that luscious sauce texture.
How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—salting is essential because it seasons the noodles as they cook. Toss in the egg noodles and cook until al dente according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes. Al dente means the noodles still have a slight bite, which holds up beautifully once they mix with the buttery sauce. When done, drain the noodles but save about a quarter cup of the pasta water to help loosen and marry the flavors later.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While the noodles boil, heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter over medium heat in a large skillet. The olive oil gets hot quickly and butter adds richness, creating the perfect searing base. Toss in your seasoned chicken pieces (salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning) and cook them for 6 to 8 minutes. You want a beautifully golden exterior and juicy insides, so stir occasionally to cook evenly but resist moving them too much early on—this encourages a nice sear.
Step 3: Add Garlic for Aroma
Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, add the minced garlic right to the skillet. In just about 30 seconds, it’ll release an irresistible aroma and infuse the chicken with flavor. Be careful not to let it brown too much, or it could become bitter.
Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the last tablespoon of butter. This will melt into a creamy sauce base. Next, add the cooked noodles along with reserved pasta water or chicken broth to loosen things up—this keeps the dish luscious and saucy rather than dry. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and toss everything together. The cheese melts and clings to the noodles and chicken, creating a harmonious, buttery coating that’s pure comfort food.
Step 5: Final Touch and Garnish
For a fresh burst of color and flavor, sprinkle chopped parsley on top if you like. It brightens the dish visually and adds a light herbal note that contrasts deliciously with all the richness.
How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley isn’t just pretty—it adds a subtle freshness that complements the buttery noodles and savory chicken beautifully. If you want to add some tang, a quick drizzle of lemon juice brightens the entire plate. For an extra flavor boost, try a few red pepper flakes or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Side Dishes
This dish practically stands on its own, but serving it alongside a crisp, green salad balances the richness perfectly. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans tossed in a little garlic butter. Roasted vegetables like carrots or asparagus also make great partners, adding texture and flavor contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, try plating the noodles in a neat nest on the plate with a mound of chicken on top. You can also serve this in a shallow bowl, allowing all the sauce to be savored with each bite. Another great idea is to sprinkle chopped toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts on top for a surprising crunch and nutty aroma.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb the sauce over time, so gently reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore that perfect creamy texture and avoid dryness.
Freezing
This recipe can be frozen in portions, but the noodles sometimes change texture slightly after freezing. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for the best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When ready to reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. Microwave reheating works too—cover it to maintain moisture and stir halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles in this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic for this dish, you can substitute fettuccine, spaghetti, or even short pasta shapes like penne or rotini depending on your preference.
Is it okay to use leftover or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken breasts?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just stir it in during the final step to warm through, which saves cooking time while keeping everything delicious.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy, savory flavor.
How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, or chopped bell peppers while cooking the chicken. These veggies add color, nutrition, and extra layers of flavor.
What’s the best way to get the noodles perfectly coated in butter and cheese?
Cook the noodles just until al dente and reserve some pasta water. Mixing the noodles back into the skillet with melted butter, cheese, and a little reserved liquid creates a silky sauce that clings beautifully to every strand.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the warm, comforting charm of this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe. It’s quick, straightforward, and delivers that satisfying homestyle flavor every time. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight winner or a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, give this recipe a try—you’ll gladly keep it in your weekly rotation.
