Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

If you’ve ever craved the ultimate comfort food that’s both unfussy and absolutely soul-satisfying, Chicken with Buttered Noodles just might be your new weeknight go-to. Picture tender, juicy chicken mingling with buttery, garlic-infused noodles, all brought together in a single skillet and topped with freshly chopped parsley and a dusting of Parmesan. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, tired grown-ups, or just yourself after a long day, Chicken with Buttered Noodles delivers cozy flavors in every bite and comes together in under 30 minutes — what’s not to love?

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken with Buttered Noodles lies in its simplicity. Each component has its own starring role, offering delicious flavor, a pop of color, or a texture that ties everything together. Here’s what you’ll need to create this crave-worthy classic at home:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect for bite-sized, moist pieces that soak up the buttery sauce.
• Egg Noodles: These silky, tender noodles provide the perfect backdrop for all the cozy flavors, but your favorite pasta works too.
• Olive Oil: Just a splash helps achieve that beautiful golden sear on the chicken while infusing it with a hint of fruitiness.
• Unsalted Butter: Using butter in both the sauce and noodles makes the dish rich, glossy, and outright irresistible.
• Garlic: Minced garlic delivers a gentle aromatic punch that makes the sauce craveable.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life; season generously and taste as you go.
• Dried Italian seasoning: A dash of this or a blend of basil and parsley brings herby, savory Mediterranean notes.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but highly recommended for a salty, nutty finish that elevates the noodles.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped and scattered just before serving for a bright pop of freshness and color.

How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente — tender but with a tiny bite in the center. Don’t forget to reserve a splash of pasta water if you like your noodles a bit saucier! Drain and set the noodles aside; they’ll be the base for all the buttery goodness to come.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the noodles bubble away, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Let them sizzle away for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate — it’s about to make a triumphant return.

Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce

In the same skillet (no need to wash it — those browned bits are pure flavor), melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Stir and let everything cook for 1–2 minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant and the herbs are toasty, releasing their aroma into that savory, bubbling butter.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the drained noodles to the skillet along with the remaining tablespoon of butter. Toss the noodles well to coat each strand with that luscious garlic butter sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and give everything a gentle mix. If the noodles seem dry, a little reserved pasta water will bring the sauce together beautifully. Finish by showering with Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it) and scatter fresh parsley over the top. Serve your Chicken with Buttered Noodles warm, right out of the pan, and get ready for clean plates all around!

How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

To make Chicken with Buttered Noodles pop both visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley over the top right before serving. For even more depth, add a bit more ground black pepper or a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Want a touch of zest? A squeeze of fresh lemon brings brightness that balances out the richness of the butter and cheese.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with just about any side. Think simple: a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or a plate of garlicky sautéed spinach. A hunk of crusty bread is the perfect way to soak up any leftover butter sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop behind.

Creative Ways to Present

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is homey by nature but can dress up for any occasion. Try serving it in individual shallow bowls for a more elegant dinner, or family-style from a big platter at the center of the table. For a fun twist, nestle the chicken and noodles inside Parmesan cheese “cups” or use colorful plates and napkins to play up the cheery, golden tones of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Chicken with Buttered Noodles will keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for easy delicious lunches during the week.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed freshly made, you can freeze Chicken with Buttered Noodles for longer storage. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to two months. The noodles can become a little softer after freezing, but the flavors remain wonderful and satisfying.

Reheating

To reheat, simply add a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen up the sauce, then warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until everything is heated through. For a quick option, you can microwave individual servings, again with a little moisture added to keep the noodles tender and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more moisture and flavor, making Chicken with Buttered Noodles even more succulent and rich. Choose what you have on hand or prefer — both cuts work perfectly in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely. While egg noodles are classic for this dish, any pasta you love will work. Rotini, penne, linguine, or even spaghetti noodles will happily soak up the buttery sauce and become just as craveable.

Is Parmesan cheese necessary?

It’s totally optional, but if you love a salty, nutty finish, don’t skip it! Parmesan adds a luxurious touch to Chicken with Buttered Noodles, but the dish is still delightful without it, especially if you need to keep it dairy-free.

How can I make this dish ahead for a party?

You can cook the chicken and noodles in advance, tossing them lightly with a bit of olive oil to keep them from sticking. When guests arrive, gently reheat everything in a skillet with the butter, garlic, and seasoning — then combine for a super-fast, crowd-pleasing main event.

Can I add vegetables to Chicken with Buttered Noodles?

Yes, and it’s a fantastic idea! Toss in baby spinach, peas, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli with the noodles, and you’ll have a full meal in a bowl that’s colorful, nourishing, and extra delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a dish that’s so simple to make but tastes like a nostalgic hug in a bowl. Chicken with Buttered Noodles is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again, just because it always hits the spot. If you haven’t tried it yet, gather your ingredients and give it a whirl — you might discover your new favorite comfort food tonight.

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