If you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, quick to prepare, and incredibly satisfying, this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender, perfectly seasoned chicken pieces nestled alongside silky egg noodles tossed in rich garlic butter, with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley to brighten every bite. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples in a way that feels luxurious and homey all at once, making it a perfect go-to dish for weeknights, casual dinners, or even when you want to impress someone without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the richness of butter to the aromatic punch of garlic, every element works in harmony to create a deeply flavorful and comforting dish.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
- 12 ounces egg noodles: Their soft, broad shape holds the butter sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps sear the chicken.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Essential for that luscious, velvety coating on noodles and chicken.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Imparts a warm, aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a nutty, salty finish that melts into the noodles.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness and beautiful color.
- Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth or pasta water: Helps loosen the sauce for perfect coating without dryness.
How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt seasons the noodles as they cook, ensuring every bite has flavor. Add your egg noodles and cook them according to the package’s directions until they’re al dente — tender but with a slight bite. Drain the noodles well but be sure to save a little of that pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce later. Set the noodles aside while you turn your attention to the chicken.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and generously season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. The combination of spices gives the chicken a rich, savory flavor with beautiful color. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown on the outside and cooked through — this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate so you can use the same skillet for the next step.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. This step is key to infusing the butter with that irresistible garlic aroma that will coat the noodles and chicken later.
Step 4: Combine Noodles and Chicken
Return the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing them gently in the fragrant garlic butter to ensure every strand is coated. Now, add the chicken back into the skillet and stir everything together. If the mixture seems too thick or dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or chicken broth — this keeps the dish moist and silky.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and chicken, stirring well to incorporate its nutty richness into the sauce. Finally, scatter the freshly chopped parsley across the top to elevate the dish with freshness and a pop of vibrant green color. It’s ready to serve!
How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a delightful way to boost both the look and flavor of your Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe. Consider freshly grated Parmesan for a cheesy punch, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you love a little heat, or extra parsley for a bright herbal kick. A light squeeze of lemon juice can bring a refreshing zing, balancing the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or crisp carrots. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also makes a lovely companion, cutting through the butteriness of the noodles and keeping the meal balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the chicken and noodles in individual shallow bowls and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-worthy look at home. You can also layer the dish in a casserole style, topping it with extra Parmesan and baking briefly to create a bubbly, golden crust that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to three days. When stored properly, the flavors meld nicely, making the next meal just as delicious as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this dish for up to two months. For best results, slightly undercook the noodles before freezing to avoid mushiness when reheated. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture pleasant and prevent drying out.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to refresh the sauce and prevent sticking. Using the stove helps maintain the buttery texture and keeps the chicken tender. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the noodles from becoming too soft.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more juiciness and flavor due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to trim any excess fat and cut them into similar-sized pieces to cook evenly.
What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
Egg noodles are ideal because their broad, curly surface holds the buttery sauce beautifully. However, feel free to experiment with fettuccine or pappardelle if you have them on hand.
Is it necessary to save the pasta water or chicken broth?
Reserving some pasta water or having chicken broth on hand is a great way to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. The starch in the pasta water helps bind the sauce and noodles together for a silky finish.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Steamed or sautéed broccoli, peas, or spinach fold in nicely and add extra color and nutrition to the dish without overpowering the buttery, garlicky flavor.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like olive oil or vegan butter, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will remain rich and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for a quick weeknight meal but delicious enough to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try it soon — the blend of buttery noodles, juicy chicken, and garlic goodness will quickly make it one of your go-to recipes when you want something satisfying without much fuss.
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Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is a simple, comforting meal featuring tender, seasoned chicken sautéed to golden perfection and tossed with rich garlic butter-coated egg noodles. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it’s a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Noodles and Sauce
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water for loosening the sauce
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water if desired for loosening the sauce later, then set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: While the noodles cook, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Sauté the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Butter Garlic Sauce: Lower the heat to medium on the same skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Toss Noodles and Chicken Together: Add the drained noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the garlic butter. Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir thoroughly to combine everything.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the mixture seems dry, add the reserved pasta water or chicken broth a little at a time to loosen the sauce and create a silky texture.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Give a final gentle toss and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of flavor.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas stirred in for added nutrition and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
