Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender pieces of chicken are pan-seared or baked, then served over a bed of rich, buttery noodles. It’s a family-friendly classic that requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breasts or thighs
egg noodles or your favorite pasta
unsalted butter
garlic (optional)
salt
black pepper
paprika (optional)
parsley (for garnish)
olive oil or cooking spray
directions
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
While the chicken cooks, boil water in a large pot and cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain.
Return the hot noodles to the pot, add butter, and stir until melted and noodles are coated. Add salt, pepper, and minced garlic if desired.
Slice or shred the cooked chicken and serve it over the buttered noodles.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
Add steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, any pasta works well—try fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.
What kind of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for quick cooking and tender texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, cook both components ahead and combine just before serving.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely, the mild flavors and buttered noodles are a hit with kids.
How can I make it more flavorful?
Use seasoned butter, garlic powder, or add a pinch of Italian herbs.
Conclusion
Easy Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food made simple. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a go-to family favorite, this dish brings together savory chicken and rich noodles in the most satisfying way. Try it once, and it’s sure to make a regular appearance at your dinner table.
Print
Easy Chicken with Buttered Noodles
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, One‑Pan
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A cozy, one-pan comfort meal featuring seared chicken breasts over rich, buttered egg noodles with optional Parmesan and parsley garnish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite‑sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 12 oz egg noodles
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles until al dente, drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Season chicken with half the salt, pepper, garlic and onion powders.
- Add chicken to skillet in a single layer. Cook 5–7 min per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal), then remove chicken and keep warm.
- Reduce heat to medium, add butter to skillet and let it foam.
- Return chicken to pan; add cooked noodles, remaining salt, and toss to coat in butter.
- Sprinkle Parmesan and parsley over top; toss gently. Serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
- Stir in veggies like spinach or mushrooms after cooking chicken.
- Substitute gluten‑free or whole‑wheat pasta as needed.
- Add red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Leftovers keep 3 days—reheat with a splash of broth or cream.