Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy, satisfying, and super easy to whip up, this Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is your new weeknight best friend. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day — simple yet loaded with flavor, buttery noodles twirled together with juicy, seasoned chicken. Everything comes together in under 30 minutes, and it’s practically impossible not to love. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just looking for a comforting go-to dinner, this one delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Fuss-Free: Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry staples you already have.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s buttery, savory, and deeply comforting — exactly what you need on a busy night.
• Kid and Adult Approved: No strange flavors or exotic ingredients, just familiar deliciousness that everyone enjoys.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without compromising on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and irresistible dish:

• Chicken breast or thighs: Use boneless, skinless pieces for quicker cooking; thighs add more flavor and stay juicy.
• Egg noodles or pasta: Wide egg noodles are classic for their tender texture and ability to hold onto the butter.
• Butter: The star of the show — use unsalted so you can control the saltiness.
• Garlic: Minced or grated for a warm, savory depth.
• Chicken broth: Adds extra flavor to the noodles as they cook.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and noodles.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness at the end.
• Parmesan (optional): For a bit of richness and savory kick if you’re feeling extra.

Variations

• Add Veggies: Stir in steamed peas, broccoli, or spinach for a bit of green and added nutrition.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamier texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter for gentle heat.
• Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic and sauté it longer for a stronger, richer flavor.
• Lemon Twist: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up and pairs beautifully with the butter and chicken.

How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the noodles cook, season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil and cook the chicken until golden on the outside and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and slice or shred.

Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the butter. Add the garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pan and capture all those delicious browned bits.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Add the cooked noodles and chicken back into the pan. Toss everything together until coated in the buttery sauce. Add a bit of reserved pasta water if it needs loosening.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Stir in chopped parsley and, if you’re using it, a sprinkle of parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy goodness.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep them al dente so they don’t get mushy when tossed with the sauce.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, give the chicken a few minutes to rest before slicing — this helps keep it juicy.
• Use Good Butter: Since butter is the main flavor, using a high-quality butter really makes a difference.
• Deglaze the Pan: Don’t skip adding a bit of broth — it lifts the flavor from the bottom of the pan into your sauce.

How to Serve

This dish shines on its own, but here are a few tasty ways to round out the meal:

Garnishes:

• A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives.
• Grated parmesan or a dusting of black pepper on top.

Side Dishes:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Steamed green beans or roasted carrots for color and crunch.
• Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for extra comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles will soak up more butter as they sit, making it even more flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and noodles, though the texture of the pasta might soften a bit when thawed. Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a small splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and keep things silky.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and makes this dish even faster. Just shred it and add it during the final toss with the noodles and butter.

What type of noodles work best?
Egg noodles are classic, but you can use any pasta you love. Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even small shells work beautifully.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes — swap the butter for a dairy-free butter alternative, and skip the cheese. It’ll still be delicious with the garlic and broth for flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids tend to love the buttery noodles and mild chicken. It’s a great dish to get them involved with too — they can help stir or sprinkle on cheese at the end.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate quick comfort meal — buttery, savory, and completely satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again, especially on nights when you just want something simple and delicious without the fuss. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly favorite!

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