If your weeknights are filled with the hustle and bustle of family schedules and you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, Chicken Buttered Noodles might just become your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish takes humble egg noodles and bathes them in a rich, buttery, garlicky sauce, then brings everything together with tender, golden-brown chicken pieces. It’s the perfect combination of savory comfort and simple elegance, all wrapped up in under 30 minutes from prep to plate. Whether you’re a beginner home cook dipping your toes into Italian-inspired flavors or a seasoned pro looking for a fuss-free weeknight dinner, this recipe has your back. The preparation only requires 10 minutes of hands-on work, followed by a quick 20-minute cook time, making it truly beginner-friendly and ideal for those evenings when you need a satisfying meal without a mountain of dishes to do afterward.
I still remember the first time I whipped up this recipe for a casual Sunday lunch with friends. The kitchen filled with the irresistible scent of garlic sizzling in butter, and the noodles glistened under the soft kitchen light like a golden ribbon of comfort. My friends couldn’t stop raving about the tender chicken, seasoned just right with Italian herbs, and how the chicken broth deglazed the pan to create a silky sauce that clung to every strand of noodle. At about 550 calories per serving, it strikes the balance between indulgent and wholesome, making it a reliable go-to for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re serving it as a solo treat or a cozy meal for four, this dish brings people together. So grab your skillet, a handful of fresh parsley, and let’s dive into the creamy, garlicky goodness of Chicken Buttered Noodles!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN BUTTERED NOODLES
Every memorable dish starts with quality ingredients that shine in harmony. In this Chicken Buttered Noodles recipe, we keep things straightforward yet flavorful by using pantry staples and fresh additions. Each component plays its part to transform simple noodles and chicken into a luscious, restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Egg noodles
Soft, ribbon-like pasta that soaks up every bit of buttery sauce, providing a tender and satisfying base for the dish. Their wide shape ensures each strand is coated perfectly.
- Unsalted butter
Adds a creamy richness and smooth mouthfeel. Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the seasoning, allowing the garlic and herbs to shine.
- Olive oil
Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds a subtle fruity undertone. It also gives the chicken a beautiful sear when cooking.
- Garlic
Offers a fragrant punch and aromatic depth. Minced fresh garlic infuses the butter and oil mixture with savory complexity in under a minute of sautéing.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cook quickly and evenly when cut into bite-sized pieces. They deliver lean protein and absorb flavors from the herbs, garlic, and butter.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that enhance natural flavors and balance the richness of the butter and cheese.
- Italian seasoning
A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that brings an authentic Mediterranean flair and aromatic lift to the chicken.
- Chicken broth
Acts as a deglazing liquid to lift flavorful browned bits from the skillet, creating a silky sauce that ties the noodles and chicken together.
- Parmesan cheese
Provides a salty, nutty finish that melts into the noodles and enriches the buttery sauce with savory depth.
- Fresh parsley
A bright, herbal garnish that adds color contrast and a fresh, clean note to every bite.
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN BUTTERED NOODLES
Let’s walk through each step to turn these simple ingredients into a comforting, restaurant-worthy dish you’ll want to make again and again. Follow along closely, and soon you’ll be tossing together tender chicken and buttery noodles in one glorious skillet.
1. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, ensuring they reach al dente perfection. Once done, drain them thoroughly and set them aside to prevent any extra water from diluting the sauce.
2. Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Stir in the olive oil to stabilize the butter and prevent it from browning too quickly, creating a smooth cooking base.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it releases its aroma and just begins to turn a light golden color. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can develop a bitter taste when overcooked.
4. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer to ensure each piece gets a chance to sear and develop a golden crust.
5. Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to be fully cooked through with no pink remaining inside and a lightly browned exterior for extra flavor.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom, letting the broth simmer for about 2 minutes to absorb all that savory goodness.
7. Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and gently toss them with the chicken and sauce. Make sure every strand of pasta is coated in that flavorful buttery mixture.
8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and continue to toss until the cheese melts and blends into the sauce, thickening it just enough to cling to the noodles.
9. Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color, and serve the dish hot, letting everyone dive into its warm, comforting flavors.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN BUTTERED NOODLES
Once you’ve mastered the core recipe, it’s time to think about how to present and elevate your Chicken Buttered Noodles to impress family and guests alike. Whether you’re plating for a casual weeknight meal or a relaxed weekend gathering, these serving ideas will enhance texture, color, and overall enjoyment.
- Fresh Green Salad on the Side
A crisp salad with mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber ribbons, and a light lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the noodles. The acidity of the dressing cuts through the butteriness, making each bite feel balanced and vibrant.
- Toasted Garlic Bread
Slice a baguette or rustic Italian loaf, brush with a blend of olive oil and minced garlic, then toast until golden and crunchy. The hearty crunch offers a delightful texture contrast, and you can use the bread to mop up any leftover buttery sauce on your plate.
- Steamed Vegetables
Brightly steamed broccoli florets, baby carrots, or green beans add color and nutrition. Lightly season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil to keep them simple, so they complement the creamy noodles without competing for attention.
- Chilled White Wine Pairing
A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc brings acidity and fruity notes that play beautifully against the savory, herb-infused chicken and creamy sauce. Sip between bites to refresh your palate and highlight each flavor component.
HOW TO STORE CHICKEN BUTTERED NOODLES
Chicken Buttered Noodles are fantastic as leftovers, but storing them properly ensures they stay just as delicious when reheated. Whether you’re planning ahead for meal prep or saving those extra servings, these tips will help maintain the dish’s texture and flavor.
- Refrigerate Promptly
Allow the noodles to cool slightly before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can make the pasta soggy.
- Separate Sauce and Noodles
If you plan to store for two or three days, consider keeping the noodles and chicken mixture in one container and the sauce (if any extra remains) in another. When reheating, combine them slowly over low heat to avoid overcooking the pasta.
- Freezing for Longer Storage
For up to one month, freeze the cooled Chicken Buttered Noodles in zip-top freezer bags, pressing out as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Reheating Tips
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or a pat of butter to refresh the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even heating. In the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to maintain an even temperature and prevent dryness.
CONCLUSION
You’ve now got everything you need to create a soul-soothing, flavor-packed Chicken Buttered Noodles dinner that’s perfect for any day of the week. From the first step of boiling egg noodles until al dente, to the aromatic sauté of garlic in bubbling butter and olive oil, every stage brings you closer to a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. Using simple, readily available ingredients—egg noodles, chicken breast, a handful of pantry staples—you’ll be amazed at how a few kitchen classics transform into a creamy, garlicky celebration of taste. This dish is beginner-friendly, taking just 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, and clocks in around 550 calories per serving, making it a balanced choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, with options to store leftovers for up to three days or freeze for later, it’s a recipe that works just as well for meal prep as it does for a spontaneous family feast.
Feel free to print this article or bookmark it now so you can revisit these steps whenever the craving for tender chicken, velvety noodles, and cheesy goodness strikes. You’ll also find a helpful FAQ below to answer common questions about ingredient swaps, spice variations, and troubleshooting tips. I’d love to hear how your Chicken Buttered Noodles turned out—drop a comment, share your favorite twist on the recipe, or ask any questions if you run into a snag in the kitchen. Your feedback and stories inspire me to keep sharing delicious, accessible recipes that bring joy and comfort to your table. Happy cooking!
Chicken Buttered Noodles
Description
This Chicken Buttered Noodles recipe features tender chicken simmered in a buttery, garlicky sauce tossed with noodles. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt the butter and add the olive oil over medium heat.
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Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
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Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add them to the skillet.
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Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden brown.
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Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for about 2 minutes to deglaze the skillet and incorporate the flavors.
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Add the cooked egg noodles into the skillet, gently tossing them to combine with the chicken.
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Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the mixture and continue to toss until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
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Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Note
- You can substitute the chicken broth with white wine for an added depth of flavor.
- For a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- This dish works wonderfully with other pasta types, such as fettuccine or linguine.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.
