Chicken Buttered Noodles is a simple, comforting dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken and buttery, soft noodles in the best way possible. The butter melts into every strand of pasta, making each bite rich and smooth, while the chicken adds a satisfying protein boost. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love how easy this recipe is to make on a busy day when you want something quick but still tasty. Sometimes, I like to toss in a little garlic or sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a bit of extra flavor and color. It’s super versatile, so you can easily add veggies like peas or carrots if you want to sneak in some greens. The buttery noodles are the real star here, though—they’re so comforting that no one ever skips the seconds.
My favorite way to enjoy Chicken Buttered Noodles is straight from the pan, served with a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad. It’s also great as leftovers because the flavors get even better after a day. Honestly, this dish reminds me of cozy family dinners when everyone’s relaxed and enjoying good, familiar food. It’s a recipe that feels like home every single time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg noodles: These are great for their soft texture and ability to hold the buttery sauce well. If you can’t find egg noodles, try fettuccine or wide ribbon pasta for a similar feel.
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender if not overcooked. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be juicier and add a bit more flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control seasoning, but you can use salted butter if that’s what you have—just reduce added salt. Butter is key for creating a rich sauce that coats the noodles perfectly.
Olive oil: Used to cook the chicken, olive oil adds a mild flavor and helps prevent sticking. You can swap it for vegetable or canola oil if needed.
Herbs & seasonings: Garlic powder and dried Italian herbs add depth without overwhelming. Fresh parsley is a nice touch for color and fresh flavor but can be skipped or replaced with basil or chives.
How Can I Cook Chicken So It Stays Juicy and Golden?
Cooking chicken just right is key to this dish. Follow these tips:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to get a good sear.
- Season both sides well before cooking.
- Heat the pan and oil first until hot, then add chicken for a nice golden crust.
- Cook chicken 5-7 minutes per side on medium heat, depending on thickness.
- Avoid moving it too much while cooking to let it brown.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep juices inside before slicing.
These steps help the chicken stay tender and flavorful, making your buttered noodles even better!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – To cook the noodles easily and quickly.
- Skillet or frying pan – For cooking the chicken and making the butter sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – To toss the noodles in the butter sauce.
- Tongs or a fork – To flip and slice the cooked chicken.
- Knife and cutting board – For slicing the chicken and chopping parsley (if using).
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or ham for a different protein; it cooks quickly and adds new flavor.
- Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese just before serving for extra richness.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or dill instead of parsley for a different fresh note.
How to Make Chicken Buttered Noodles?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles and Chicken:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or parsley)
For the Sauce and Garnish:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes total: roughly 10 minutes to prep and cook the chicken, 8-10 minutes to boil the noodles, and a few minutes to put everything together and serve. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Egg Noodles:
Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are tender but still firm (al dente). Drain the noodles well and set them aside.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
While the noodles cook, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Butter Sauce and Combine:
Turn the heat to low and add the butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, stirring gently and scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken—that’s full of flavor! Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing them gently so they are fully coated in the buttery sauce.
4. Serve:
Slice the rested chicken into strips and lay them on top of the buttered noodles. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like for a fresh, pretty touch. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Chicken Buttered Noodles!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Can I Add Vegetables to Chicken Buttered Noodles?
Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms work great. Add them to the noodles when tossing with butter to warm them through without overcooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a small splash of butter or olive oil to keep the noodles moist.
What Pasta Can I Use Instead of Egg Noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles, use fettuccine, wide ribbon pasta, or even spaghetti. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.
