If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender strips of perfectly seasoned chicken with rich, garlicky butter-coated egg noodles, it’s an absolute game changer for weeknight dinners or casual family meals. The balance of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and with just a handful of straightforward ingredients, you’ll have a delicious home-cooked meal ready faster than you can say “comfort food.”
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing a special role to create that signature taste and texture. From the tender chicken to the silky butter and garlic coating the noodles, every item adds color, richness, and flavor to this classic dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1 pound): Provides juicy, tender protein that’s seasoned to perfection.
- Egg noodles (12 ounces): The perfect vehicle for carrying all the buttery, garlicky goodness.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Gives the noodles their rich, buttery flavor and a luscious finish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings a mix of herbs that complement the chicken perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a salty, nutty kick right before serving.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Brightens the dish with a fresh, vibrant touch.
How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re perfectly tender. Drain them and set aside. This step is crucial because noodles are the foundation of this recipe, and cooking them just right ensures they soak up that buttery flavor beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
While the noodles are cooking, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. The combination of olive oil and butter helps develop that glorious golden crust on the chicken, locking in the juicy flavor inside. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter. This step infuses the butter with a wonderful garlic aroma that will coat the noodles spectacularly.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked noodles to the garlic butter in the skillet and toss to coat every strand evenly. Then, return the cooked chicken back to the skillet, gently mixing everything to marry the flavors. Finally, sprinkle the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped parsley just before serving. These finishing touches lift the entire dish with a salty tang and a pop of green freshness.
How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is perfect to add vibrant color and fresh flavor. If you want to amp up the experience, a bit of extra Parmesan or a light drizzle of lemon juice can add brightness and nuance to the dish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a pop of color and crunch. Roasted vegetables or sautéed green beans also complement the richness of the chicken and buttered noodles, balancing out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this recipe on a warm plate with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat or alongside garlic bread to soak up any leftover buttery sauce. For a fun twist, place the chicken and noodles in a beautiful shallow bowl and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This recipe reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or a planned lunch.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and noodles in separate containers for up to 2 months. To maintain the best texture, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to revive the noodles’ moisture. Avoid microwaving at high heat, as this can dry out the dish. Stir frequently until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe and offer a juicier, more tender texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I add vegetables directly to the dish?
Definitely! Adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the skillet when you toss the noodles adds flavor and a nutritional boost.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta or noodle alternative. The rest of the recipe remains the same and just as tasty.
What can I do if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
A mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary makes a great substitute to bring that classic herby flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is genuinely one of those timeless dishes that feels like home no matter when you make it. Its simplicity is its charm, and the flavors are so comforting they’ll quickly earn a permanent place at your dinner table. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy of this delicious, easy-to-make meal with your loved ones.
Print
Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe features tender strips of chicken cooked with garlic and Italian seasoning, tossed with rich buttered egg noodles, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that’s family-friendly and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Noodles and Sauce
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: While the noodles cook, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Buttered Garlic Noodles: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss them well to coat with the butter and garlic mixture.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the noodles and gently mix to combine everything evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top, then toss lightly before serving.
Notes
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- You can substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
