If you’re looking for the perfect recipe to warm your soul and fill your belly, this Delicious Chicken with Buttered Noodles is calling your name. Imagine tender, juicy chicken paired with buttery, garlicky noodles that practically melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate—simple, satisfying, and oh-so comforting.
This recipe is worth making because it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to serve guests. Plus, buttered noodles have such a nostalgic charm, don’t they? Growing up, they were the ultimate comfort food for me, and this dish is a grown-up twist on that classic. Let’s dive into all the reasons you’ll love this recipe!
The Story Behind Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Chicken with buttered noodles isn’t just a random pairing—it’s a dish with roots in simplicity and comfort. While buttered noodles themselves have been a staple in European cuisines for centuries (especially in German and Polish kitchens), pairing them with chicken became a popular choice in American households during the mid-20th century. Families loved the combination because it was affordable, easy to prepare, and downright delicious.
For me, this recipe brings back memories of Sunday dinners at my grandma’s house. She always served buttered noodles with roasted chicken, and we’d fight over the crispy skin and the last spoonful of buttery sauce. Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to make it just right—adding garlic, a touch of parsley, and perfectly seasoned chicken that’s pan-seared for maximum flavor.
This dish also feels wonderfully seasonal. In the cooler months, it’s pure comfort with its warm, rich flavors. In spring or summer, you can lighten it up with a squeeze of fresh lemon or some bright veggies on the side. No matter the season, it’s a meal that brings people together.
Let’s Talk Ingredients
Chicken
For the chicken, boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them, while breasts are leaner and cook quickly. If you can, look for organic or free-range chicken for the best flavor. And don’t forget to season generously with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika for color and warmth.
Noodles
Egg noodles are the classic choice for buttered noodles, thanks to their soft texture and slightly rich flavor. You can substitute with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Cook them al dente and save a bit of the pasta water—it’ll help create a silky sauce.
Butter
Here’s the star of the show! Use real, unsalted butter for the most control over seasoning. If you’re feeling fancy, you can use European-style butter for extra creaminess. For a dairy-free option, swap with plant-based butter or olive oil.
Garlic
Fresh garlic is a must here. It adds depth and a little zing to the butter sauce. Mince it finely or use a garlic press for convenience. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder will work in a pinch.
Parsley
Fresh parsley brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color. You can substitute it with chives or even dill for a different flavor twist. If you’re not a fan of herbs, feel free to skip this step—it’s optional but lovely.
Optional Add-Ins
Want to make it extra special? Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. These little extras can really take the dish to the next level.
Equipment You’ll Need
- A large skillet or frying pan for cooking the chicken
- A pot for boiling the noodles
- Tongs for flipping the chicken
- A colander for draining the noodles
- Microplane or garlic press for mincing garlic
If you don’t have a skillet, a heavy-bottomed saucepan will work. And for those who love efficiency, a pasta pot with a built-in strainer can save time. Pro tip: always sharpen your knives before handling chicken—it makes prep so much easier!
How to Make Delicious Chicken with Buttered Noodles
- Prepare the chicken: Season 2 lbs (900 g) of chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp paprika. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest.
- Cook the noodles: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the noodles.
- Make the butter sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 4 tbsp unsalted butter and let it melt. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat. Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir in 2 tbsp chopped parsley.
- Serve: Slice the chicken and arrange it on top of the buttered noodles. Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.
This recipe takes about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy weeknights. And trust me, the smells coming from your kitchen while you cook will make everyone impatient for dinner!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are some tried-and-true tips to make this recipe foolproof:
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure a nice sear.
- Use room-temperature butter: It melts more evenly and prevents the sauce from separating.
- Season generously: Taste as you go—this dish shines with bold flavors.
- Let the chicken rest: Resting allows the juices to redistribute for tender, juicy meat.
- Save the pasta water: It’s like liquid gold for creating a silky sauce.
And if you accidentally over-salt the noodles, just add a splash of cream or a bit of plain yogurt to mellow it out. Cooking is all about adjusting and experimenting!
Variations & Adaptations
- Vegetarian version: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or grilled tofu.
- Low-carb option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle with hot chili oil.
- Seasonal flair: Toss in roasted vegetables like asparagus in spring or butternut squash in fall.
- Kid-friendly: Skip the garlic and parsley, and serve with a side of applesauce.
Personally, I love adding a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness—try it and see what you think!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli on the side. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea works perfectly.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the noodles to prevent them from drying out. Unfortunately, this dish doesn’t freeze well due to the butter sauce, but honestly, it’s so delicious you probably won’t have leftovers anyway!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~28 g
- Fat: ~18 g
- Carbohydrates: ~40 g
The chicken provides lean protein, while the noodles offer energy-boosting carbs. Garlic is packed with antioxidants, and parsley adds vitamin K and C. If you opt for whole-grain pasta, you’ll get extra fiber, too!
Conclusion
There’s something magical about this Easy Chicken with Buttered Noodles. It’s comforting, flavorful, and simple—all the things you want in a go-to dinner recipe. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
I love this recipe because it’s one of those meals that always feels special, whether I’m making it for my family or hosting friends. If you try it, don’t forget to leave a comment below—I’d love to hear how you customize it! And if you’re feeling generous, share this recipe with someone who could use a little comfort food in their life.
Happy cooking, and remember—sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly in this recipe.
What’s the best type of noodles for this dish?
Egg noodles are the classic choice, but you can use fettuccine, spaghetti, or gluten-free pasta if needed.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of regular butter.
How do I prevent the butter sauce from separating?
Make sure to melt the butter over medium heat and stir constantly.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs wonderfully with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.