There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of tender chicken paired with buttery noodles. This recipe for Delicious Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the perfect quick lunch idea that feels indulgent yet simple. Imagine twirling silky, butter-coated noodles on your fork while savoring bites of juicy, seasoned chicken—it’s the kind of meal that warms both your belly and your heart.
This dish has a timeless appeal. It’s one of those recipes I turn to on chilly afternoons or busy weekdays when I need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry, making it a versatile favorite. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your table!
The Story Behind the Recipe
Chicken and noodles—two staples that have been gracing tables for centuries. While buttered noodles originated as a simple side dish in European cuisine, they’ve evolved into a comforting base for countless meals. Pairing them with chicken adds protein and heartiness to this classic combo. It’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time.
For me, this recipe is a slice of nostalgia. Growing up, buttered noodles were a quick fix my mom would whip up between errands, often served alongside grilled chicken. Over time, I’ve added my own spin—seasoning the chicken with a blend of herbs and spices and tossing the noodles in just the right amount of butter. It’s still simple but feels a bit more grown-up.
Seasonally, this dish transitions beautifully. In colder months, it’s a cozy lunch that pairs perfectly with a cup of broth or tea. During summer, you can brighten it up with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon. Honestly, it’s one of those meals that feels right all year round.
Understanding the Ingredients
Chicken
For this recipe, I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but thighs work wonderfully too if you want a richer flavor. Look for fresh chicken with a pink hue and avoid any slimy texture—it’s a sign it’s past its prime. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut! For a vegetarian option, consider substituting with tofu or seitan.
Noodles
Egg noodles are my go-to for this recipe. Their soft texture complements the butter sauce perfectly. If you prefer something heartier, try fettuccine or tagliatelle. Gluten-free pasta is a fantastic alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Don’t forget to cook the noodles al dente—you want them to hold their shape and soak up the buttery goodness.
Butter
Butter is the star of the sauce, so choose a high-quality variety for the best flavor. European-style butter, which has a higher fat content, adds an extra level of richness. If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute with plant-based butter or olive oil.
Seasonings
Garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning create a balanced flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top are always a welcome addition.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this dish both simple and flavorful. And the best part? Most of these items are pantry staples, so you can whip this up anytime!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Medium saucepan for boiling noodles
- Tongs or spatula for handling chicken
- Colander for draining noodles
- Mixing bowl (optional, for tossing noodles)
If you don’t have a skillet, a heavy-bottomed pan works just as well. For budget-friendly options, look for non-stick pans—they’re easy to clean and perfect for this recipe. And don’t stress about fancy equipment; a fork can mix the noodles in the butter just fine!
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prepare the chicken: Season 2 chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450 g) with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Rub the seasonings evenly over the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Boil the noodles: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups (1 liter) of water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the butter sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to low and add 3 tbsp butter. Allow it to melt, then toss the drained noodles into the butter until they’re evenly coated.
- Combine and serve: Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and arrange them over the buttered noodles. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro tip: If your noodles seem dry, add a splash of pasta water to loosen them up—it works like magic!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Getting the chicken just right is key. To avoid dry chicken, keep the heat at medium and don’t overcook. If you’re still nervous, use a meat thermometer—it’s a lifesaver!
For buttery noodles, don’t skimp on butter. The noodles should glisten and have a silky texture. Also, make sure to toss them while the butter is still hot—it helps with even coating.
Timing is everything. Start cooking your noodles while the chicken is resting to keep everything hot and fresh. And for multitasking, prep your ingredients beforehand—it makes the process smoother.
Variations & Adaptations
- Low-carb version: Swap egg noodles for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
- Seasonal twist: Add sautéed mushrooms in fall or roasted cherry tomatoes in summer.
- Spicy kick: Mix in chili flakes or drizzle spicy honey over the chicken.
- Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with marinated tofu or roasted chickpeas.
- Herby addition: Toss noodles with fresh basil and lemon zest for a refreshing pop.
I’ve tried adding sautéed spinach to the noodles, and it’s a fantastic way to sneak in veggies without changing the flavor too much. Customize it to suit your taste—you really can’t go wrong!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of white wine complements the buttery flavors beautifully.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the noodles in a skillet with a touch of butter or olive oil to revive their silky texture. Avoid microwaving chicken for too long, as it can dry out.
Fun fact: The flavors deepen overnight, so don’t be surprised if you love the leftovers even more!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Each serving (approximately 1 cup of noodles and 4 oz of chicken) contains:
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~35 g
- Carbohydrates: ~30 g
- Fat: ~20 g
Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, supporting muscle growth and repair. Noodles provide energy-boosting carbs, while butter adds a touch of fat that helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Final Thoughts
This Delicious Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that anyone can make. It’s versatile, comforting, and perfect for lunch—or even dinner! Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is sure to please.
I love how customizable it is, and I hope you’ll enjoy putting your own spin on it. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Share your tips, tweaks, or photos—I’d love to hear from you!
Now grab your skillet and get cooking. Cozy lunches are calling your name!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Warm the noodles in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil, and reheat the chicken separately to avoid drying it out.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free pasta or noodles. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Add sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or steamed peas to the noodles for a veggie boost.
What herbs pair best with this recipe?
Fresh parsley, chives, basil, or thyme all complement the buttery noodles and seasoned chicken beautifully.