Chicken Buttered Noodles is a simple and comforting dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with warm, buttery noodles. The noodles soak up all the rich, buttery goodness, making each bite smooth and satisfying. It’s a straightforward meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for when you want something easy and tasty.
I love making this dish because it doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps, yet it always turns out delicious. Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a little cheese on top to give it a bit of extra flavor. It’s one of those meals where the basic ingredients come together to feel like something special without much effort.
My favorite way to serve Chicken Buttered Noodles is with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness of the butter. It’s great for a quick weeknight dinner or even a comforting lunch. I’ve noticed that everyone who tries it usually asks for seconds, and it’s become a go-to recipe whenever I need a warm, easy meal that the whole family enjoys.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg noodles: These provide a soft and slightly chewy base. If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use any broad pasta like fettuccine or tagliatelle. For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Chicken breasts: I like using boneless, skinless breasts for quick cooking. You could swap for chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness, just watch the cooking time.
Butter: Butter gives this dish its rich, creamy taste. Unsalted butter lets you control salt levels better. If needed, you can use olive oil alone, but the flavor won’t be as buttery.
Garlic powder and dried parsley: These simple seasonings add nice flavor without overpowering. Fresh garlic or fresh parsley can be used instead if you prefer a bolder and fresher taste.
How Do You Get the Chicken Nice and Golden Without Drying It Out?
Cooking chicken just right is key here. Follow these tips for juicy, flavorful pieces:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning; moisture prevents good browning.
- Heat the oil and butter in the pan until hot but not smoking before adding chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in a single layer so it browns evenly.
- Cook on medium-high heat, about 4-5 minutes per side, without moving the chicken too much.
- Remove chicken once cooked through and let it rest briefly before slicing.
This method locks in juices and gives you a beautiful golden crust that adds great flavor to your noodles.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – Perfect for boiling the noodles quickly and easily.
- Skillet or frying pan – Great for cooking the chicken and tossing everything together.
- Cooking tongs or spatula – Useful for turning the chicken and mixing the noodles.
- Measuring spoons and cup – Helps in measuring seasonings and liquids accurately.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese for extra richness.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added veggies and flavor.
- Use cooked bacon bits or crispy pancetta for a smoky, savory boost.
- Season with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Chicken Buttered Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup chicken broth or water (optional, for a bit of sauce)
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or red bell pepper slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes in total, including boiling the noodles, cooking the chicken, and tossing everything together. It’s a quick, easy meal you can have on the table in less than half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until they’re just tender (al dente). Drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare the chicken.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Butter the Noodles and Combine:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the cooked noodles and toss to coat them evenly with the buttery sauce. If you want a little extra sauce, pour in the chicken broth or water and stir gently.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet or plate the noodles and top them with the chicken strips. Garnish with fresh parsley or red bell pepper slices for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your cozy bowl of chicken buttered noodles!
Can I Use Different Pasta Instead of Egg Noodles?
Yes! Any pasta like fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti can work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
How Do I Keep the Chicken Juicy?
Make sure not to overcrowd the pan and cook the chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown on each side. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can cook the chicken and noodles separately and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat together in a skillet with a bit of butter or broth for best results.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, water works fine or you can use vegetable broth for added flavor. Just keep the amount the same to loosen the noodles slightly.