Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple, comforting dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken and warm, buttery noodles. The noodles are soft and coated in just the right amount of butter, making every bite smooth and satisfying. It’s one of those meals that feels cozy and familiar, perfect for any night when you want something easy but tasty.
I love making this dish on busy days because it comes together quickly, and the ingredients are ones I usually have on hand. The chicken adds a nice protein boost, and when paired with the smooth buttered noodles, it’s a meal that everyone at the table tends to enjoy. Plus, I sometimes like to toss in a little parsley or sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the top to give it a bit more flavor without any extra fuss.
One of my favorite ways to serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles is with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. It balances the richness of the butter and keeps things light and bright. Whenever I make this dish, it reminds me of simple home-cooked dinners that feel like a warm hug on the plate—comfort food at its best.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: Traditional egg noodles offer a soft, silky texture that pairs well with creamy sauce. If you don’t have egg noodles, try fettuccine or wide pasta ribbons for a similar effect.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender. If preferred, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Butter: Butter is essential here for richness and coating the noodles. You can swap part of the butter for olive oil if you want a lighter taste.
Heavy Cream: This creates the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, use whole milk or half-and-half. If you want a dairy-free version, coconut milk can work with a slightly different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but it adds a nice touch of saltiness and depth. Nutritional yeast is a good substitute for a dairy-free alternative.
How Can I Get Tender, Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Cooking chicken breast without drying it out can be tricky. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the pan and oil well before adding chicken to get a nice sear.
- Cook on medium-high heat, about 5-7 minutes each side, without moving it too much.
- Check doneness by cutting into the thickest part—it should be white and opaque, no pink.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep juices locked in.
Resting is key! It helps the chicken stay moist and tender when served.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I use it to cook the noodles easily and quickly.
- Saucepan or skillet – perfect for making the creamy sauce and cooking the chicken in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir the sauce and turn the chicken without scratching the pan.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – to check that the chicken reaches a safe and tender temperature.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing the chicken and chopping parsley for garnish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use different proteins like turkey or shrimp instead of chicken, for variety.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add some greens and earthy flavor.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a different cheesy twist.
- Season the sauce with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some extra flavor.
Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend 10-12 minutes boiling the noodles, cooking the chicken about 12-14 minutes, and a few minutes preparing the creamy sauce. It’s quick enough for a weekday dinner!
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 the package instructions until tender but still firm (al dente). Drain the noodles well, then toss them with 1 tablespoon of butter to keep them silky and delicious. Set aside and keep warm.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
While the noodles are cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice the chicken into strips.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce and Combine:
Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and grated Parmesan if using. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the buttered noodles to the skillet and toss gently so they’re coated evenly with the creamy sauce.
4. Serve:
Plate the creamy, buttered noodles, then arrange the sliced chicken strips on top. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve your comforting Chicken with Buttered Noodles warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and better texture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, use whole milk or half-and-half. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk, but keep in mind it will add a slight coconut flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and buttered noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can cook the noodles and chicken ahead, then prepare the sauce just before serving. Reheat everything together gently for the best flavor and texture.