Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple and comforting dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with rich noodles tossed in creamy butter. It’s a straightforward, homey meal that feels warm and satisfying on any day. The buttery noodles soak up all the delicious flavors from the chicken, making every bite a delight.
I love making this dish when I want something quick but still filling. The noodles are flexible—you can add a sprinkle of parsley or a little garlic powder to jazz them up if you like. The chicken usually gets a nice sear, which adds a crispy edge that contrasts perfectly with the soft noodles. It’s one of those meals where less really is more.
My favorite way to serve chicken with buttered noodles is alongside a simple green salad or steamed veggies. It’s a classic combo that never goes out of style. Every time I make it, it reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone’s chatting around the table, enjoying good food that’s both easy and heartwarming.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here because they cook quickly and stay tender. You can swap with thighs if you prefer juicier meat, just adjust cooking time.
Egg Noodles or Fettuccine: Egg noodles give a classic soft texture. Fettuccine is a nice substitute if you want a bit wider pasta. No egg noodles on hand? Try spaghetti or linguine instead.
Butter: Butter adds creaminess and rich flavor in the noodles. Unsalted butter gives more control over saltiness. If you want less fat, use olive oil, but butter really shines here.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds nice depth. If you don’t have parmesan, Pecorino Romano or a mild cheddar can work too.
Heavy Cream or Milk: For creamier noodles, a splash of heavy cream or milk is lovely. You can skip this for a lighter dish or substitute with broth if you want less richness.
How Do You Cook Chicken So It’s Tender and Juicy?
Cooking chicken breasts just right can be tricky—they can dry out fast. Here’s what I do:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Heat the oil in the pan until hot but not smoking. This helps create a nice golden crust.
- Cook the chicken over medium-high heat 5-7 minutes per side. Resist moving it too soon so it browns nicely.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is safe and juicy.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices reabsorb and keeps it tender when you slice.
This method keeps the chicken flavorful and moist, perfect to pair with the soft buttered noodles.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling noodles, making it easy to cook a good amount at once.
- Skillet or frying pan – helps you cook the chicken evenly and toss the noodles with butter.
- Tongs or pasta fork – makes it simple to toss the pasta and serve.
- Meat thermometer – optional but helpful to ensure chicken is cooked through without drying out.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing the cooked chicken before serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
- Mix in some grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a cheesy kick.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon or chopped fresh herbs like basil for brightness.
Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 8 ounces egg noodles or fettuccine pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- ¼ cup heavy cream or milk (optional for creamier noodles)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe usually takes about 25–30 minutes from start to finish. Cooking the noodles, preparing and cooking the chicken, then combining everything is quick and easy for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles or fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until just tender (al dente). Drain the noodles well and set them aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you like. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Buttered Noodles:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add the butter. Once melted, add the drained noodles and toss well to coat them in butter. If you want creamier noodles, stir in the heavy cream or milk now and heat until warmed through.
4. Combine and Serve:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, if using, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange them over the buttered noodles. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents extra moisture in the pan.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the chicken and noodles separately, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or butter to keep the noodles moist.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken and Buttered Noodles?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in short microwave bursts, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Substitute Pasta for the Egg Noodles?
Yes, you can use fettuccine, linguine, or even spaghetti if you don’t have egg noodles. Just cook according to package instructions and toss with butter in the same way.
