Chicken Buttered Noodles is a simple and comforting dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken and soft noodles all coated in a rich, buttery sauce. It’s one of those meals that feels like a big warm hug on a plate, with the buttery noodles stealing the spotlight and the chicken adding hearty goodness. The flavors are straightforward but so satisfying, making it a great go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you want something cozy.
I love making this dish because it’s quick to put together and always hits the spot. A little tip I’ve picked up is to use plenty of butter so the noodles get that lovely silky texture that makes every bite so enjoyable. Sometimes, I’ll sprinkle in a bit of parsley or parmesan to add a little extra flavor, but honestly, it’s perfect just as it is. It’s one of those meals that never seems to get old in my house!
For me, Chicken Buttered Noodles is best served with a simple side salad or steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s the kind of dinner that comforts you and fills you up without fuss or fancy ingredients. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded of laid-back family dinners where everyone can relax and just enjoy good food together. It’s an easy, happy dish that always brings smiles around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg noodles: These give the dish its soft, pillowy texture. If you can’t find egg noodles, wide pasta like pappardelle or fettuccine works well too. For gluten-free options, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Chicken breasts: They cook quickly and stay tender. You can swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer juicier meat. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut too!
Butter: Butter is essential for that rich, silky sauce coating the noodles. Use unsalted butter to control salt better, but salted can work too. For a lighter version, try olive oil, though the flavor will be different.
Garlic and herbs: Garlic adds a lovely aroma and depth. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can substitute if needed. Dried thyme or Italian seasoning adds earthy notes—you can use fresh herbs if you have them for a brighter flavor.
How Can You Cook Perfectly Juicy Chicken for This Dish?
The chicken needs to be golden outside and juicy inside. Here’s how to get that right every time:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps it brown better.
- Use medium-high heat so the chicken sears nicely without steaming.
- Cook 5-7 minutes per side—don’t rush it! Flip only once for a good crust.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps juices locked inside.
Following these steps makes slicing easier and keeps the chicken moist and flavorful on your noodles.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I use it to cook the noodles easily and quickly. It’s big enough so they don’t stick together.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking and browning the chicken and making the garlic butter sauce.
- Chef’s knife – I like a sharp one to slice the cooked chicken into even strips without any fuss.
- Cutting board – keeps your work surface safe and gives you a stable spot to cut the chicken.
- Measuring spoons – handy to measure the butter, garlic, and seasonings so everything stays balanced.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch up the protein: use shrimp, turkey, or even sautéed mushrooms for different flavors and textures.
- Add some cheese: sprinkle grated parmesan or mozzarella on top for extra richness.
- Boost the veggies: toss in sautéed spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrients.
- Spice it up: add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Chicken Buttered Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Sauce and Seasoning:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking chicken)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Estimate
This dish takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes cooking and draining the noodles, 10-15 minutes to cook and slice the chicken, and a few minutes to finish the sauce and combine everything.
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 directions until just tender (al dente). Drain the noodles, then toss them with 2 tablespoons of butter while they’re still warm. This will keep them from sticking and add rich flavor.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
While the noodles cook, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce and Combine:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the buttered noodles back into the skillet and toss well to coat them evenly with the garlic butter sauce. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve the noodles topped with the sliced chicken and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Chicken Buttered Noodles!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to help it brown nicely in the skillet.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and noodles separately, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter to keep them moist before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm on the stove over low heat or microwave until heated through, adding a little butter if the noodles seem dry.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Buttered Noodles?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance out the richness of the buttered noodles.