Chicken with Buttered Noodles is such a simple and comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The tender pieces of chicken pair perfectly with soft, buttery noodles that melt in your mouth. It’s the kind of meal that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up on any busy day.
I love making this when I want something quick but still cozy and delicious. The butter sauce on the noodles is buttery without being heavy, and it’s easy to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a bit of garlic for a little extra flavor. It always reminds me of family dinners where everyone’s relaxed and happy.
My favorite way to serve this is with a simple side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad to add a bit of color and crunch. It’s also great with a squeeze of lemon over the chicken to brighten things up. This meal never gets old in our house, and I’m sure it will become a go-to for you too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wide Egg Noodles: These noodles hold sauce well and have a nice, soft texture. If you can’t find wide egg noodles, pappardelle or fettuccine work great too.
Chicken Breast: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender in the sauce. You can use chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat, just adjust cooking time slightly.
Butter: It’s essential for that rich, smooth flavor in the noodles and sauce. If you want a lighter option, use olive oil, but the buttery flavor will be less pronounced.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty taste to the sauce. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are fine substitutes if you’re out of Parmesan.
How Can I Make the Sauce Creamy Without It Breaking?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky if it splits. Here are my tips:
- Use heavy cream for stability; it thickens nicely when simmered gently.
- Don’t boil the sauce after adding cream; keep it at a low simmer to avoid curdling.
- Add the cheese slowly and stir constantly so it melts evenly into the sauce.
- Cooking the garlic and onions gently before adding broth brings out flavor without bitterness.
Following these steps helps create a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the chicken and noodles perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – Great for boiling the noodles quickly and evenly. I like it because it’s spacious and easy to stir.
- Large skillet – Perfect for cooking the chicken and simmering the sauce. It allows enough space to toss everything together.
- Cooking spoon and tongs – Useful for stirring ingredients and turning the chicken pieces without breaking them apart.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To measure out ingredients accurately, ensuring the sauce is just right.
- Grater – For freshly grated Parmesan, which melts smoothly into the sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist that cooks quickly.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Stir in sautéed spinach or kale to add greens and a healthy boost.
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of nutmeg in the cream sauce for a little extra spice or warmth.
Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and boiling the noodles, then about 20-25 minutes cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce. It’s a straightforward, quick meal that you can have ready on any weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and toss them with 1 tablespoon of butter so they stay flavorful and don’t stick together. Set them aside while you prepare the rest.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring now and then, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce and Combine:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook it for 2-3 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Then, add the heavy cream and simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken a little. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Finish the Dish:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the creamy sauce. Add the buttered noodles and gently toss everything together so the noodles soak up the sauce. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top for a beautiful finish. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting dish!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture in the pan, which can prevent proper browning.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk instead, but the sauce will be less rich and may be thinner. To thicken, you might add a small sprinkle of flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water while simmering.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the noodles and chicken separately and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, warm the sauce and combine all elements together on the stove for a fresh, delicious meal.