If you’re searching for a comforting, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is exactly what you want to make tonight. It’s a delightful blend of tender, juicy chicken paired with silky, buttery egg noodles, all elevated by the subtle flavors of garlic and Parmesan. This recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both special and deeply nourishing, perfect for cozy weeknights or when you want a quick yet impressive dish on the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the buttery richness to the fresh pop of parsley, every element enhances the dish beautifully.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for easy cooking and slicing into tender, juicy pieces.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity, smooth base for cooking the chicken evenly without overpowering flavors.
- Butter: Divided use ensures that both the chicken and noodles get that luscious, creamy coating.
- Egg noodles: Perfect for soaking up butter and cheese, delivering a satisfying bite every time.
- Garlic clove: Minced fresh garlic introduces a gentle aromatic punch to elevate the buttered noodles.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and creamy texture when stirred into the noodles.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green freshness that brightens the dish both visually and taste-wise.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance every component without stealing the spotlight.
How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the egg noodles. Cooking them until al dente ensures they maintain a perfect tender bite that won’t fall apart once tossed with butter and cheese. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside to be dressed up shortly.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides to bring out their natural flavor. Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. This combo of fats helps achieve a golden, slightly crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes per side until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Patience here rewards you with perfectly cooked chicken every time. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing—this keeps all the juices locked inside.
Step 3: Make the Buttered Noodles
Using the same skillet with its flavorful drippings, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for just one minute to release its scent without burning. Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet, making sure they soak up all that garlic-infused butter goodness. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like, fresh parsley. This step transforms simple noodles into a surprisingly rich and delicious side that perfectly complements the chicken.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Place a generous helping of buttered noodles on each plate and top with the perfectly sliced chicken breasts. The combination of tender chicken and creamy noodles creates a harmonious taste that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy right away for the best experience.
How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a vibrant dash of color but also a subtle herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. You can also add a light dusting of extra Parmesan or even a few cracked black peppercorns for a touch of visual and flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when paired with something green and crisp. Steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or fresh peas make great companions, providing freshness and a boost of nutrients that round out this hearty meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the sliced chicken fanned out over the noodles for an elegant look that’s still homey and approachable. Another idea is to place the noodles in a cozy nest in the center of the plate and top with a sprig of parsley or a lemon wedge for an extra zesty touch that wakes up the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining good flavor and texture for easy weekday lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately from the noodles. Freeze the chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months. The noodles don’t freeze as well due to the butter and cheese, which may separate and become grainy.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet or oven to keep it moist. Warm the noodles in a pan over low heat with a little extra butter or splash of water to revive their creamy texture without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and absorb butter beautifully, you can swap them for fettuccine, pappardelle, or even small shells depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while still giving you delicious results. Just shred or slice the chicken and add it to the buttered noodles when ready to serve.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I add vegetables to make it a one-pan meal?
Definitely! Adding steamed broccoli florets, peas, or even spinach tossed in at the last minute gives the dish more color, nutrition, and even better flavor variety.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the chicken?
Reheat the chicken gently over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving at high power as it can make the meat tough and dry.
Final Thoughts
Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is such a heartwarming dish that never fails to deliver comfort and smiles at the dinner table. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to impress guests or treat yourself. I cannot wait for you to try this recipe and make it one of your own favorite go-to meals because once you do, it just might become a classic in your kitchen too!
Print
Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
A comforting and simple dish featuring pan-seared chicken breasts served over rich, buttery egg noodles tossed with garlic and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Noodles
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook Chicken: Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rest Chicken: Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with garlic butter and toss to coat evenly.
- Finish: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if using. Serve the buttered noodles topped with sliced chicken breasts.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Add steamed broccoli or peas to the noodles to make it a complete meal.
