Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something easy yet satisfying for the family, this recipe is sure to deliver. Juicy, pan-seared chicken paired with perfectly cooked noodles coated in rich, melted butter creates a dish that is simple, delicious, and comforting.
The buttery noodles melt in your mouth, while the chicken provides a savory and tender balance that makes every bite a treat. What makes this meal even better is that it requires just a few basic ingredients, making it ideal for when you’re short on time but want something full of flavor. Whether served with a side of veggies or on its own, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.
2. Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
3. Directions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
- Cook the chicken: While the noodles are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the buttered noodles: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Stir for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the butter. If the noodles seem dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water to create a creamier texture.
- Slice the chicken: While the noodles are being tossed in the butter, slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Combine and serve: Once the noodles are well-coated in butter, serve them onto plates, topped with sliced chicken. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot.
4. How to Prepare
This recipe is incredibly adaptable. If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the noodles. For added flavor, experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil.
If you want to boost the nutritional value, you can toss in some sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli when combining the noodles and chicken. This will add extra texture and color to the dish.
To make the chicken even more flavorful, you can marinate it in a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe makes 2 servings, but can easily be doubled if you’re cooking for more people.
7. FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish! They will add more flavor and tenderness. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine. The recipe works well with most types of pasta.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free butter and skip the Parmesan cheese to make this dish dairy-free. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.
4. How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
You can add vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms to the noodles while cooking them. Sautéing them with the garlic and butter will infuse them with great flavor.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little butter or water if needed to refresh the dish.
8. Conclusion
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and incredibly tasty. The combination of tender chicken and rich, buttery noodles makes for a meal that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or something easy yet impressive for family or friends, this dish delivers.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a flavorful, hearty meal that will please even the pickiest eaters. So, next time you’re craving something cozy and delicious, try this Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe and enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner.