If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that’s both simple and satisfying, this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. With tender, juicy chicken nestled alongside buttery, garlicky egg noodles and just the right touch of Parmesan and fresh parsley, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering, this recipe brings together basic ingredients in a way that’s effortlessly delicious and downright addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy butter that makes the noodles irresistibly rich to the fresh garlic that adds a fragrant zing, these simple staples come together beautifully.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Choose fresh, boneless chicken breasts for juicy, tender protein that cooks quickly.
- 8 oz egg noodles: Classic egg noodles offer a silky texture that perfectly soaks up the buttery garlic sauce.
- 1/2 cup butter: This is the heart of the recipe, delivering rich flavor and luscious mouthfeel.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a punch of aroma and complexity to every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and noodles.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish that elevates the dish instantly.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of bright, fresh herbs lends a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Begin by boiling your egg noodles according to the package directions until they’re perfectly tender. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and set aside, so they’re ready to soak up the delicious butter sauce later.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the noodles cook, lightly season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple step is essential for building flavor right from the start, ensuring each bite is juicy and perfectly seasoned.
Step 3: Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter slowly until it’s bubbling. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, releasing that wonderful aroma that signals something amazing is underway.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet with the garlic butter. Cook them until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust on each side and are cooked through—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Step 5: Slice the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it into strips. This makes for easier eating and helps the chicken mingle well with the noodles and sauce when combined later.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and add the cooked egg noodles. Toss everything together gently, coating the noodles in the buttery garlic sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and scatter freshly chopped parsley for a perfect finishing touch. Serve this hot, straight from the skillet, for best enjoyment.
How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and flavor, fresh garnishes like minced parsley or even a little extra Parmesan cheese are ideal. They add color, freshness, and an inviting aroma that make the dish look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite hearty on its own but can be paired wonderfully with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus. These lighter sides add balance to the richness of the buttered noodles and chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family meal or casual dinner party, serve the chicken strips over a large platter of noodles topped with Parmesan and parsley. Alternatively, portion it into individual bowls and offer extra Parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes for guests to customize.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for easy next-day meals that still retain much of their original flavor and texture.
Freezing
While you can freeze the cooked chicken and noodles, it’s best to do so without the fresh parsley garnish and Parmesan cheese, which can lose their texture and taste upon thawing. Wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn and use within 1 month for optimal quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and maintain that buttery, creamy texture we love.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and have a lovely texture for this dish, you can swap in fettuccine, linguine, or even wide pasta ribbons depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic or can I use garlic powder?
Fresh garlic provides the best flavor and aroma, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be substituted. Use about 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste, but keep in mind fresh garlic makes the dish more vibrant.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To lighten it up, try using a smaller amount of butter or substituting with olive oil, and opt for whole wheat or veggie noodles. You can also add steamed veggies directly into the skillet for extra nutrition.
Can I cook the chicken ahead and reheat it with the noodles?
Yes, cooking chicken ahead is a great time saver. Just make sure to slice and combine it with freshly buttered noodles when ready to serve to keep flavors fresh and the texture appealing.
What type of Parmesan cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano is ideal for its rich, nutty flavor. Pre-grated store-bought Parmesan works fine in a pinch but tends to have a less intense taste and different texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a simple Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe that brings comfort and joy with every bite. It’s easy to prepare, uses ingredients you probably already have, and delivers that perfect blend of buttery, garlicky goodness paired with tender chicken. If you haven’t tried this classic yet, trust me—you’re in for a delicious treat that feels like home.
Print
Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breast cooked in buttery garlic sauce, served over rich buttered egg noodles topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup butter
Noodles
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook until browned on both sides and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Slice Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and slice into strips. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet.
- Toss with Noodles: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the chicken. Toss thoroughly to combine, coating the noodles and chicken in the buttery garlic sauce.
- Add Parmesan and Garnish: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use freshly minced garlic for best flavor; garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
- For extra richness, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the skillet when tossing noodles.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken to ensure neat strips.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish but can be omitted or substituted with fresh basil or chives.
