If you’re searching for a comforting, soul-satisfying dinner that’s sure to win everyone over, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the answer. This dish brings together juicy, golden-browned chicken and silky, buttery noodles for the perfect weeknight meal. It’s unfussy yet delicious, hearty but never heavy, and the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, the simple flavors and cozy aroma of Chicken with Buttered Noodles will have everyone racing to the dinner table.

Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken with Buttered Noodles is how each ingredient shines to build delicious layers of flavor, savoriness, and just the right amount of richness. Most are pantry or fridge staples, so you won’t have to run out for anything fancy to enjoy this timeless classic.

Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option; boneless works best for quicker cooking.
Egg noodles: Their broad, twirl-able strands soak up all that lovely buttery sauce, but any tender pasta will do in a pinch.
Butter: The heart and soul of this recipe—use good-quality butter for the most decadent, silky noodles.
Garlic: Just a couple of cloves add a warm, savory depth that truly elevates the entire dish.
Chicken broth: A splash infuses the noodles with extra savoriness and keeps them luscious.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that let each ingredient’s natural flavor come through.
Olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken until golden-brown and delicious.
Parmesan cheese (optional): For those who love a cheesy finish, a sprinkle of Parm is never out of place.

How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry with paper towels and seasoning it generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Sear on both sides until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and let it rest while you prepare the noodles—this brief rest keeps the meat juicy and tender.

Step 2: Boil the Noodles

While the chicken cooks, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until they’re just al dente. Drain well, reserving a splash of the cooking water; the starchy liquid can help loosen up the sauce if you need it later.

Step 3: Make the Buttery Sauce

Return your skillet to the stove and lower the heat. Melt the butter, add minced garlic, and let it sizzle gently for a minute or so—just enough to take the raw edge off. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any golden bits from the pan; these “fond” bits are pure flavor gold. Let the mixture bubble for a minute and turn off the heat.

Step 4: Toss the Noodles

Add the cooked noodles to your luscious butter sauce. Toss with tongs to fully coat every strand. If things seem a little sticky, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. You want the noodles to be shiny, buttery, and perfectly seasoned.

Step 5: Finish and Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Slice the rested chicken into thick strips or bite-sized chunks—your choice! Arrange on a platter of buttered noodles, sprinkle parsley and (if you love cheese as much as I do) a handful of freshly grated Parmesan. Chicken with Buttered Noodles is best served right away, steaming hot and wonderfully fragrant.

How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

For a burst of color and a hint of freshness, scatter chopped parsley or a mix of soft herbs over the top. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and cuts through the richness beautifully. If you’re feeling fancy, a few shavings of Parmesan, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, or a dusting of cracked black pepper can take your serving of Chicken with Buttered Noodles to the next level.

Side Dishes

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is filling on its own, but I love serving it alongside crisp green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple mixed salad dressed with vinaigrette. A chunk of crusty bread is heavenly for mopping up every last drop of butter sauce! For a heartier combination, try pairing with roasted root vegetables on a chilly night.

Creative Ways to Present

You can style Chicken with Buttered Noodles family-style in a big bowl for everyone to dig into or plate it individually for a cozy bistro vibe. Tuck in a few roasted tomatoes for extra color, or spoon the noodles into a shallow bowl with sliced chicken artfully fanned on top. For fun, you can swirl the noodles into little nests and top each with a slice of chicken—so elegant for dinner parties!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken with Buttered Noodles keeps surprisingly well. Let everything cool before transferring to an airtight container, then refrigerate. The noodles will soak up even more flavor as they rest, though they might soften a bit. Enjoy within 3 to 4 days.

Freezing

If you’re planning to freeze, separate the chicken and noodles for best results. Place cooled chicken and noodles in freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. For optimum texture, undercook the noodles slightly if you know you’ll be freezing ahead.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the noodles and warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring often. Chicken can be warmed in the same pan or in the microwave—just until heated through. Add a pat of extra butter to revive that glossy, rich texture. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or Parmesan before serving to freshen up the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for busy nights. Just shred or slice the meat and toss it with the buttered noodles in Step 5. It saves time and still delivers wonderful flavor alongside those silky noodles.

What type of noodles work best?

Egg noodles are traditional for Chicken with Buttered Noodles, but you can use any broad or curly pasta you love, such as pappardelle or even fusilli in a pinch. The key is a noodle with enough surface to soak up all that luscious butter sauce.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta—there are some fantastic egg noodle alternatives made from rice or corn. Double-check your chicken broth to ensure it’s gluten-free, and you’re good to go!

Is it possible to make Chicken with Buttered Noodles lighter?

Definitely. Use skinless chicken breasts, reduce the butter a bit, and ramp up with fresh herbs and lemon zest for flavor without extra richness. You’ll still have a comforting, satisfying meal, just a little lighter on the waistline.

Can I add vegetables to the noodles?

Of course! Tender spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli fit beautifully with the flavors of Chicken with Buttered Noodles. Just fold them into the buttery noodles right before serving for extra color, nutrition, and a new twist on a classic.

Final Thoughts

Few dinners are as welcoming and comforting as Chicken with Buttered Noodles. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight at home or a relaxed get-together, this dish truly brings people together—one forkful at a time. Give it a try and watch how it delights everyone at your table!