If you’re searching for a comforting, timeless meal that never fails to satisfy, this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. Combining tender, juicy chicken breasts with silky egg noodles bathed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. Easy enough for weeknight cooking but impressive enough for guests, it brings together simple ingredients in a way that highlights their best qualities and leaves you craving seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential. Each one plays a special role, from the buttery richness to the fresh pop of parsley, ensuring the Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe hits all the right notes for flavor, texture, and color.
- 2 chicken breasts: The lean protein base that cooks evenly and stays juicy with proper seasoning and technique.
- 8 oz egg noodles: Their tender, slightly chewy texture pairs perfectly with the buttery sauce.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Divided use allows for a rich, creamy sauce and a golden sear on the chicken.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic depth and savory punch that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Creates a luscious sauce while bringing additional subtle savory flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances and balances all the ingredients.
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color to brighten the plate.
How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start by preparing the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are perfectly tender but still have a slight bite. Once cooked, drain them well to avoid any excess water that could dilute the buttery sauce later.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
While the noodles are cooking, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted, then add the chicken. Cooking for about 6 to 7 minutes per side will give you beautifully golden, cooked-through breasts that remain juicy inside.
Step 3: Rest and Slice the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful when sliced.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic. Cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute, making sure not to burn the garlic or it will become bitter. This step gives the sauce that incredible garlicky aroma that makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 5: Add Chicken Broth and Simmer
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the garlic butter, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—these bits pack a ton of flavor and deepen the sauce.
Step 6: Toss in Cooked Noodles
Add the drained egg noodles to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat evenly in the luscious butter and broth sauce. This ensures every strand is full of flavor and gives the noodles a glossy, delicious finish.
Step 7: Serve with Sliced Chicken and Garnish
Slice the rested chicken breasts against the grain and arrange them atop the buttered noodles. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to add a fresh, herbaceous note and a vibrant splash of color that makes the dish even more inviting.
How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe, fresh parsley is a must. It brings a fresh brightness that balances the buttery richness. For a touch of color and texture, a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese also works beautifully, adding a savory, nutty element.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or asparagus—each adds a crisp contrast in texture and a healthy dose of vibrance. A simple green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can also complement this rich main course perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style presentation, serve the buttered noodles in a warm, wide bowl layered with sliced chicken on top, then sprinkle the parsley right before serving to keep it fresh and bright. For a more refined look, plate individual portions with chicken slices elegantly fanned over the noodles and drizzle a bit of extra sauce around the edges of the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Since the noodles absorb sauce as they chill, it’s best to add a splash of chicken broth or a teaspoon of butter when reheating to bring back their original creamy texture.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but noodles tend to change texture after freezing, becoming a bit softer. To freeze, place the chicken and noodles separately in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or a bit of butter to revive the sauce’s silkiness. Stir constantly to warm evenly and avoid drying out the chicken. Microwaving works too—just cover to retain moisture and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle for this Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and have a lovely texture, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, pappardelle, or even small shells. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep your noodles tender but not mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as margarine or olive oil. The flavor will shift slightly, but the dish will remain delicious. Just make sure to use a garlic-infused oil or fresh garlic to keep that aromatic quality in the sauce.
How can I tell when the chicken breasts are fully cooked?
Chicken breasts are fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part; the meat should be opaque with no pinkness. The 6-7 minute per side guideline works well for average-sized breasts.
Can I add vegetables to the buttered noodles?
Definitely! Adding sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach to the noodles while tossing in the sauce creates a more substantial and colorful dish. Just add them towards the end of cooking to keep them bright and fresh.
What kind of chicken broth works best for the sauce?
Homemade chicken broth will always provide the richest flavor, but good-quality store-bought broth works just fine too. Look for low-sodium options so you can control the saltiness of the dish better.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm, comforting classic but comes together effortlessly. It’s perfect for when you want something satisfying without fuss, yet crave a meal full of flavor and texture that feels special. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become one of your go-to favorites for busy nights or any time you want that cozy, delicious meal.
Print
Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe combines tender, golden-brown chicken breasts with egg noodles tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Enhanced with savory chicken broth and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts
Pasta
- 8 oz egg noodles
Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Season and prepare chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted.
- Cook the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until both sides are golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Make sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate extra flavor into the sauce.
- Toss noodles: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss them gently in the garlic butter sauce until well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Slice the rested chicken breasts and plate them on top of the buttered noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or some grated Parmesan cheese to the noodles.
- Use fresh garlic for best aroma and taste, but garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Leftover buttered noodles and chicken can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
