There are few meals as universally comforting and crowd-pleasing as a warm plate of chicken buttered noodles. This dish is the embodiment of home-cooked goodness, combining tender pieces of golden-browned chicken with silky, buttery egg noodles seasoned just right. It’s a recipe that celebrates simplicity while delivering full-on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a busy family on a weeknight or want a quick comfort dish after a long day, chicken buttered noodles are always the answer.
In this article, we will walk you through every step of the process: the ingredients you’ll need, clear directions, helpful preparation tips, calorie estimates, and detailed explanations of how to bring the entire dish together seamlessly. By the end, you’ll not only have a delicious meal to serve but also a deeper understanding of why this timeless recipe is such a favorite.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (about 2 cups) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika, thyme, or rosemary (optional)
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz (about 4 cups) egg noodles or preferred pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the egg noodles or your chosen pasta.
- Cook according to the package directions until the noodles are just al dente (tender but firm to the bite).
- Drain the noodles and set them aside. You may drizzle a little olive oil on them to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- While the noodles are cooking, pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and optional herbs (paprika, thyme, or rosemary).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is golden brown.
- Optional: Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking to infuse extra flavor.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 2–3 minutes.
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces or strips.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- In the same skillet used for the chicken (do not wipe it clean), melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the cooked noodles and toss them gently to coat in the melted butter and pan juices.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, if using, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and mix everything gently to combine.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories:
- Approximate Calories: 450 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings and ingredients as listed)
Cooking Tips:
1. Customize Your Pasta
While egg noodles give a soft, nostalgic texture, this dish also works well with other types of pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine, rotini, or penne. Just make sure to cook them al dente to avoid sogginess when mixed with butter.
2. Add Vegetables
Want to make this dish a one-bowl meal? Add vegetables! You can stir in steamed broccoli florets, green peas, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers. These additions increase the nutrition and add beautiful color.
3. Make It Creamy
For an extra comforting variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of sour cream with the butter. This gives the dish a rich, creamy texture that feels indulgent.
4. Boost the Flavor with Broth
After draining the pasta, save a bit of the starchy pasta water or use a few tablespoons of chicken broth when tossing the noodles. This helps emulsify the butter and adds more depth of flavor.
5. Lemon Brightness
A little fresh lemon juice balances the richness of the butter and cheese. Add it at the end for a zesty twist.
6. Make It Ahead
You can cook the chicken in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat and combine with fresh noodles and butter when ready to serve.
7. Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate any leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a small splash of water or broth and warm on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
8. Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a warm piece of garlic bread. For a heartier dinner, consider serving it alongside a creamy tomato soup.
Final Thoughts:
Chicken buttered noodles may sound simple, but that’s exactly what makes them so magical. The balance of seasoned, pan-seared chicken with velvety butter-coated noodles is timeless. It’s adaptable, budget-friendly, and made with pantry staples most people already have on hand.
This dish is a reminder that you don’t need complicated techniques or fancy ingredients to make something truly delicious. It’s also a great recipe for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
So the next time you’re looking for something hearty, fast, and flavorful, reach for this chicken buttered noodles recipe—your taste buds will thank you.