The sound of butter melting in a warm panthat gentle sizzle that promises something good is coming. Few things bring a kitchen to life like preparing a chicken with buttered noodles recipe on a chilly evening. This timeless comfort meal has been winning hearts at dinner tables thanks to its pure, simple satisfaction.
Imagine tender chicken pieces nestled among silky egg noodles, all tossed in rich, golden butter with touches of garlic and parmesan. It’s a warm hug on a plate, made from ingredients you probably have in your pantry. The best part? This cozy dish comes together in just about 30 minutescomfort food without the wait. Read on for the full recipe and tips!
This recipe was passed down from my mother. I remember watching her hands work their magicmeasuring butter by instinct and seasoning with love. After perfecting each step, I’m excited to share a version your family will enjoy just as much.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Comfort Food Chicken Dinner
Some recipes bring memories with every bite, and this chicken with buttered noodles recipe is one of those special dishes. It reminds me of Sunday evenings, when the kitchen buzzed with quiet conversation and the soothing sounds of dinner coming together.
The beauty of this meal lies in its simplicityperfectly seasoned chicken and buttery egg noodles that soak up every drop of the garlicky sauce. It’s the kind of meal that draws everyone to the table and keeps them there, savoring both flavor and togetherness.
- Ready in just 30 minutesideal for busy weeknights
- Uses pantry staples you likely already have
- Satisfying enough for even big appetites
- Flexible for various tastes and dietary needs
Essential Ingredients and Tools for Success
This comforting dish stands out because of how each simple ingredient is prepared. Whether you use chicken breasts or thighs, season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme to build big flavor.
Butter is the heart of this dish. Four tablespoons create a silky base that transforms basic egg noodles into something rich and irresistible. Add minced garlic and chopped parsley for freshness, and sprinkle in parmesan for a subtle depth that ties it all together.
| Ingredient | Easy Swaps | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | Chicken thighs, turkey cutlets | Thighs are more forgiving and retain juiciness |
| Egg noodles | Penne, rotini, wide ribbon pasta | Choose shapes that hold sauce well |
| Fresh parsley | Chives, green onions, dried herbs | Use half as much if substituting dried herbs |
| Chicken broth | Pasta water, vegetable broth | Pasta water adds starch and enhances the sauce |
Step-by-Step: Creating Your Perfect Quick Weeknight Chicken Dinner
Begin by thoroughly seasoning your chicken and patting it dry for the perfect golden sear. Heat olive oil in a skillet until shimmering, then add the chickenno need to move it too soon. Let it develop that flavorful crust.
While the chicken rests, start cooking your noodles in boiling salted water. Timing is key herehave all your components prepped so you can bring the sauce and pasta together seamlessly in the final steps.
- Let chicken cook undisturbed for even browning
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining
- Use medium heat to melt butter and avoid burning
- Gently toss noodles in the pan to coat evenly in sauce
Troubleshooting and Kitchen Tips
Even seasoned cooks encounter the occasional hiccup. If your chicken is browning too fast, reduce the heat to avoid burning. A meat thermometer can confirm when it hits 165°Fperfectly cooked and safe to serve.
Pro Tip: If your garlic starts browning too quickly, quickly add pasta water to cool the pan and save the flavor. Burnt garlic can overpower the dish, but you can regain balance with this simple trick.
| Common Issue | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Dry chicken | Check doneness with thermometer; avoid overcooking |
| Burnt garlic | Immediately add liquid; reduce heat |
| Clumpy noodles | Loosen with more butter or a splash of pasta water |
| Bland flavor | Season pasta water; adjust seasoning to taste |
Serving Suggestions and Storage Wisdom
Serve this meal while it’s hotthe butter glistening and the chicken still juicy from resting. It pairs beautifully with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp side salad for balance.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The noodles may absorb some butter, so when reheating, stir in a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to restore that silky finish.
- Pair with crusty bread to scoop up extra sauce
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with added liquid
- Store chicken and noodles separately for best texture
- Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months
Expert Insight: Perfecting Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Chicken with buttered noodles strikes the ideal balance between simplicity and comfort. The best results come from properly cooked noodles and finishing the dish with high-quality butter that enhances flavor and texture without overwhelming the chicken.
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Slowly Perfecting My Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
This chicken with buttered noodles recipe didn’t just happen overnight. At first, my noodles were overcooked, then the sauce just wouldn’t cling right. But after several rounds of testing (and plenty of honest feedback from family dinner), it finally became the hearty, tender dish we now crave weekly.
FAQs ( Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe )
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, swap the egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta variety like rice or corn noodles. Ensure your broth and seasonings don’t contain gluten additives. This simple swap keeps the meal hearty while accommodating dietary needs without sacrificing comfort.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat this meal gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the noodles creamy and moist. Using a microwave works too but cover the dish to retain moisture and heat evenly.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs work beautifully and brighten the flavors in this dish. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their aroma and color. Parsley or thyme are excellent choices that complement the creamy buttered noodles and tender chicken nicely.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Cook chicken over medium heat without overcrowding the pan, allowing it to brown evenly. Avoid overcooking by checking internal temperature around 165°F. Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to retain juices, which keeps the protein tender in the final dish.
Can I prepare this meal in one pan?
This meal works well as a one pan chicken and noodles dish. Use a large skillet to cook the chicken first, then add the noodles and liquid to finish cooking together. This method saves time and reduces cleanup while melding flavors beautifully.
Chicken with buttered noodles recipe is your go-to for a satisfying weeknight dinner that’s as quick as it is cozy. Tender chicken, buttery noodles, and a hint of garlic combine to create a meal that warms the soul.
Try customizing it with fresh herbs from your garden or using whole wheat noodles if that’s more your style. Leftovers stay delicious with just a touch of added brothit’s a small trick that keeps everything creamy and comforting.
What’s your nostalgic comfort dish? I’d love to hear if this one reminds you of home, too. Share your own kitchen version and help keep the tradition going. Save this recipe for when your week calls for something easy, warm, and full of love.
PrintChicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe: Irresistible Comfort Feast
Juicy pan-seared chicken served over buttered noodles offers a family friendly chicken recipe perfect for a quick weeknight chicken dinner. This comforting dish combines tender chicken with creamy buttered noodles for a delicious and simple chicken pasta meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 portions 1x
- Category: Dinner Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Standard
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs if preferred
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme optional
- 2 cups egg noodles dry measurement or your preferred type of pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped for garnish
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese optional for extra flavor
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt pepper garlic powder onion powder and dried thyme.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken and cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover with foil to rest while you prepare the noodles.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente stirring occasionally.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water then drain the noodles in a colander.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken lower heat to medium and melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the reserved pasta water or chicken broth to the skillet stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Toss the cooked noodles into the garlic butter sauce stirring well to coat evenly.
- Add parmesan cheese if using and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the buttered noodles and top with the rested chicken sliced or whole.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the chicken use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F
- Reserve pasta water before draining for a creamier sauce
- Watch garlic carefully to prevent burning it should be fragrant but not browned
- For extra richness stir in heavy cream or cream cheese with the butter
- Add steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for more vegetables
Nutrition
- Calories: 475
