Say hello to pure comfort in a bowl with Chicken with Buttered Noodles! This dish is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero—tender golden chicken mingling with silky, buttery noodles, and just the right pop of herbs and garlic. Whether you’re craving something cozy and nostalgic or just need a quick, satisfying meal everyone will love, this recipe is about to become your go-to. Bonus: it’s unfussy, pantry-friendly, and endlessly versatile. Let’s dive in!

Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how such a short and sweet ingredient list delivers such big flavors, but every component here genuinely matters. Each item brings something special, making Chicken with Buttered Noodles shine with taste, texture, and a little kitchen magic.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Bite-sized pieces of chicken that cook quickly and soak up all that buttery goodness.
Egg noodles (or your favorite pasta): These give the dish its classic, comforting base, but feel free to swap in what you have!
Olive oil: A drizzle to sear the chicken beautifully, locking in flavor and juiciness.
Unsalted butter: The star of the show—adds rich, creamy silkiness to the whole plate.
Garlic, minced: For that irresistible aroma and punch of savory flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and making every bite sing.
Dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil and parsley): This brings a little herby flair and works perfectly with the buttery sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For a cheesy, salty finish that’s totally dreamy.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds freshness, color, and a little extra flavor right before serving.

How to Make Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and drop in your egg noodles (or whatever pasta you love). Cook until just al dente—this ensures they have a bit of bite even after being tossed in buttery sauce. Drain them well, and set aside while you work your chicken magic.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat your olive oil over medium heat. Take the chicken pieces, sprinkle generously with salt and black pepper, and lay them in the pan. Let them get a nice golden color on the outside and cook through (this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes). When done, scoop the chicken out and set it aside on a plate to keep things juicy.

Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce

Now, using the same skillet (no need to clean—those browned bits mean extra flavor!), melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Gently stir and let everything sizzle for about 1 to 2 minutes—you want to smell that garlic come alive without letting it burn.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

With the garlic filling the kitchen, toss your drained noodles and that last tablespoon of butter right into the skillet. Turn and coat until each noodle strand is glossy with buttery sauce. Slide the cooked chicken back in, along with any resting juices. Give it all a good toss, sprinkle with Parmesan if the mood strikes, and shower with fresh parsley. That’s it—Chicken with Buttered Noodles is ready!

How to Serve Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

A flourish of fresh parsley is my everyday go-to: it looks gorgeous and brightens each bite. If you’re team cheese, a snowfall of extra Parmesan just before serving adds even more savory depth and feels instantly special.

Side Dishes

Chicken with Buttered Noodles pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed green beans or a crisp salad with lemony vinaigrette. If you want to go all-out, some roasted broccoli or warm crusty bread for sopping up extra butter sauce really rounds out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, pile the noodles high on a platter and nestle the chicken pieces right on top. Or, try serving in individual bowls with a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of chives. For family style, keep it rustic and let everyone dig in straight from the skillet—comfort food at its finest!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Chicken with Buttered Noodles to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, so leftovers often taste just as satisfying the next day.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish! Pack the cooled chicken and noodles in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-skillet goodness, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet with a splash of water or extra butter over low heat, stirring occasionally. In a pinch, you can use the microwave, but stovetop reheating keeps the noodles from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?

Yes! While the classic version features egg noodles, just about any pasta shape—fettuccine, rotini, or even spaghetti—will work. Adjust cooking times to make sure your pasta is just al dente before tossing with the sauce and chicken.

What’s the best cut of chicken for Chicken with Buttered Noodles?

Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs work beautifully. Thighs tend to be a bit juicier and more forgiving if you accidentally cook them a bit longer, but use whichever you have on hand.

Can I make Chicken with Buttered Noodles gluten-free?

You sure can! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta for the noodles. Double-check that your dried Italian seasoning is gluten-free, and you’re set for a delicious gluten-free meal.

How do I make this dish extra creamy?

For a richer, creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a big spoonful of cream cheese to the butter sauce before adding the noodles back to the skillet. This makes the dish super luxurious.

Can I add vegetables to Chicken with Buttered Noodles?

Absolutely. Toss in quick-cooking veggies like spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes right after the garlic for more color and nutrition. Almost any veggie works here, and it’ll bulk up your meal with minimal extra effort.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s simple, cozy, and sure to make any night a little brighter, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is your answer. I hope you give this recipe a spin and enjoy every buttery, golden forkful. Happy cooking!