Chicken Buttered Noodles is a simple and satisfying dish featuring tender pieces of chicken paired with soft, buttery noodles. It’s one of those meals that feels like a hug on a plate—comforting, easy to make, and perfect for any night of the week. The buttery coating on the noodles gives them a rich flavor that makes every bite inviting and delicious.
I love making this dish when I want something quick but still filling and tasty. The best part for me is how easy it is to customize—sometimes I add a handful of peas or sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top, but even on its own, it always hits the spot. It’s one of those go-to recipes I can count on when I need dinner without a lot of fuss.
Serving chicken buttered noodles warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a side of steamed veggies makes for a complete meal that everyone enjoys. I often bring this to casual get-togethers or family meals because it’s kid-friendly and comforting, making it a perfect pick for sharing good food and good company.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These noodles have a lovely soft texture that holds onto the butter sauce well. If you don’t have egg noodles, try wide pasta like pappardelle or fettuccine. Gluten-free pasta works too if you need a wheat-free option.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender. You can substitute thighs if you prefer juicier meat; just watch the cooking time. Rotisserie chicken is also a great shortcut if you’re short on time!
Butter: Butter is the star here for its rich, creamy flavor. Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness, but salted butter works if that’s what you have. For a lighter swap, try olive oil or a mix of butter and olive oil.
Spices (Garlic Powder, Paprika, Onion Powder, Parsley): These simple spices give the chicken a great flavor without overpowering the dish. You can adjust to your taste—add a pinch of cayenne for some heat or swap dried parsley for fresh herbs like thyme or basil.
How Can I Cook the Chicken So It’s Juicy and Well-Seasoned?
Getting tender, well-seasoned chicken is key for this dish. Follow these easy steps:
- Pat the chicken dry to get a nice crust when cooking.
- Coat it evenly with the spice mix so every bite has flavor.
- Cook the chicken on medium-high heat for a golden brown color—about 5-6 minutes per side is usually perfect.
- Don’t rush flipping; let the chicken form a crust before turning.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices stay inside, making it juicy when sliced.
These simple steps make your chicken flavorful and tender while giving a lovely contrast to the soft noodles.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the noodles quickly and easily.
- Skillet or frying pan – to cook the chicken and toss the noodles in butter.
- Tongs or a slotted spoon – for handling the cooked chicken and noodles without mess.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to keep the seasoning and butter amount just right.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – to slice the cooked chicken for serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a different protein or veggie boost.
- Add grated Parmesan or a splash of lemon juice on top for extra flavor.
- Mix in sautéed spinach or peas to add some greens and color.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
Chicken Buttered Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chicken broth (optional, for extra sauce)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a quick and easy meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings or a tasty lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are tender but still firm (al dente). Drain the noodles well and set them aside.
2. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
While the noodles are cooking, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken to give it great flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. Toss the Noodles in Butter:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium-low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add the cooked noodles and toss them well in the butter to coat. If you want a little extra sauce, stir in the chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and heat until everything is warmed through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the buttery noodles on plates and top with sliced chicken breasts. Sprinkle extra dried or fresh parsley over the top for a lovely finish. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting chicken buttered noodles meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place the sealed chicken in cold water for quicker thawing. This ensures even cooking and better texture.
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can cook the chicken and noodles separately, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat the noodles with a little butter or broth and warm the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the noodles and chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or butter to keep everything moist.
Can I Substitute Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While egg noodles work best for their texture, feel free to use fettuccine, pappardelle, or any wide pasta you like. Just cook according to package instructions and proceed as usual.