Chicken with Buttered Noodles

This chicken with buttered noodles recipe is the ultimate answer to a comfort food craving. Tender pan-seared chicken sits atop silky butter-drenched noodles, infused with garlic and a hint of parmesan. All you need is a handful of pantry basics and half an hour, and you are on your way to one of those simple meals that always delivers.

This has become my reliable go-to for both busy weeknights and slow weekends. When my nephew visited last spring he declared these noodles the best thing he had ever eaten and he does not even like chicken.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless and skinless for even cooking and tenderness. A quick pat dry ensures a golden sear
• Egg noodles: Go for wide egg noodles for the most classic result. Look for brands with only a handful of ingredients for best flavor
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful chicken crust. Use a quality extra virgin type for flavor
• Butter: This is the heart of the sauce. European-style or high-fat butter brings extra creaminess and depth
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic punch. Smash and mince for the most release of flavor
• Chicken broth: Lifts the flavor of the sauce and softens the noodles. Choose low sodium if possible so you can season to taste
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning at every stage. Always taste before serving
• Fresh parsley: Brings a burst of color and fresh flavor. Choose flat-leaf for more herbal punch and less bitterness
• Parmesan cheese: Optional but highly recommended for its salty nutty note. Freshly grated is best if possible
• Lemon wedges: Optional for serving adds a spark of brightness if you want a fresh finish. Always sample before you squeeze to control acidity

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Pat the chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels to help browning. Sprinkle both sides with salt and cracked black pepper and press the seasoning lightly into the meat

Sear the Chicken:

In a large skillet heat the olive oil over medium-high until just shimmering. Place the chicken in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for five to seven minutes then flip and cook the second side until both sides are deeply golden and the center is cooked through to 165 degrees. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest so the juices stay inside

Cook the Noodles:

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the egg noodles and cook them until just al dente usually about seven minutes. Scoop out a quarter cup of the cooking water to reserve and drain the rest

Make the Butter Sauce:

Return to the same skillet over medium-low and add butter. When foaming add the garlic and cook gently for one minute until it smells fragrant being careful not to brown. Pour in the chicken broth and use your spoon to scrape all the golden brown bits from the bottom which will flavor the sauce. Simmer for one to two minutes

Combine Noodles and Sauce:

Add the drained noodles right into the skillet. Toss them with the buttery sauce to coat each strand. If it looks too thick add a splash of the reserved pasta water until creamy but not soupy

Slice and Add Chicken:

Slice the rested chicken into thick strips or bite-sized cubes. Lay them over the buttery noodles in the skillet. Sprinkle with plenty of parsley for freshness and parmesan if you like a cheesy finish. Serve with lemon wedges if you want a zesty finish

Parmesan is always my favorite part it melts right into the buttery noodles and brings a little salty richness to each bite. My grandmother used to sneak an extra pat of butter in her plate and honestly it does make it extra delicious.

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken with buttered noodles keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When I reheat I always save a splash of broth or water to add because it brings the noodles back to life. Avoid microwaving too long or the chicken may dry out.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap chicken thighs for breasts or even try a plant-based meat for a vegetarian spin. If you do not have egg noodles reach for spaghetti or rotini which also work beautifully. Use dried Italian parsley if fresh is not available though the flavor will be subtler.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus to make your meal feel extra complete. It is just as perfect for a weeknight table as it is for a casual dinner party with friends. I love pairing it with a chilled glass of white wine for a cozy evening.

Cultural Note

Buttered noodles are a staple in many European kitchens especially German and Eastern European homes where noodles are beloved comfort food. Chicken with buttered noodles is often the kind of meal you would find in American Midwest kitchens where it is considered nostalgia on a plate.

Seasonal Adaptations

Add peas asparagus or baby spinach in the spring for a fresh spin. Roasted butternut squash or sautéed mushrooms bring autumn depth. Garnish with extra lemon peel for a bright winter touch.

Success Stories

One of my friends made this dish for her picky kids and was shocked when they asked for seconds and thirds. This is the definition of family-friendly comfort food. It has become the meal I make when I want to spoil someone or just want a plateful of happiness.

Freezer Meal Conversion

If you want to freeze it assemble the noodles and chicken in a baking dish but do not add parsley or parmesan. Wrap very well and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered at three fifty Fahrenheit until hot then top with fresh parsley and cheese.

Enjoy this classic chicken and buttered noodles comfort dish with your favorite crisp salad or veggie. Leftovers reheat beautifully so you can savor the coziness again the next day.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, both boneless, skinless thighs and breasts work well. Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor to the final dish.

→ How do I prevent overcooking the chicken?

Sear on medium-high until each side is golden and just cooked through. Rest the chicken briefly before slicing to keep it succulent.

→ What type of noodles are best?

Egg noodles are classic for their soft, rich texture, but any pasta shape you like can be substituted.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The chicken can be cooked in advance and gently reheated. Toss noodles and butter just before serving for best texture.

→ Is the Parmesan cheese necessary?

Parmesan adds savory flavor but is optional. Try it with or without, or sprinkle on your favorite cheese instead.