Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a classic comfort dish that’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any weeknight dinner. Tender, seasoned chicken breasts paired with rich, buttery noodles create a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The dish is versatile—you can garnish with fresh herbs for color and freshness, or serve it as-is for a quick, no-fuss meal. It’s a timeless recipe that appeals to all ages and brings warmth to the dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herb)
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
Preparation Method
1. Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken
While the noodles are cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme on both sides.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
3. Make the Buttered Noodles
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss them in the butter-garlic mixture until evenly coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, glossy texture.
4. Combine and Serve
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and serve them on top of the buttered noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips for Perfect Chicken with Buttered Noodles
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken stays juicy.
- Use good-quality butter: Unsalted butter provides a rich, creamy flavor that enhances the noodles.
- Customize herbs: Thyme is classic, but rosemary, oregano, or basil also pair beautifully with the chicken.
- Add extra flavor: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds brightness to the dish.
- Make it a full meal: Serve with steamed vegetables, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are slightly more flavorful and remain juicy, but they may need a few extra minutes of cooking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, penne, or rotini can replace egg noodles, depending on your preference.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the noodles and chicken separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.
How can I add more flavor to the noodles?
Toss the noodles with a little Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added depth.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy, buttery noodles paired with mild, seasoned chicken make it a favorite among children and adults alike.
Chicken with Buttered Noodles – Simple Comfort Food
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring juicy seasoned chicken breasts served over rich, buttery egg noodles. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family meals.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and rest.
- In the same skillet, add butter, 2 tbsp olive oil, and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat with butter and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve chicken over the buttered noodles and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
- You can substitute egg noodles with fettuccine or pasta of choice.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for 2–3 days and reheat easily.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple, comforting, and delicious meal that comes together quickly. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken with rich, buttery noodles makes it a family-friendly dish perfect for weeknights, casual gatherings, or anytime you crave a comforting home-cooked meal. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s a recipe that’s approachable for cooks of all skill levels while remaining satisfying and flavorful.