The smell of sizzling garlic in butter will stop the whole house in its tracks. This Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is the kind of meal that makes you want to cancel plans and eat in sweatpants. Lately, everyone’s craving simple, nostalgic comfortand this one’s making the rounds for good reason.
It’s tender chicken thighs (or breasts, if that’s what you’ve got), buttery egg noodles, and a garlic parmesan situation that feels like home. Just a handful of pantry staples and you’re on your way. Like your grandma’s chicken and noodlesonly faster, and with fewer pots. Full details in the blog!
I first threw this together when I was short on time and craving something my mom might’ve made on a tired Tuesday. The flavors hit so perfectly, I scribbled the recipe on a sticky note that now lives on my fridge. I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
Why It’s a Family Favorite
This dish truly hits all the right notes for a cozy, nostalgic dinner the whole family can enjoy. First, it’s a one-pan wonderwho doesn’t love fewer dishes on a busy night? The combination of tender chicken with buttery, garlic-tossed noodles is as comforting as it gets but still feels just fancy enough to make any dinner feel a little extra special.
It’s also endlessly adaptable. Whether your family loves juicy thighs or leaner chicken breasts, this works beautifully with whatever you have on hand. And thanks to the simple pantry ingredientsegg noodles, butter, garlic, and parmesanyou don’t need to run to the store for anything extra. This is comfort food at its most practical!
Best of all, the whole meal comes together in just around 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights when you’re craving homemade goodness without a lot of fuss!
Ingredients Breakdown
Every ingredient in this simple chicken pasta recipe has a role to play. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you feel prepared:
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work. Thighs add richness, but breasts will stay lean and tender if cooked properly.
Egg Noodles: These soak up the buttery sauce beautifully. Other pasta varieties work too if that’s what you’ve got.
Garlic & Butter: The backbone of the flavorthe smell alone could sell this dish! Use fresh garlic for that little extra something.
Chicken Broth or Pasta Water: Adds a touch of moisture and ties everything together without making it soupy.
Parmesan Cheese: Optional but highly recommended for its rich, nutty finish.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper keep things balanced and cozy.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of greenery at the end makes this dish pop visually and adds a fresh, herby finish.
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to make this quick weeknight chicken dinner? Just follow these steps, and you’ll have dinner on the table in no time:
Season the Chicken: Generously coat both sides of your chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internally). Remove and cover with foil to rest.
Cook the Noodles: Boil egg noodles in salted water until al dente (about 7–9 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of the cooking water before draining.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Stir in minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Combine Everything: Pour in pasta water or chicken broth, scraping up all those golden bits on the pan. Toss the noodles in the garlic butter sauce until fully coated.
Serve: Plate the noodles, top with the sliced chicken, and garnish with parsley and parmesan.
Step
Time
Season & Sear Chicken
12 minutes
Cook Noodles
7–9 minutes
Make Sauce & Combine
5 minutes
Total
30 minutes
Easy Customizations
One of the best parts about this creamy buttered noodles recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on taste or what’s in your fridge. Here are a few simple ideas:
Need veggies? Stir in fresh spinach, steamed broccoli, or peas for a boost of greens.
Want it creamier? Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for extra richness.
No egg noodles? Any pasta works herespaghetti, penne, or even bowtie pasta are great alternatives.
Out of chicken breasts? Try turkey cutlets or even shrimp for a fun twist!
How to Serve & Store
This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. But if you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to keep them delicious:
Storage: Let everything cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen up the noodles. Or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Storage Method
Tips
Fridge
Store in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Not recommended; noodles may get mushy.
Reheating
Add a splash of liquid to keep noodles saucy.
Bring this comfort food chicken dinner back to the table anytime you need something hearty, cozy, and ridiculously easy to whip up!
Expert Insight: Mastering Classic Comfort with Chicken and Buttered Noodles
Chicken with buttered noodles recipe is a timeless dish that balances protein and simple carbohydrates for satisfying comfort food. The key is to cook the noodles just until al dente and toss them immediately with butter, ensuring a silky coating that complements tender, flavorful chicken without overpowering it.
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The Journey to My Perfect Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
This chicken with buttered noodles recipe didn’t come together overnight. After several attemptslike accidentally over-salting the sauce or undercooking the noodlesI finally nailed the balance. Each try taught me a little more about timing and seasoning, making today’s version a cozy, simple dish my family actually asks for again and again.
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.
Conclusion
Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is a total weeknight win. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have tender, perfectly seasoned chicken resting atop silky, garlic-infused buttered noodles that smell like a hug from your kitchen. The balance of creamy, savory flavors with just the right amount of garlic and parmesan is honestly addictive. You’ll love how it turns outcomfort food that feels like home without any fuss or fancy steps.
Here’s a little expert tip: swapping in fresh spinach or peas adds a nice pop of color and mild sweetness, turning it into a one-pan wonder you can feel good about. Leftovers? Just warm gently with a splash of broth to revive that luscious sauceI learned that trick from my aunt, and it really brings this simple chicken pasta back to life. Easy, flexible, and always crowd-pleasing, this recipe bends to fit your fridge and your mood.
Did this family friendly chicken recipe remind you of meals from your childhood? I’d love to see your photos or hear your stories in the comments. Sharing recipes like this is what keeps comfort food alive and wellso don’t forget to save it for those cozy nights, and pass it on to someone who needs a little dinner magic. Let’s keep the warmth going!
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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
