If you’re craving something comforting, simple, and downright irresistible, this Chicken and Buttered Noodles Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are paired with silky egg noodles bathed in rich, buttery goodness, all brightened up with fresh garlic and parsley. What makes this dish so special is its balance of hearty flavor and comforting familiarity, perfect for cozy dinners that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or just yourself, these buttered noodles with chicken will come together effortlessly but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but each one plays a vital role in bringing out the vibrant flavors and perfect texture in this Chicken and Buttered Noodles Recipe. From the creamy butter to the savory chicken broth, every element adds depth to this classic comfort meal.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs): Choose tender, fresh chicken breasts for juicy results that soak up flavor beautifully.
- 8 oz egg noodles: These noodles are tender with a slight chew, ideal for soaking up buttery sauce.
- 4 tbsp real butter: Using real butter creates that rich, silky texture that defines this recipe.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a fragrant punch that wakes up the entire dish.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The broth adds moisture and a subtle savory base without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley introduces a bright, fresh contrast to the richness.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors without masking them.
- Black pepper to taste: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
How to Make Chicken and Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure they brown beautifully. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper — this simple step is key for layering essential flavors right from the start.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. This browning creates incredible flavor and a satisfying texture that makes the dish special.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Sauté
Reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Let it sauté for about a minute until fragrant — be careful not to burn it. This step infuses the butter and chicken drippings with bright, aromatic notes that tie the dish together beautifully.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Bring to Boil
Pour 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a gentle boil. The broth will soak into the noodles and chicken, blending every ingredient with savory warmth and moisture.
Step 5: Cook the Egg Noodles
Stir in the egg noodles and reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender but still slightly firm to the bite and most of the liquid is absorbed. This method cooks the noodles right in the flavorful broth, enhancing both taste and texture.
Step 6: Finish with Butter and Parsley
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining butter until it melts completely, coating the noodles in a luscious, glossy finish. Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Chicken and Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley isn’t just for looks; it adds a subtle fresh bite that balances the richness of butter. You might also consider a dash of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice to elevate the dish in a lovely new way.
Side Dishes
This Chicken and Buttered Noodles Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, or even some roasted carrots. These sides add texture and brighten the plate, keeping the meal balanced and inviting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve the chicken sliced over a generous nest of buttery noodles on warm plates. To impress guests, arrange the whole chicken breasts on top of the noodles and garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and buttered noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making it an excellent next-day meal ready in minutes.
Freezing
This dish freezes fairly well. Pack leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When freezing, keep in mind that the noodles might soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavor remains intact and comforting.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture. Stir occasionally to ensure the buttered noodles stay luscious and the chicken remains tender without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles work wonderfully, you can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or even wide pappardelle for a similar texture and experience.
Is it necessary to use real butter?
Real butter adds a rich flavor and creamy texture that margarine or oils simply can’t replicate. For the authentic turn-back-the-clock comfort of this dish, stick with real butter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. The recipe’s simplicity makes it easy to adapt without sacrificing flavor.
What can I add to make this dish more flavorful?
Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They’ll also feel firm to the touch and have no pink inside when sliced.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Buttered Noodles Recipe is a heartwarming dish that brings together simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a quick, delicious meal that satisfies both the soul and the appetite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your kitchen’s most-loved staple. Give it a go and watch your dinner routine transform into pure joy.
Print
Chicken and Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts served over buttery egg noodles cooked in a savory garlic chicken broth, garnished with fresh parsley. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that comes together in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp real butter (for searing chicken)
Noodles & Sauce
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 3 tbsp real butter (for noodles)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Heat Butter: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter until it is hot and bubbling but not burnt.
- Sear Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Broth: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil, which will help cook the noodles.
- Cook Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles, reduce heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until noodles are al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with Butter: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter until melted and fully coating the noodles for a rich, velvety texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the noodles and chicken, then serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts for 30 minutes in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in the dish.
- If you prefer, substitute egg noodles with other pasta types such as fettuccine or linguine.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
