Chicken Buttered Noodles Recipe

Imagine a comforting bowl of warm, creamy pasta paired with tender, juicy chicken—that is exactly what Chicken Buttered Noodles offers. This dish is a delightful combination of rich butter sauce, savory garlic, and perfectly cooked egg noodles, all elevated by the succulent chicken breasts that soak up the flavors beautifully. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share, Chicken Buttered Noodles is an irresistible option that’s simple to make yet impressively satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of essential ingredients, this recipe packs a punch in flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken breasts to the creamy butter sauce that envelopes the noodles, making every bite unforgettable.

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and protein-packed, chicken breasts serve as the star of the dish, absorbing the garlic butter sauce wonderfully.
• Egg Noodles: Traditional for this recipe, egg noodles bring the perfect tender bite, though feel free to swap in your favorite pasta.
• Butter: The foundation of the sauce, butter contributes rich, velvety creaminess that defines the dish’s character.
• Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth to the sauce, balancing the richness of the butter and cream.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious texture and adds indulgent smoothness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and flavor complexity.
• Dried Thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that complements both the chicken and the sauce.
• Dried Parsley: Adds a fresh burst of color and a mild, grassy flavor, perfect for garnish.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken to a golden perfection without overpowering flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight the natural flavors of every ingredient.
• Optional – Grated Parmesan Cheese: A savory topping that adds an umami kick and a touch of elegance.
• Optional – Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little spice, these bring a gentle heat to brighten the dish.

How to Make Chicken Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme for a fragrant herbal touch. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden brown crust that locks in the juices while cooking the chicken through. When the internal temperature hits 165°F, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest—this resting period ensures the meat remains juicy when sliced. After a few minutes, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces ready to be tossed in the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning tender but still firm to the bite. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining the noodles; it’s a little secret tip to help loosen up the sauce later if needed and keep everything silky-smooth.

Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce

In the same skillet where the chicken cooked, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt slowly, making sure to scrape up all those delicious browned bits left behind—that’s where the concentrated flavor hides. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it just long enough for its fragrant aroma to fill the kitchen, about a minute—take care not to burn it, or you’ll risk bitterness. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer, cooking it down for 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly. Follow by stirring in the heavy cream and letting the sauce simmer gently until it thickens to a beautiful, velvety consistency.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Chicken in the Sauce

Next, add the cooked noodles right into the skillet with the butter sauce. Gently toss them to make sure every noodle is luxuriously coated in that creamy garlic butter goodness. If the sauce feels a touch too thick, splash in a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and keep it smooth and luscious. Finally, return the sliced chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing everything together so the chicken absorbs even more of the sauce’s flavorful magic.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving

Before plating, taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed—this final touch makes all the difference. Sprinkle the dish with dried parsley for a hit of color, and if you love a little kick, add red pepper flakes to brighten the rich sauce. Serve piping hot, ideally topped with a generous shower of freshly grated parmesan cheese for that irresistible umami finish.

How to Serve Chicken Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

Garnishing Chicken Buttered Noodles is the perfect chance to add vibrancy and texture. Fresh parsley adds a pop of green freshness, while grated parmesan cheese lends a salty, nutty depth that melts wonderfully on the warm noodles. For an adventurous touch, red pepper flakes introduce a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider light, crisp side dishes like a simple mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables. Roasted broccoli or asparagus with a squeeze of lemon complements the richness of the Chicken Buttered Noodles perfectly without overwhelming it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or a special meal, serve Chicken Buttered Noodles in rustic bowls garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan. Adding a few halved cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top brings color contrast and a touch of sweetness. You can also swirl in a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few freshly cracked black peppercorns for an elegant finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Buttered Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen, making the next meal just as delightful. To keep the texture at its best, store sauce and noodles together; the sauce helps prevent the noodles from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the dish, wait until it has completely cooled, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Chicken Buttered Noodles freezes well for up to two months. Just remember that the sauce might need a gentle stir and perhaps a splash of broth or cream when reheated to bring back its creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwaving in short intervals, stirring in between, will warm it evenly. Avoid overheating as it can cause the sauce to separate or the chicken to dry out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can easily swap in spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time to fit your pasta choice, and the sauce will coat any noodle beautifully.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter and use coconut milk or a plant-based cream in place of heavy cream. The flavor will be slightly different but still deliciously creamy.

How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?

The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part to ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink inside.

Can I add vegetables to Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, peas, spinach, or even roasted cherry tomatoes work wonderfully. Adding veggies is a great way to boost the nutrition and add color to your plate.

What if I prefer a spicier version of Chicken Buttered Noodles?

Feel free to ramp up the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce as it simmers. A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper also adds a nice smoky heat to the dish.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Buttered Noodles is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough to share with friends or family. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to favorites when you want something hearty, creamy, and downright delicious. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of buttery, garlicky goodness that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.

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