Best Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

Few dishes evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia like a plate of chicken with buttered noodles. Simple, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, this dish brings together tender pieces of seasoned chicken and rich, buttery egg noodles. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing something cozy for a rainy Sunday, this timeless recipe is a family favorite that never fails.

Few dishes evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia like a plate of chicken with buttered noodles. Simple, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, this dish brings together tender pieces of seasoned chicken and rich, buttery egg noodles. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing something cozy for a rainy Sunday, this timeless recipe is a family favorite that never fails.

Introduction

Chicken with buttered noodles is a dish rooted in simplicity. It doesn’t rely on a complex list of ingredients or advanced culinary techniques, making it ideal for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The magic lies in the balance of buttery richness, savory chicken, and perfectly cooked noodles that soak up all the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Trim and Clean: Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat.

   - Advertisement -

2. Season: In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Massage seasoning into the meat.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

   • Transfer chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook Noodles: Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 6–8 minutes). Stir occasionally.

3. Drain and Butter: Drain the noodles and immediately return them to the pot. Add butter and stir until melted and evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Slice the cooked chicken into strips or cubes.

2. Add chicken to the buttered noodles or plate noodles and top with chicken.

3. Season with freshly ground black pepper.

4. Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Expert Cooking Tips

Use Chicken Thighs for More Flavor

While chicken breasts are lean, thighs offer more moisture and flavor. Bone-in thighs can be used, but boneless makes for easier slicing.

Don’t Overcook the Noodles

Egg noodles are delicate and can become mushy. Start testing for doneness at the minimum cook time.

Rest the Chicken

Letting chicken rest after cooking helps retain its juices when sliced.

Butter Quality Matters

Use high-quality unsalted butter for a richer flavor and better control over sodium.

Variations and Add-Ons

This dish is a perfect canvas for customization:

Add Veggies

• Spinach: Stir into the noodles for a burst of color and nutrients.

• Broccoli: Steam or roast florets and mix in with the noodles.

• Peas: Frozen peas can be added during the last minute of noodle cooking.

Add Cream for a Richer Sauce

Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or cream cheese with the butter for a creamy version.

Spice It Up

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick.

Make it One-Pot

Cook the chicken first, remove it from the skillet, then boil the noodles in the same pot (if oven-safe or deep enough). Return chicken to the pan at the end to mix.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is filling on its own, here are some ideas to round out the meal:

• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.

• Garlic Bread: Adds crunch and flavor to the plate.

• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini are great accompaniments.

• White Wine: A light Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the buttery flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze the chicken and noodles separately for best texture (up to 2 months).

Reheating

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the noodles.

• Microwave: Reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.

• Oven: For larger portions, place in a covered baking dish and reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Chicken with buttered noodles is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. It’s what we crave when we want something simple, filling, and delicious. The combination of juicy chicken and silky, buttery noodles satisfies every time, whether it’s your first time making it or your hundredth.

Best of all, this dish is endlessly customizable. Add vegetables, swap seasonings, make it creamy, or keep it classic—the base recipe offers a foundation that suits any kitchen and any taste.