Chicken with Buttered Noodles: A Classic Comfort Food Combo

Few dishes bring the kind of cozy satisfaction that a simple plate of Chicken with Buttered Noodles delivers. Tender, well-seasoned chicken breasts paired with soft, buttery egg noodles create a comforting, balanced meal that’s perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you crave hearty flavors without fuss.

This recipe highlights lean protein and the rich, velvety texture of butter-soaked noodles, elevated by fragrant garlic and herbs. Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, it’s sure to become a go-to in your cooking rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and straightforward: Minimal ingredients, straightforward method.
• Balanced flavors: Juicy chicken and buttery noodles harmonize beautifully.
• Comfort food classic: Perfectly satisfying without heaviness.
• Customizable: Use your favorite herbs and pasta shape for a personal touch.

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 preferred 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)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Breasts: A lean, versatile protein that absorbs flavors well.
• Egg Noodles: Soft and pillowy, they soak up buttery sauces effortlessly.
• Butter & Olive Oil: Together they provide richness, depth, and a silky texture.
• Garlic and Herbs: Key aromatics that enhance the dish’s flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Rub both sides with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts.
4. Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from skillet, cover loosely with foil, and let rest while you prepare the noodles.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 7–9 minutes) until al dente.
3. Drain the noodles, reserving about ¼ cup of the pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Buttered Noodles

1. In the same skillet you cooked the chicken (wipe out any burned bits but keep the flavor), melt the butter and heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, careful not to burn it.
3. Add the drained noodles to the skillet and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen them up.
6. Stir in chopped parsley or basil if using, for freshness and color.

Step 4: Serve

• Slice the rested chicken breasts if desired, and serve alongside or atop the buttered noodles.
• Garnish with additional herbs or freshly grated Parmesan cheese if you like.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure juiciness.
• Use fresh garlic: It makes a big difference compared to powdered garlic in the noodles.
• Reserve pasta water: It’s magic for adjusting sauce consistency.
• Customize your herbs: Rosemary, oregano, or basil are great alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely.
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the dish.
• Serve with a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for a special touch.

Storage and Leftovers

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep noodles moist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well but may require slightly longer cooking time.

Q2: What can I use if I don’t have egg noodles?

Any pasta shape you like will work—fettuccine, penne, or rotini are all good substitutes.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?

Skip the butter and use olive oil only, or try a dairy-free butter alternative.

Q4: How do I keep the noodles from sticking?

Toss them with a little olive oil immediately after draining, or use reserved pasta water when mixing.

Q5: Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and noodles separately, then reheat and combine just before serving.

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Final Thoughts

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is an uncomplicated yet deeply satisfying meal that blends tender, seasoned chicken with rich, garlicky noodles. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s a dish that feels like home on a plate—simple ingredients, classic flavors, and heartwarming comfort.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect balance of juicy protein and buttery pasta that’s sure to please everyone at your table.