Chicken with Buttered Noodles (Classic Comfort Food)

Introduction

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the definition of classic comfort food. It’s simple, warm, familiar, and deeply satisfying—exactly the kind of meal you make when you want something reliable, cozy, and loved by everyone at the table. Juicy, pan-seared chicken paired with tender noodles coated in rich, silky butter creates a dish that feels nostalgic while still being endlessly customizable.

This is one of those recipes that doesn’t try too hard—and that’s exactly why it works. No complicated sauces, no hard-to-find ingredients, no long prep times. Just good food made with intention. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a relaxed Sunday dinner, or a picky family crowd, Chicken with Buttered Noodles delivers comfort in every bite.

Many of us grew up eating some version of this dish. Maybe it was served with egg noodles and a simple pat of butter. Maybe it was finished with parsley, garlic, or a squeeze of lemon. No matter how it was prepared, it always felt like home. That’s the magic of this recipe—it adapts to your kitchen, your preferences, and your mood.

With minimal prep and a cook time of about 20 minutes, this meal proves that delicious food doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s approachable for beginner cooks yet satisfying enough for experienced home chefs who appreciate timeless flavors done right.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

There are plenty of reasons this dish deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation:

• Tender, Juicy Chicken – Perfectly seasoned and pan-seared until golden on the outside and juicy on the inside

• Rich Buttered Noodles – Soft, comforting noodles coated in a glossy, buttery garlic sauce

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish

• Budget-Friendly – Made with simple pantry staples

• Family-Approved – Mild, comforting flavors everyone loves

• Highly Customizable – Easy to add herbs, vegetables, cheese, or spices

• Great for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully without drying out

If you’re ever unsure what to make for dinner, Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the answer you can always trust.

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Recipe Details

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Calories: ~400–500 per serving

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or preferred herb)

For the Buttered Noodles

• 8 oz egg noodles (or pasta of choice)

• 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)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes.

Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water—this starchy water helps create a silky sauce later. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

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2. Prepare the Chicken

While the noodles cook, season the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken develops a golden-brown crust and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

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3. Make the Buttered Noodles

Using the same skillet (do not wipe it out—those browned bits add flavor), reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant.

Add the cooked noodles directly to the skillet and toss to coat them in the buttery garlic sauce. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen everything up.

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

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4. Assemble and Serve

Slice the rested chicken into thin strips. Serve the chicken over a bed of buttered noodles or arrange it alongside them. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve immediately.

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What Makes Chicken with Buttered Noodles So Special?

At first glance, Chicken with Buttered Noodles might seem almost too simple. But that simplicity is exactly what makes it special. Each ingredient plays a clear role:

• The chicken provides protein and savory depth

• The butter adds richness and silkiness

• The noodles create comfort and texture

• The garlic and herbs elevate the dish without overpowering it

This balance makes the recipe endlessly adaptable while still tasting complete on its own.

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Best Type of Chicken to Use

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and slice beautifully. However, you can easily substitute:

• Chicken thighs: Juicier and more forgiving

• Chicken cutlets: Cook even faster

• Rotisserie chicken: Great for shortcuts

Just adjust cooking times as needed.

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Best Noodles for Buttered Noodles

Traditional egg noodles are the classic choice for Chicken with Buttered Noodles, but you can easily swap them for:

• Fettuccine

• Linguine

• Spaghetti

• Pappardelle

• Bowtie pasta

• Gluten-free pasta

The key is choosing a noodle that holds butter well.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Salt your pasta water well: It’s your only chance to season the noodles from the inside

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Use a thermometer for perfect results

• Reserve pasta water: It creates a smooth, glossy sauce

• Use real butter: This dish relies on butter flavor

• Let the chicken rest: Prevents dry meat

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Delicious Variations

Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Add grated Parmesan cheese to the noodles and finish with extra garlic.

Lemon Butter Chicken Noodles

Add lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Creamy Buttered Noodles

Stir in a splash of cream or milk for extra richness.

Herbed Buttered Noodles

Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill for added flavor.

Chicken with Buttered Noodles and Vegetables

Add peas, spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for color and nutrition.

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What to Serve with Chicken with Buttered Noodles

This dish pairs well with:

• Steamed green beans

• Roasted carrots

• Simple side salad

• Garlic bread

• Sautéed spinach

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Storage and Reheating

To Store

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

To Reheat

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or butter to prevent dryness.

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Meal Prep Friendly

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is an excellent meal prep option. Store chicken and noodles separately for best texture, or together for convenience.

Print

Nutrition Overview (Approximate)

• Calories: 400–500

• Protein: 35–40g

• Carbohydrates: 40–45g

• Fat: 18–22g

Exact values depend on portion size and ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats very well and keeps its flavor.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just thaw completely before cooking.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The mild flavors make it perfect for kids.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter alternatives for similar results.

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Why This Recipe Works for Any Occasion

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, Chicken with Buttered Noodles always feels appropriate. It’s comforting without being boring, simple without being bland, and familiar without feeling outdated.

This is the kind of recipe that becomes part of your regular rotation—not because it’s trendy, but because it works every single time.

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Final Thoughts

Chicken with Buttered Noodles is proof that the simplest recipes are often the most satisfying. With juicy pan-seared chicken, tender noodles, and a rich buttery sauce, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and nostalgia all in one bowl.

It’s easy enough for busy weeknights, flexible enough for creative variations, and comforting enough to become a family favorite. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.