Chicken Buttered Noodles Dinner

There is something so comforting about a big bowl of chicken buttered noodles after a busy day. This dish gives you everything you want from a weeknight dinner: simple steps, plenty of flavor and a creamy sauce that feels special without any fuss. I find myself turning to this recipe when I want something reliable that will always make everyone at the table happy even on the pickiest days.

The first time I made this meal it saved dinner after a late night of errands. My husband now claims it is his favorite whenever comfort food is needed.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Bring lots of lean protein and soak up the herby garlic butter flavors. Look for chicken that is plump and light pink for ultimate freshness.
• Egg noodles: Are classic here, providing just the right texture to cradle the sauce. Choose wide egg noodles or swap with another shape if you prefer.
• Unsalted butter: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness to every bite. Use a high-quality butter for extra flavor.
• Garlic: Should be fresh bright cloves instead of jarred for the fullest taste. Mince just before you cook.
• Chicken broth: Helps round out the sauce, pulling in savory notes. Go for a low-sodium option to better control the seasoning.
• Heavy cream: Delivers that signature silky texture. A splash of cream goes a long way, so pick one with no additives for clean flavor.
• Fresh parsley or dried parsley: Gives the final lift and a lively pop of color.
• Olive oil: Starts off the chicken and helps prevent sticking. Extra-virgin is ideal whenever possible.
• Optional parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes: Let you finish your meal to taste.

Instructions

Prep and Season the Chicken:

Generously season chicken breasts all over with salt, black pepper and dried thyme. This sets the flavor foundation right at the start.

Sear and Cook Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken and let it cook without moving for five to six minutes until deep golden on one side. Flip and cook another five minutes or so until fully cooked and juices run clear. Set aside to rest.

Slice the Chicken:

Once the chicken rests for several minutes to stay juicy, slice it into strips or bite-size pieces.

Boil the Noodles:

Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add egg noodles and cook to just al dente, usually seven to eight minutes. Reserve a half cup of the starchy cooking liquid then drain.

Build the Butter Sauce:

Return the skillet to medium and add all the butter. Let it melt and foam as you scrape up bits from the pan bottom.

Sauté Garlic:

Stir in minced garlic, allowing it to sizzle for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.

Simmer with Broth and Cream:

Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it bubble and reduce for three minutes. Add heavy cream and continue simmering for several more minutes until thickened.

Combine Pasta and Chicken:

Tip noodles into the pan with the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If needed, splash in some reserved cooking water to thin to your liking.

Finish with Chicken and Garnish:

Return sliced chicken to the pan with the noodles. Sprinkle parsley and toss again. Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper.

Serve Hot and Top:

Dish onto plates while steaming hot. Top with fresh parmesan cheese and a few chili flakes if desired for extra punch.

While I love the way the fresh garlic transforms the sauce, I have to admit my favorite moment is always tossing in a handful of chopped parsley from my garden. It instantly reminds me of summer evenings when we would pick the herbs together as a family just before sitting down to eat.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Cool leftovers thoroughly before placing them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Chicken buttered noodles reheat beautifully in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream. Freezing is possible but for best texture try to enjoy within three days if kept in the fridge.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

No egg noodles? Try any flat or shaped pasta such as pappardelle or rotini. Fresh herbs can stand in for dried if you have them on hand. To lighten it up use half and half in place of heavy cream or add peas or spinach in the final toss.

Perfect Ways to Serve This

Chicken buttered noodles can be the centerpiece or a canvas for extra toppings. Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots for color and crunch. Add a bright salad to balance the richness or simply enjoy a little extra parmesan melted on top for added comfort.

The Story Behind This Recipe

Every family has that one dish begging to be kept in the dinner rotation. For us this recipe appeared unexpectedly after an exhausting day spent moving boxes. It has since become the meal we crave after a long week, always promising that home is wherever this comforting bowl is served.

Adapting for Every Season

For spring, toss in peas or asparagus tips with the noodles. When fall comes, a pinch of nutmeg or sautéed mushrooms give a whole new depth. Even winter calls for a sprinkle of lemon zest to liven up the creamy sauce. Make it your own with whatever you have.

Some Helpful Notes

Prep all ingredients before cooking for best flow. Sauce may look thin at first but thickens as it cools. Do not skip resting the chicken for maximum juiciness.

What People Are Saying

Friends often share that their kids now ask for this every week. It always seems to get extra rave reviews when made with homemade broth or with a sprinkle of sharp parmesan right at the end.

Freezer Meal Conversion

If you want to freeze this meal let the noodles and chicken cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. Reheat gently with a tablespoon or two of chicken broth stirred in to bring back that creamy texture. While the sauce thickens after freezing it still tastes just as rich and filling.

This dish will quickly become a regular on your dinner table. Enjoy every creamy, comforting bite!

Recipe Q&A

→ Which pasta works best with chicken buttered noodles?

Egg noodles are traditional, but spaghetti or fettuccine are great alternatives for holding the creamy sauce.

→ How can I add more flavor to the dish?

Sauteed garlic, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes can deepen the flavors.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, simply slice or shred cooked chicken and warm it in the sauce with noodles before serving.

→ Is it possible to make the dish lighter?

Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream and use less butter to reduce richness if desired.

→ What sides pair well with chicken buttered noodles?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balance the richness and make a complete meal.