Introduction

Buttered Noodles with Chicken is a simple, comforting meal that combines tender, seasoned chicken with rich, garlicky buttered noodles. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. This dish highlights classic flavors that everyone will love.

The image shows a close-up of a bowl filled with creamy pasta and grilled chicken on top. The bottom layer consists of pale yellow, wide flat noodles coated in a smooth, creamy sauce. On top of the pasta, there are several pieces of grilled chicken, cut into thick slices, showing a golden brown, slightly charred outside and juicy inside. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled over the chicken and pasta, adding a fresh touch. The bowl is white and sits on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herb)
8 oz egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil (for noodles)
1 teaspoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the noodles and set aside, reserving some pasta water for later.
Step 2: While the noodles cook, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C). Remove from the skillet and let rest.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the butter and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Add the drained noodles to the skillet and toss them in the butter and garlic mixture until well coated. If the noodles seem dry, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Step 6: Season the noodles with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and toss again to combine.
Step 7: Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips. Serve the buttered noodles on plates, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
Try using other herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a different twist.
Substitute egg noodles with fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta you prefer.
To make it creamy, stir in a splash of heavy cream or grated Parmesan cheese into the noodles before serving.

Storage

Store leftover buttered noodles and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles moist. Avoid microwaving directly without moisture to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

A dark bowl filled with creamy light beige fettuccine pasta, coated in a smooth sauce with visible small herbs. On top, there is a sliced grilled chicken breast with a golden-brown, slightly crispy skin and some green herbs sprinkled over it. The pasta noodles have a wavy texture and are closely packed, with the chicken placed neatly in the center. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning.

What can I substitute for egg noodles?

You can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.