If you’re searching for a dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Buttered Chicken with Garlic Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken breasts cooked in luscious butter and garlic, mingling perfectly with silky egg noodles tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce. Every bite is bursting with comfort, flavor, and just the right touch of indulgence. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic weeknight meal that feels special without any fuss. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s wonderful about this dish is how simple and straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the final flavor and texture. The butter creates that silky richness, garlic adds a beautiful aromatic kick, and Parmesan brings a subtle, savory depth that ties everything together. Let’s take a look at the essentials:
- 1 lb chicken breast: Choose fresh, boneless chicken breast for tender, juicy meat that cooks evenly.
- 8 oz egg noodles: These noodles provide the perfect pillow for soaking up the creamy buttery sauce.
- 1/2 cup butter: This brings unmatched richness and helps elevate the garlic and chicken flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for that irresistible fragrant aroma and flavor punch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that makes the noodles irresistible.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A little pop of color and fresh herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Creamy Buttered Chicken with Garlic Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the egg noodles
Start by boiling your egg noodles according to the package instructions. The noodles should be tender but still have a bit of bite to them. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside so they’re ready to soak up that buttery garlic sauce later.
Step 2: Season the chicken
While the noodles cook, lightly season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning layer will bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and complement the butter and garlic perfectly.
Step 3: Sauté the garlic in butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic just until it becomes fragrant and golden but not burnt. This step releases the rich, aromatic oils that form the flavor base of the dish.
Step 4: Cook the chicken breasts
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook them in the garlic butter until they’re beautifully browned on the outside and cooked through inside. This method locks in moisture while infusing the chicken with buttery, garlicky goodness.
Step 5: Slice and combine
Remove the chicken from the pan and slice it into strips. Then, toss the cooked noodles back into the skillet along with the sliced chicken. Mixing everything in the buttery garlic sauce ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and parsley
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and chicken, stirring gently to melt it into the dish. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely herbaceous touch and visual appeal.
How to Serve Creamy Buttered Chicken with Garlic Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley is more than just for looks; it lifts the dish with a subtle, bright flavor that balances the richness. For an extra touch, a little cracked black pepper or a thin lemon wedge on the side can brighten the palate as well.
Side Dishes
Since the Creamy Buttered Chicken with Garlic Noodles Recipe is quite rich, pairing it with crisp, fresh sides like a simple green salad or steamed vegetables adds a refreshing contrast. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans work beautifully to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family dinner, serve everything nestled on one big platter for everyone to dig in. If you’re hosting, try plating the chicken strips artfully atop a nest of noodles on warm plates, finishing with extra Parmesan and a small parsley sprig for that elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will keep nicely for up to 3 days, although the texture of the noodles might soften slightly. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy sauce.
Freezing
This dish freezes okay, but since the noodles can become mushy, it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately if possible. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for optimum freshness.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at a low power setting. Stir frequently and add a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen up the sauce and keep it creamy. This will bring the dish back to life without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay very tender when cooked in butter. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs can take a little longer to cook through.
What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
Egg noodles are perfect because of their tender, slightly chewy texture that holds the sauce beautifully. However, you can also try fettuccine or even pappardelle if that’s what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out regular egg noodles for a gluten-free variety. Make sure the Parmesan cheese you use is also gluten-free, as some pre-grated cheeses can contain additives.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas tossed in at the end add a fresh pop of color and nutrition without overpowering the creamy garlic flavor.
How can I make this dish more or less creamy?
To make it creamier, try stirring in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before adding the cheese. If you prefer it lighter, reduce the butter slightly or finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon to cut through the richness.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Buttered Chicken with Garlic Noodles Recipe is comfort food at its finest: simple, satisfying, and downright delicious. It’s the kind of dish that makes you smile with every forkful and impresses without any stress. I can’t wait for you to try it and soak up all those buttery, garlicky flavors that feel like a cozy celebration in your own kitchen.
Print
Creamy Buttered Chicken with Garlic Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken breast with rich butter-infused egg noodles, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a comforting and satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Noodles
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor before cooking.
- Sauté Garlic in Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet with the garlic butter. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is browned and completely cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Slice the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and slice them into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Noodles and Chicken: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet with the butter and garlic. Add the cooked egg noodles and toss gently to combine and coat everything in the buttery garlic sauce.
- Add Cheese and Garnish: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the noodle and chicken mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth or water for cooking noodles if preferred for better flavor control.
- For a richer flavor, substitute half of the butter with olive oil or add a splash of cream at the end.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Fresh parsley adds color and a mild herbal note; you can substitute with basil or chives if desired.
- Grated Parmesan can be replaced with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
