Chicken Buttered Noodles – A Comforting Classic

There’s something truly special about simple, home-cooked meals that bring warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Chicken Buttered Noodles is one of those dishes—a humble yet comforting meal that reminds many of childhood dinners, cozy evenings, or even those times when only a buttery bowl of pasta could make things feel right again.

This dish is a staple in many households because of its simplicity, requiring only a handful of ingredients while delivering rich, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re making it as a quick weeknight dinner, a comforting meal for someone feeling under the weather, or just something deliciously easy for yourself, chicken buttered noodles never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – With minimal prep and simple steps, this dish comes together in no time.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike love the creamy, buttery taste with tender bites of chicken.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples, making it an affordable meal option.
• Customizable – Add herbs, spices, or vegetables to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz egg noodles
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (plus more for garnish)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Chicken Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. You’ll want them to be tender but not mushy. Once done, drain them and set aside.

Pro Tip: Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen up the sauce later!

Step 2: Cook the Garlic and Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This step enhances the flavor and infuses the butter with a rich garlicky aroma.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Seasonings

Stir in the cooked chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, onion powder, and dried parsley. Let it heat through for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat it in the buttery garlic mixture.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute. Then, stir in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If you want a silkier consistency, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Toss in the Noodles

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta absorbs all that buttery, creamy goodness. Let it cook for another minute or two to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Garnish

If you’re using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the noodles and give everything a good toss. Garnish with extra dried parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give you the best flavor compared to garlic powder.
• Make it Creamier: Add an extra splash of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese for a richer texture.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, store-bought rotisserie chicken works wonderfully.
• Want Extra Flavor? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner, Pasta
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian Option Available (without chicken)

Notes

• If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
• This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
• Leftovers can be used as a base for a creamy pasta bake the next day!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g

(Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

What’s the Best Pasta for This Recipe?

Egg noodles work best because they have a soft, buttery texture that pairs well with the sauce. However, you can also use fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti.

Can I Make It Without Cream?

Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter version, skip the heavy cream and use more chicken broth instead.

How Can I Add More Protein?

You can toss in extra chicken or even stir in some cooked turkey ham or beef sausage for more flavor.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
• Freezing: While possible, freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate upon reheating.

Related Recipes

If you loved this dish, you might also enjoy:

• Easy Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy – Comfort Food at Its Best!
• Smothered Chicken with Onions and Mushrooms: A Comfort Food Classic
• Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs : A Warm Hug on a Plate

Conclusion

Chicken Buttered Noodles is proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. With tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a buttery, creamy sauce, this dish is a surefire winner for busy nights or cozy evenings. Give it a try, and let this dish become a comforting staple in your kitchen!

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