Chicken Buttered Noodles opens with a pantry-friendly idea turned creamy comfort for busy nights. I’m a professional chef who understands the pressure of balancing flavor, speed, and family needs. I designed this recipe to deliver weeknight ease without sacrificing depth. Tender chicken, al dente egg noodles, and a silky butter-Parmesan sauce cling to every strand. It’s a hug-in-a-bowl moment after a long day. In this guide, you’ll find practical tips, make-ahead ideas, and variations. Read on to learn how to recreate this warm, restaurant-worthy comfort at home.
Table of Contents
what make this Chicken Buttered Noodles special
Chicken Buttered Noodles is my answer to weeknights in a hurry. I love how the dish starts with pantry staples and ends in creamy comfort. I reach for this recipe when time is tight but flavor matters. The key is balancing a quick sear with a silky sauce that clings to noodles. I want every bite to feel like a cozy hug, not a rushed afterthought. It’s simple, forgiving, and family-approved. This is the kind of dish I turn to after long meetings or rehearsals. It makes weeknights feel a little more welcoming. Plus, cleanup is a breeze. And that matters.
The comfort-forward twist of Chicken Buttered Noodles
This dish leans into a cozy, restaurant-like feel without any fuss. Browned chicken and a butter-parmesan sauce give depth fast. The result is creamy pasta that clings to every egg noodle. I love how the sauce becomes silky in minutes and bowls look glossy. Chicken Buttered Noodles shines because the combo stays comforting yet practical. Best of all, it adapts to busy schedules and picky eaters. This is the kind of dinner I reach for when the clock is yelling.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Buttered Noodles
Chicken Buttered Noodles is my quick antidote to hectic weeknights, I reach for it. The creamy Chicken Buttered Noodles with tender chicken comes together in under 30 minutes for me. It tastes indulgent but stays practical, and I can serve Chicken Buttered Noodles to guests. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family approves, especially after long days. Adaptable and comforting, it reheats beautifully for leftovers, which I appreciate. Plus cleanup is a breeze, and I love the simplicity Chicken Buttered Noodles brings.
Quick, weeknight-friendly comfort
When time is tight, I grab this pan and go. A handful of pantry staples and a hot skillet create glossy, comforting noodles fast.
Ingredients
Here’s the core lineup I rely on for Chicken Buttered Noodles.
- 12 oz egg noodles — base soaking sauce.
- 1 lb chicken breast, bite-sized.
- 3 tbsp butter — silky richness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil — sears chicken.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced — fragrant kick.
- 1 cup chicken broth — light, flavorful liquid.
- 1 cup milk — creamy body.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan — cheesy depth.
- ½ tsp onion powder — boosts savoriness.
- ½ tsp garlic powder — extra garlic note.
- ½ tsp black pepper — gentle heat.
- ¼ tsp paprika — color and warmth.
- Salt, to taste — season to your liking.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish — bright finishing touch (optional: swap to fettuccine).
Ingredient spotlight: how each component supports flavor and texture
In my kitchen, these ingredients earn their keep. Noodles anchor the dish and soak the sauce. Butter and Parmesan melt into silk.

How to Make Chicken Buttered Noodles
I reach for Chicken Buttered Noodles on busy nights. This creamy pasta starts with pantry staples and builds flavor fast. With Chicken Buttered Noodles, I pair a quick sear with a silky butter-Parmesan sauce for weeknight comfort. Get ready to savor Chicken Buttered Noodles in your own kitchen.
Step 1: Cook the pasta
I fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. I add egg noodles and cook until al dente, per package directions. I reserve a splash of pasta water; it loosens the sauce later. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
I pat dry the chicken and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I cook the chicken in a single layer until browned and cooked through. I transfer it to a plate and rest briefly before slicing.
Step 3: Add garlic and aromatics
Return the skillet to medium heat and add the garlic. I cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, not brown. I stir in a tiny dab of butter for extra gloss, if desired.
Step 4: Build and temper the sauce
Add butter, chicken broth, and milk to the pan. I simmer three to four minutes to reduce slightly. I whisk to loosen any browned bits and create a glossy base.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan for creaminess
I stir in Parmesan until melted and silky. I season with salt and pepper to taste. I note that fresh-grated cheese gives brighter flavor for Chicken Buttered Noodles.
Step 6: Toss in the noodles
I return the cooked noodles to the pan and toss to coat. If the sauce seems thick, I add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. I keep stirring until every strand shines with gloss.
Step 7: Finish and taste
I stir in any chicken juices from the plate for extra moisture. I taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. I garnish with parsley and serve Chicken Buttered Noodles warm.

Tips for Success
Quick tips to keep it silky and flavorful
- I use a large skillet to avoid crowding and guarantee browning.
- I reserve a cup of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- I season in layers: salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, then taste.
- For silkiness, finish with a pat of butter or extra Parmesan.
- Use low-sodium broth to keep salt in check; adjust at the end.
- Keep the sauce at medium-low for silky Chicken Buttered Noodles.
- Freshly grate Parmesan for brighter, quicker melt.
Equipment Needed
Essential tools for Chicken Buttered Noodles
- 12-inch or larger skillet for browning and saucing Chicken Buttered Noodles.
- Large pot for boiling pasta.
- Colander to drain noodles.
- Tongs for tossing noodles in the pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board for prepping chicken.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Microplane or fine grater for Parmesan.
Variations
Flavor and dietary swaps you can try
- I switch to gluten-free egg noodles for a gluten-free Chicken Buttered Noodles without losing the sauce’s cling.
- I keep it dairy-free by using olive oil, dairy-free butter substitutes, and nutritional yeast for a cheesy depth.
- I add peas, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms to brighten color and nutrition.
- I finish with lemon zest or a pinch of thyme for a fresh, bright lift.
- I swap in shrimp, turkey, or tofu for different proteins while keeping the same creamy sauce.
- I use Pecorino Romano or a cheesy mix for a sharper, tangier note.
- I vary pasta shapes—fettuccine or penne work beautifully with the glossy sauce.
- I reduce the butter by half for a lighter version that still feels cozy.
- I prep the sauce ahead and toss with warm noodles to keep that glossy look when serving.
Serving Suggestions
Plating and pairing ideas for Chicken Buttered Noodles
- Plate in warm shallow bowls to keep Chicken Buttered Noodles glossy and hot.
- Finish with fresh parsley and a light Parmesan dust for aroma.
- Pair with a bright side like arugula salad or steamed broccoli.
- A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon works nicely.
- Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Chicken Buttered Noodles: Make-Ahead and Leftovers for Busy Weeks
Make-ahead weeknights are my friend. I cook the noodles to just al dente and keep the sauce separate until dinner time. This little habit keeps Chicken Buttered Noodles glossy and fast to reheat after a long, busy day. It feels like a small win.
Make-ahead prep and reheating tips
Store components in airtight containers and label with date. When reheating, warm the sauce first, add noodles, and splash in a bit of milk or pasta water to restore creaminess. A quick stir midway helps everything cling.
Freezer-friendly and fridge-friendly options
For freezing, freeze the sauce separately from the noodles; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring in a little extra milk. This preserves texture so leftovers taste almost day-one delicious.

FAQs
FAQ 1: Can I use different pasta shapes with Chicken Buttered Noodles?
Yes. The sauce sticks to many pasta shapes. Try fettuccine, penne, fusilli, or tagliatelle. Cooking times vary; adjust a minute or two as needed.
FAQ 2: How can I reduce the sodium in this dish without sacrificing flavor?
Use low-sodium broth and skip extra salt. Rely on garlic, pepper, paprika, lemon zest, and herbs for brightness. Freshly grated Parmesan is salty—use less or swap to a lighter cheese.
FAQ 3: Is this recipe suitable for meal-prep during the week?
Yes. Cook noodles to al dente and keep sauce separate until serving. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or pasta water and toss to coat.
FAQ 4: What dairy-free or lighter alternatives work well here?
Go dairy-free with olive oil instead of butter and a dairy-free cheese substitute. Add nutritional yeast for cheesy depth. A splash of almond or oat milk adds creaminess without dairy.
Final Thoughts
The everyday joy of a creamy, comforting weeknight dinner
Chicken Buttered Noodles has become my weeknight hug. I love that glossy sauce clings to every noodle after a long day. Simple pantry staples turn into something special, fast.
As a home cook, I savor the quiet joy when a meal lands perfectly. That moment when someone asks for seconds? Pure proof this dish works.
Chicken Buttered Noodles keeps me steady on busy nights and helps me show up for family dinners. The pot is never just supper, it’s a small celebration of flavors and togetherness. With every bite of Chicken Buttered Noodles, I’m reminded why home cooking wins.
Print
Chicken Buttered Noodles are Creamy Comforting Easy 40m.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Chicken Buttered Noodles are creamy, comforting and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into small pieces
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Add garlic: Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the sauce: Add butter, chicken broth, and milk. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Make it creamy: Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Add cooked noodles into the skillet and toss until coated in the buttery sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy warm!
Notes
- You can substitute fettuccine or another pasta shape if desired.
- For a lighter version, reduce butter by half or use olive oil only.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to help control the dish’s sodium level.
- Garnish with extra parsley or additional grated Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: Chicken Buttered Noodles, creamy pasta, chicken noodles, buttered noodles, easy weeknight dinner