Savory Chicken with Buttered Noodles Simple Recipe

January 5, 2026August 29, 2025 by Chef Jamie

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 200g egg noodles

– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1/2 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Optional Garnishes

You can add some fresh parsley on top of your dish. This adds color and a nice flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese is also a great choice. It adds a rich taste and makes the meal feel special.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use spaghetti or any pasta you like. For a lighter option, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk. If you want less fat, use low-fat chicken broth. Fresh garlic can be replaced with garlic powder; just use less. If you’re out of thyme, you can use Italian seasoning instead.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Noodles

To cook the noodles, start by boiling a large pot of salted water. This helps add flavor. Once the water boils, add 200g of egg noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions. You want them to be al dente, which means firm but not hard. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.

Preparing the Chicken

While your noodles cook, get your chicken ready. Take 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. This mix gives the chicken a nice flavor.

Making the Garlic Cream Sauce

Now, let’s make the sauce. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.

In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once it melts, add 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 1 minute until they smell great. Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pan to get all the tasty bits. Bring this to a simmer. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and cook for 3-5 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken a bit.

Combining Ingredients

Now, slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained noodles to the skillet too. Toss everything together so the noodles soak up the creamy sauce. Taste the dish and add more salt and pepper if needed.

Finally, plate the creamy garlic chicken with buttered noodles. You can garnish with chopped parsley and, if you like, some grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfectly Cooked Chicken

To get juicy chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season them well with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Sear the chicken in hot olive oil. Cook it for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color. Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Let it rest before slicing. This keeps it moist and tender.

Ensuring Creamy Sauce Consistency

For a rich sauce, start with butter in a hot skillet. Add minced garlic for flavor, sautéing just until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the pan to mix in all those tasty bits. Then, add heavy cream. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth. If too thin, simmer a bit longer. Always stir gently to keep that creamy texture.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

To boost flavors, think about herbs and spices. Thyme and paprika add warmth. You can also try a pinch of nutmeg or crushed red pepper for a kick. Fresh parsley brightens up the dish. If you love cheese, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top. It melts beautifully into the creamy sauce, adding depth. Taste your dish and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Always aim for a balance of flavors.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Replace the chicken with firm tofu. Press the tofu to remove extra water. Cut it into cubes and season with salt and pepper. Sear the tofu in olive oil until golden. Then, follow the same steps to make the garlic cream sauce. Toss the cooked noodles with the sauce and tofu. You will still enjoy a rich and creamy meal.

Adding Vegetables

Adding vegetables can boost flavor and nutrition. Try adding spinach, peas, or broccoli. You can sauté them in the skillet after cooking the garlic. Just cook them for a few minutes until tender. Then, mix them into the sauce with the noodles. This adds color and freshness to the dish.

Using Different Pasta Types

You don’t have to stick to egg noodles. You can use any pasta you like. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well too. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package. Each type of pasta can give the dish a new texture and taste. Feel free to experiment until you find your favorite!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Place the chicken and noodles in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Guidelines

When ready to eat, take the chicken and noodles out of the fridge. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Heat until warm, stirring often.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, pack the chicken and noodles in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to get rid of excess air. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat.

FAQs

How long does the chicken need to cook?

The chicken needs to cook for about 12 to 14 minutes. You should sear each side for 6 to 7 minutes. This will make sure the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is safe to eat.

Can I use whole wheat noodles?

Yes, you can use whole wheat noodles. They add a nutty flavor and more fiber. Cook them according to the package instructions. The cooking time may be a bit different. Whole wheat noodles may take a few minutes longer to become tender. Just taste them to see if they are done.

What can I serve with chicken and buttered noodles?

You can serve this dish with many sides. A fresh green salad pairs nicely. Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach also works well. You might try garlic bread for a tasty touch. For a complete meal, add a light soup or roasted vegetables. These options will round out your dinner beautifully.

This blog post covered everything you need for a delicious dish. We explored the key ingredients and cooking steps. You learned tips for perfect chicken and a creamy sauce. You can even try tasty variations or store leftovers for later.

Cooking can be fun and easy with these steps. Enjoy your meal and get creativ