One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

If you love comfort food that comes together effortlessly, One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is about to become your new best friend. Juicy seasoned chicken breasts are nestled in a bed of creamy, buttery egg noodles—all cooked together in a single skillet for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. With just a handful of familiar ingredients, this cozy main dish transforms weeknight dinners into something delightfully special, without complicating your evening.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles so irresistible is its honest simplicity—every ingredient is there for a good reason. Each one lends a signature flavor, velvety texture, or pops of color, coming together in a dish that truly tastes like more effort than it is.

• Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken for quick cooking and that satisfying, hearty protein.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple, essential seasonings that wake up all the flavors of the dish.
• Garlic powder: Lends depth and a gentle savory warmth that lingers in every bite.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps develop a glorious golden sear on the chicken.
• Butter: Makes both the chicken and noodles irresistibly silky and flavorful—use part for searing, part for finishing.
• Fresh garlic: Minced cloves bloom in butter for a real aromatic boost; skip the jarred variety if you can.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the noodles with savory depth while keeping everything perfectly moist.
• Egg noodles: Their tender bite and classic comfort-food appeal are perfect for this all-in-one skillet dinner.
• Heavy cream: Brings lush, creamy texture so every bite feels a little bit indulgent.
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the noodles for a salty, nutty finish—freshly grated works best here.
• Parsley (optional): Adds a burst of fresh color and an herbal pop to finish.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This simple trio is the secret behind every juicy, flavorful piece of chicken. Don’t skimp—it sets the tone for the dish and makes the chicken pop against the creamy noodles later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is foaming, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown crust and fully cooked chicken. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm; this short rest helps the juices redistribute.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Without wiping out the skillet, melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells incredible and the garlic is just softened—but not brown.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Reduce the heat, and let the noodles simmer uncovered for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring now and then. They’ll absorb the broth, taking on savory depth, while becoming gorgeously tender.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

When most of the liquid is absorbed and the noodles are plump, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until it’s all smooth and creamy. Nestle the chicken breasts back into the noodles (slice them beforehand if you like), and let everything warm through for 2 to 3 minutes. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy—and serve hot!

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra Parmesan and a dusting of chopped fresh parsley over the entire skillet right before serving. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds an unexpected kick. Even a squeeze of fresh lemon can lift all the flavors of the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles.

Side Dishes

While this meal truly stands on its own, you can round it out beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted seasonal veggies. Warm garlic bread is also perfect for scooping up every last morsel of those buttered noodles.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, slice the chicken breasts before returning them to the skillet—nestle the slices over the noodles so every plate looks extra inviting. Serve family-style right from the pan, or plate individual portions with a swirl of noodles and lean the sliced chicken on top. This approach makes even a busy weeknight dinner feel like something special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles keeps well for up to three days. The flavors only meld and deepen as it rests, making tomorrow’s lunch even tastier.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, though the noodles may soften a bit after thawing. Let everything cool completely before sealing in freezer-safe containers. For best results, use within a month, and allow to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual servings—just cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until hot all the way through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit juicier and work beautifully in this recipe. Just adjust the cook time if needed to make sure they’re cooked through.

What other noodles can I use?

While classic egg noodles give the dish its signature texture, you can substitute with rotini, fusilli, or even wide ribbon pasta if that’s what you have. Just keep an eye on the liquid and the cook time, as different noodles absorb broth differently.

Is it possible to make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the butter for a vegan alternative and use coconut or oat cream plus your favorite dairy-free cheese. The flavor and creaminess will be a bit different, but you’ll still get a delicious result.

How can I add more veggies to this dish?

Veggies like spinach, peas, or broccoli florets work especially well. Stir them in with the noodles so they get tender while soaking up all that buttery flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms also add a lovely twist.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Certainly! Double everything, just make sure you have a large enough skillet to hold all the ingredients comfortably, or use two pans. The beauty of One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is how easily it scales up.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a meal that brings comfort and joy with just one pan—and One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles delivers every single time. I hope you give this creamy, cozy classic a spot at your table soon. Let me know how you make it your own and share the love with friends and family!

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