There is nothing quite as satisfying as a dish that combines simplicity, comfort, and incredible flavor, which is exactly why the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe has become a personal favorite in my kitchen. This dish brings together juicy, golden chicken breasts with rich, buttery egg noodles, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor harmony. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe delivers a luscious, creamy experience that fills the home with mouthwatering aromas and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is deceptively simple but packed with essential ingredients that work together beautifully. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken, which provides protein and savoriness, to the creamy sauce that clings lovingly to the noodles, offering indulgent texture and depth.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose even-sized breasts for consistent cooking and juicy results.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth that pairs perfectly with creamy sauces.
- Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base of the sauce and cooks the noodles tenderly.
- Heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that turns the sauce silky and decadent.
- Egg noodles: The perfect tender pasta that soaks up the sauce and balances the richness.
- Butter: Adds a velvety sheen and rich mouthfeel in every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, savory finish that enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other ingredients.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A bright, herbaceous touch that adds freshness and a pop of color.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. You want a golden, slightly crispy exterior while ensuring the chicken is cooked through and juicy inside. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside, letting the juices rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
In that same skillet, now infused with chicken flavors, toss in the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant—this only takes a minute and really boosts the taste profile of the dish. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then add the egg noodles. Cover the skillet and let the noodles cook for 8 to 10 minutes until tender, absorbing the creamy broth.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Once the noodles are perfectly tender, stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese; this transforms the sauce into a rich, velvety coating that clings to every noodle. Return the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet to heat through and soak up some of that delicious sauce. This one-pan magic ensures every bite is infused with comforting flavor.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate this dish beautifully. I love sprinkling freshly chopped parsley on top, giving a fresh and slightly herbal note as well as a splash of vibrant green that makes the meal look as good as it tastes. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also add an elegant finishing touch for cheese lovers.
Side Dishes
Because this meal is hearty and filling by itself, I often pair it with something light and crisp like a green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or green beans. These sides bring a welcome balance by adding texture and refreshing flavors that brighten up the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Plate the chicken atop a generous bed of buttery noodles, then drizzle some of the luscious sauce over everything. For a more rustic, family-style presentation, serve the entire skillet right at the table so everyone can dig in straight from the pan. Either way, the inviting aroma and beautiful colors make for a meal that’s both casual and captivating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any left (which sometimes feels impossible!), transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for even better next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the texture of the noodles may slightly change upon thawing. To freeze, cool completely and place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
When reheating, add a small splash of chicken broth or cream to the pan and warm gently over medium-low heat. This helps revive the creamy sauce and prevents the noodles from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through and ready to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and soak up the sauce perfectly, you can try other pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or even small shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they cook through without overcooking.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free butter substitute. Skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese option. This will create a slightly different flavor but still keep the creamy, comforting essence of the dish.
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Cooking chicken breasts evenly is key: make sure to pound them to an even thickness if needed and avoid overcooking. Cooking them on medium heat and removing them as soon as they reach 165°F (74°C) ensures juiciness and tenderness.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or noodles. Just be sure to check that your chicken broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid any hidden gluten.
How can I add more vegetables to this meal?
Great idea! You can toss in some chopped spinach, peas, or mushrooms during the noodle cooking phase to sneak in extra nutrients and flavor. Just add vegetables that cook quickly so they maintain their texture and freshness.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe a try because it’s one of those unforgettable meals that makes you feel cozy, satisfied, and proud all at once. The ease of cooking it all in one pan means you get maximum taste with minimal fuss, perfect for busy nights or anytime comfort food is calling your name. Trust me, once you savor that creamy, buttery sauce wrapped around tender chicken and noodles, this will quickly become a beloved staple at your table.
Print
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered 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
A comforting and easy one-pan chicken recipe served with creamy buttered egg noodles. Tender seared chicken breasts are cooked and then combined with garlic-infused creamy sauce and tender egg noodles, all prepared in a single skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce and Noodles
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce and Noodles: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the simmering sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed much of the liquid.
- Combine and Finish: Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the noodles. Heat through for a couple of minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful one-pan meal.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor and adjust amount to taste.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version but sauce may be less creamy.
- Make sure the noodles are submerged for even cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free adaptation, omit butter and Parmesan and substitute cream with coconut milk.
