If you are looking for an absolutely comforting and effortless meal to make on a busy weeknight, the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe will quickly become your new best friend. This dish brings tender, juicy chicken breasts together with rich and creamy buttered noodles all cooked in a single skillet, combining deep flavors and a luscious texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating those irresistible flavors and textures. From the juicy chicken breasts to the creamy richness of butter and Parmesan, these simple staples come together beautifully to form a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The protein centerpiece, easy to cook and tender when done right.
- Olive oil: Perfect for searing chicken to a golden brown crust with a subtle fruitiness.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Adds fragrant depth and a savory punch that enhances every bite.
- Chicken broth: The flavorful base that infuses the noodles and keeps everything juicy.
- Heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess making the noodles ultra-rich and comforting.
- Egg noodles: The tender, slightly chewy noodles that soak up all the tasty sauce.
- Butter: Adds richness and silkiness to the dish’s sauce and noodles.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory, nutty finish that perfectly balances the cream.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish giving color and a hint of freshness.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat—the perfect temperature to create a golden, flavorful crust on your chicken breasts. Season your chicken generously with salt and pepper, then sear each side for 5 to 6 minutes. You want that gorgeous caramelized exterior while ensuring it’s cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, set the chicken aside; the skillet is about to work its magic for the noodles.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Simmer the Noodles
With the flavorful chicken drippings still in the pan, add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—this quick step is key to building an aromatic base. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, raising the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Now stir in your egg noodles, cover the skillet, and let them cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so the noodles cook evenly and absorb the delicious, creamy broth.
Step 3: Add Butter, Parmesan, and Return the Chicken
When the noodles are tender and swimming in a creamy sauce, stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. This step transforms the dish into a velvety, luscious experience that you won’t want to stop eating. Finally, nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet allowing everything to mingle and warm through perfectly together.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish. This simple garnish adds a burst of green vibrancy and a hint of herbal freshness that perfectly contrasts with the creamy noodles and rich chicken.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp, light side salad or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to balance the richness on the plate. A tangy vinaigrette salad can lend a lively brightness complementing the buttery noodles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive occasion, serve the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe in individual shallow bowls, topping each portion with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a small wedge of lemon for squeezing over. This adds a subtle citrus note that elevates the entire dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it rests, making it a perfect next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to store the dish for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container. Just be aware that the creamy sauce and noodles might slightly change texture after freezing, but it will still taste delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. This helps maintain that creamy consistency without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully and add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking times slightly as thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
Heavy cream is key to getting that rich, luscious sauce for the noodles. You can substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be quite as thick or creamy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free chicken broth to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano cheeses are excellent substitutes that offer similar nutty, salty flavors. If you’re out of all hard cheeses, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy note.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cutting into the thickest part to check that it’s opaque and juices run clear is a good indicator.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a full, hearty meal with just one pan and a handful of simple ingredients. The One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is not only a lifesaver on busy days but also a dish that feels special enough to share. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the blissful combination of creamy noodles and juicy chicken that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite in no time!
Print
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe offers a delicious, creamy, and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and cooked together with egg noodles in a flavorful garlic-infused broth, enriched with butter and Parmesan cheese. The entire dish is prepared in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze while delivering a satisfying dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Noodles and Sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the egg noodles, cover the skillet, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
- Combine & Finish: Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese into the noodles until melted and creamy. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the noodles. Allow the chicken to heat through for a couple of minutes.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm for a comforting one-pan meal.
Notes
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken to keep it moist and tender.
- Stir the noodles occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, but the sauce may be less rich.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- If you want to add vegetables, peas or spinach can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
