One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hassle-free dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine tender, golden chicken breasts nestled atop rich, creamy egg noodles bathed in buttery garlic sauce with just a hint of Parmesan. It’s a beautifully simple dish that uses just one skillet to deliver maximum flavor and minimum cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying homemade meal without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating layers of flavor and a wonderful texture that will make your taste buds sing. These fundamentals come together in effortless harmony to give you that classic, cozy feel.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, which cooks up juicy and golden in the skillet.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used to sear the chicken beautifully and add a lovely richness to the dish.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory punch that brings everything alive.
• 2 cups chicken broth: The liquid base that tenderizes the noodles and keeps the flavors balanced.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess to the noodles for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• 8 oz egg noodles: The comforting pasta that soaks up all the buttery goodness and sauce.
• 3 tbsp butter: Enriches the noodles with a silky finish and glossy shine.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, salty kick that rounds out the flavor perfectly.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a splash of color for presentation.

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. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the hot skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they develop that gorgeous golden crust and are cooked through. The aroma will have your kitchen smelling irresistible. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm while you move to the next step.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles

In the same skillet, don’t wash away those tasty browned bits just yet! Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about a minute. This step wakes up the garlic’s flavor, building depth for the sauce. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently and bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add the egg noodles to the skillet, cover it, and let them cook for roughly 8 to 10 minutes, until the noodles are tender, perfectly absorbing all that creamy, savory liquid.

Step 3: Combine and Finish

Once the noodles are cooked, stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. This will melt into a silky sauce that clings to every noodle strand with buttery luxury. Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, letting them warm through in the creamy sauce for a couple of minutes. This final step pulls it all together, creating a cohesive and indulgent one-pan meal.

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top right before serving. The pop of vibrant green adds freshness and a subtle herbal brightness that perfectly contrasts the rich, creamy noodles. A little cracked black pepper on top can also add a bit of texture and slight heat.

Side Dishes

Since this dish is wonderfully filling on its own, lighter, simple side dishes work best. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some steamed asparagus or green beans offers a refreshing crunch and balances the richness. Roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts also make lovely companions.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or make the meal feel extra special, serve the chicken sliced over a nest of noodles right on individual plates, drizzled with extra sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. For a rustic vibe, serve it straight from the skillet family-style, encouraging everyone to dig in freely.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld further, making the next day’s meal just as delightful.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers, but the texture of the noodles may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, place the dish in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce seems too thick. This will help revive the creamy texture and prevent the noodles from drying out. Microwave reheating works fine too, but stir occasionally for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to stay juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs might need a couple more minutes to cook through.

Is it possible to use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while egg noodles are traditional here, other short pasta like rotini, penne, or even fettuccine can substitute nicely. Just keep an eye on cooking times since different pasta shapes vary.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter. It will change the flavor slightly but still be delicious.

How can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Adding veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the noodle cooking step is a great way to boost the nutrition and color. Just toss them into the skillet when you add the noodles so they cook simultaneously.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This dish reheats well and can serve as a convenient meal prep option. Portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is a true testament to how simple ingredients and straightforward steps can combine into something heartwarming and special. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it delivers on flavor, comfort, and ease. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to meal—you’re going to love how effortless and delicious it is!