As I caught a whiff of buttery noodles mingling with seared chicken, I knew this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles was about to transform my weeknight routine. This comforting dish marries tender chicken with rich, creamy noodles in a delightful embrace that’ll have you reminiscing about home-cooked meals from childhood. Not only is it a quick weeknight meal that brings the family together, but cleanup is a breeze with just one pan to wash! Whether you’re looking to indulge after a busy day or impress your loved ones without breaking the bank, this recipe checks all the boxes. Curious how this one-pan magic happens? Let’s dive in! Why Will You Love This Recipe? Simplicity: This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles requires just one skillet, making both preparation and cleanup effortless. Comforting Flavors: The blend of buttery noodles and juicy chicken creates a nostalgic comfort food experience that’s reminiscent of home-cooked meals. Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal fast. Budget-Friendly: Utilizing pantry staples, this recipe is kind to your wallet, ensuring that delicious dinners don’t have to be expensive. Versatile Options: With simple swaps, like using gluten-free pasta or adding veggies, it can be easily tailored to fit dietary preferences. Enjoy this alongside your favorite Honey Bbq Chicken or as a delightful standalone meal! One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish, providing tenderness and flavor; can use chicken thighs for added richness. • Butter – Adds creaminess and depth to the noodles; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option. For the Noodles • Egg Noodles – Serve as the perfect base, soaking up the buttery sauce; any pasta will do, just adjust cooking time as needed. • Garlic – Adds aromatic depth and enhances overall flavor; it’s essential, so no substitutions here. For the Flavor and Garnish • Parmesan Cheese – Provides a salty bite that enhances the noodles; you can swap in mozzarella or cheddar, though the flavor will differ. • Fresh Parsley – A touch of freshness and color for garnish; no substitutions needed. • Chicken Broth – Infuses flavor into the dish while cooking the noodles; a store-bought low-sodium broth is acceptable. Now that you have all the ingredients to make this comforting One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, you’re all set to create a cozy culinary delight your whole family will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Step 1: Melt the Butter In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it’s foamy and begins to bubble gently. This will create a rich base for our One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn, stirring occasionally for about 1-2 minutes until it’s completely melted. Step 2: Cook the Chicken Add 1 pound of diced chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they’re spread evenly in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when it’s no longer pink in the center and has a fragrant aroma. Step 3: Add the Garlic Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning. This step enhances the flavor profile of the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, making the dish irresistible as the garlic mingles with the juices from the chicken. Step 4: Blend with Chicken Broth Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. You’ll see small bubbles rising, indicating it’s ready for the next step. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, which will help to deepen the flavors and create a savory sauce for the noodles. Step 5: Incorporate the Noodles Add 8 ounces of egg noodles to the simmering chicken broth mixture. Stir well to ensure the noodles are fully submerged and the flavors meld. Cover the skillet, reducing to low heat, and cook for 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Parsley Once the noodles are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese along with a handful of chopped fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly to combine everything, allowing the cheese to melt and unite the dish. Serve hot, garnishing with additional parsley if desired for a fresh touch. One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Variations Feel free to get creative with this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles and experiment with delightful twists that suit your family’s tastes! Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian meal. The creamy noodles still shine with this change! Nutty Flavor: Add toasted almonds or pine nuts for an unexpected crunch and earthy taste that elevates the dish beautifully. It can transform a simple meal into something special! Colorful Veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or peas while the noodles cook to incorporate vibrant colors and nutrients. Your family will love the added freshness! Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this comforting dish without worries. The flavors remain intact, and you won’t miss out on any of the deliciousness! Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream just before serving for extra creaminess. It’s a little indulgence that makes every bite richer. Spicy Kick: For spice lovers, mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the chicken while cooking for a zesty surprise. It adds excitement for those who enjoy a little heat! Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley to give the dish a distinct flavor. Each fresh herb brings its own unique aroma to the table! These variations not only accommodate dietary needs but also add creativity to your home cooking. If you’re looking for additional comforting chicken recipes, check out my Butter Chicken Comfort for another family favorite! Make Ahead Options These One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the chicken and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to save time on busy weeknights. Additionally, you can prepare the chicken broth and grated Parmesan cheese ahead of time for easier assembly. When you’re ready to serve, simply melt the butter, cook the chicken until browned, add the garlic, and pour in the chicken broth with the noodles; cover and cook until tender—this will ensure the dish remains just as delicious! Reheating leftovers in an airtight container can keep them fresh for up to 3 days. How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess. Freezer: This dish can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain flavor and texture. Reheating: When reheating, use a skillet over medium-low heat for even warming. Stir occasionally and add a little chicken broth to keep the noodles moist. What to Serve with One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles As the rich aromas of butter and garlic waft through your kitchen, pairing your comforting One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles becomes an exciting journey of flavor and texture. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, its crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the soft noodles. Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant greens add a pop of nutrition and color, balancing the richness of the pasta. Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing bite that elevates the meal beyond ordinary comfort food. For a heartier side, consider a side of roasted carrots—they bring sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and golden, crispy edges provide an excellent complement to the buttery chicken. Herbed Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice infused with herbs captures drippings from the chicken, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Chardonnay: A chilled glass elegantly complements the buttery flavors while enhancing the overall dining experience, making every bite memorable. Chocolate Mousse: Finish the meal with a rich dessert that combines creaminess with a touch of indulgence, leaving everyone dreaming of the next family feast. Expert Tips for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles • Prep Ahead: Slice chicken and mince garlic the night before to save time when you’re ready to cook. • Adjust Cooking Time: If using a different pasta, be mindful of the cooking time to avoid overcooked noodles, ensuring the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles remains delightful. • Flavor Boost: For a richer taste, add a splash of white wine before incorporating the broth; it elevates the dish without much effort. • Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; gently reheat to preserve the creamy texture. • Customizable Heat: If your family enjoys a kick, add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the chicken while cooking for a warm, zesty surprise! One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for this dish? Absolutely! I recommend using chicken breasts for their tenderness and flavor, but chicken thighs can be a delicious alternative if you’re looking for something richer. Just ensure they are cooked through to avoid any health issues. How long can I store leftovers of One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles? Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to bring back that creamy texture. Can I freeze One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles? Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To do so, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to the container, making sure to leave a bit of space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best flavor and texture. What should I do if my noodles are overcooked? Fear not! If you’ve overcooked your noodles, one quick fix is to add a splash of chicken broth and stir gently while reheating. This will help rehydrate them a bit. Remember, keeping a close eye on them during the cooking time is key. If they do become mushy, consider it an opportunity to transform them into a creamy soup by adding more broth and blending. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very much so! This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles can easily accommodate gluten-free diets by using gluten-free pasta. For those adhering to dairy-free diets, swap the butter for olive oil and omit the parmesan, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always check for allergies related to chicken and broth, especially if cooking for guests. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? To ensure your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The chicken should also be white throughout with no pink remaining, and it should have a lovely golden sear from cooking. One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for a Cozy Dinner This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken and rich, creamy noodles for a satisfying weeknight meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound diced chicken breasts can substitute with chicken thighs for added richness2 tablespoons butter or substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free optionFor the Noodles8 ounces egg noodles can substitute with any pasta, just adjust cooking time3 cloves garlic minced, no substitutions allowedFor the Flavor and Garnish½ cup grated parmesan cheese can swap in mozzarella or cheddar1 bunch fresh parsley chopped, no substitutions needed3 cups chicken broth store-bought low-sodium is acceptable Equipment Skillet Method Cooking InstructionsMelt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until foamy, stirring occasionally for 1-2 minutes.Add the diced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned.Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes.Add the egg noodles to the skillet, ensure they are submerged, and cover, cooking for 8-10 minutes.Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, mixing until combined. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesPrep ahead by slicing chicken and mincing garlic the night before. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
