One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted a comforting, fuss-free dinner that combines savory flavors and a touch of indulgence, then this recipe for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is an absolute must-try. It brings together tender, perfectly seasoned chicken alongside silky, buttery noodles all cooked in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze and your taste buds very happy. Each bite offers a balanced harmony of savory spices, creamy textures, and that warm, homey feeling you crave after a long day. Trust me, once you make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, it’s going to become your go-to weeknight meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is essential, building layers of flavor and texture without overwhelming you with complexity. From the aromatic garlic to the silky butter, every component plays a starring role.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: They provide a lean protein base that cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle depth of savory garlic flavor without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a mild sweetness and earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a smoky warmth and vibrant color to the chicken.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Creates the flavorful cooking liquid that keeps noodles and chicken moist.
• 8 ounces egg noodles: These tender noodles soak up the broth and butter for a rich, luscious texture.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and smoothness that makes the noodles irresistibly silky.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic punches up the savory notes in the butter sauce.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For a cheesy finish that adds umami and a little tang.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, herbal pop of color and brightness at the end.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry to ensure they brown nicely. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over the chicken for a flavorful crust that will infuse every bite.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown. This initial sear locks in juices and builds tasty, caramelized layers.

Step 3: Add Broth and Noodles

Lower the heat to medium and carefully pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then add the egg noodles, ensuring they’re mostly submerged. This step allows the noodles to cook in the flavorful broth alongside the chicken.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the skillet loosely and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the chicken is fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking, and check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Finish with Butter and Garlic

Reduce the heat to low, add the butter and minced garlic to the noodles and chicken. Stir gently until the butter melts and coats the noodles, creating that signature rich, silky texture. This final touch brings harmony to flavors and textures in your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles.

Step 6: Add Optional Parmesan and Garnish

If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top. Toss lightly to melt the cheese slightly into the noodles. Finish with a scattering of fresh parsley to brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley add a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the butter and cheese. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a little brightness.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to add some greens, a crisp side salad or steamed broccoli pairs beautifully. Roasted vegetables like carrots or asparagus also complement the warm, buttery noodles perfectly without overwhelming the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive touch, serve this in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan on top. You might even add a light drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. Sharing this cozy dish family-style right from the pan brings a delightfully rustic charm to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles to an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weekdays.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers, though the noodles may soften further upon thawing. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming without drying out the chicken or noodles.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a slightly richer flavor, but keep cooking times similar and check for doneness.

What if I don’t have egg noodles?

Other pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or even fettuccine can work well. Just adjust cooking times according to package instructions since different pastas vary in cook time.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a plant-based margarine. Omit the Parmesan or use dairy-free cheese to keep it vegan-friendly.

Can I add vegetables directly into the pan?

Definitely! Adding quick-cooking veggies like spinach, peas, or mushrooms during the last few minutes of simmering adds nutrition and flavor with minimal effort.

How do I know when the noodles are fully cooked?

Check the texture by tasting a noodle near the end of the simmering step. They should be tender but still have a slight bite, not mushy. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on your stove and noodle brand.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is truly a winning combination of ease, flavor, and comfort. It’s the kind of dish you can quickly whip up on hectic evenings while still serving something that feels special and satisfying. Give it a try—I promise you’ll love how seamlessly the buttery noodles and perfectly seasoned chicken come together in one delicious pan.

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