If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dinner that feels like a warm hug, then this Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken breasts cooked right alongside buttery, garlicky egg noodles, making cleanup a breeze and flavor the star of the show. This dish not only screams cozy home cooking but also brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that everyone at the table will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together effortlessly to create a dish bursting with flavor and satisfying textures. Each component plays a key role: the chicken delivers protein and juiciness, butter adds richness, garlic brings a punch of aroma, and the noodles provide that beloved, comforting chew.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Ensure they are similar in size for even cooking and maximum juiciness.
- 8 ounces of egg noodles: Choose the classic type for perfect texture and easy cooking right in the skillet.
- 4 tablespoons of butter: Divided, this adds creamy richness at different cooking stages for layers of flavor.
- 1 cup of chicken broth: A must-have for cooking noodles in the pan, infusing the dish with savory depth.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives that irresistible aroma and savory kick you’ll love.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that unlock the natural flavors of your chicken and noodles.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a splash of color and a fresh herbal note to finish beautifully.
How to Make Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This butter not only prevents sticking but also creates a golden, flavorful crust on the chicken breasts. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes per side — patience here rewards you with tender, juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Remove Chicken and Sauté Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate and set it aside so it can rest. In the same skillet, don’t wash away all those browned bits; instead, add the minced garlic to the flavorful pan and sauté for just 30 seconds. This step infuses the remaining ingredients with that rich, fragrant garlic essence that makes every bite irresistible.
Step 3: Simmer the Noodles in Chicken Broth
Pour 1 cup of chicken broth directly into the skillet and bring to a boil, using the broth to lift all those delicious browned bits off the bottom. Then, add your egg noodles straight into the simmering broth. Cook according to the package’s instructions, usually about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This method allows the noodles to soak up that amazing broth flavor, making every strand taste like it was part of a special homemade broth all along.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Return Chicken
When the noodles are perfectly tender, lower the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and silky. This step gives the dish a luscious, glossy finish and that unmistakable buttery richness. Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips and gently mix them back into the skillet with the noodles, making sure every bite has a harmonious balance of tender chicken and buttery pasta.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley on top to add a vibrant pop of color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness. Your Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is now ready to enjoy — a simple, satisfying dinner that feels homemade without the fuss.
How to Serve Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A little goes a long way when it comes to garnishes. Beyond the chopped parsley sprinkled on top, you might add a grating of freshly cracked black pepper or a few shreds of Parmesan cheese to elevate the flavors. A lemon wedge on the side can also offer a zesty contrast that brightens the buttery richness, adding an unexpected but delightful twist.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully filling on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed or roasted seasonal veggies such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a refreshing crunch and a burst of color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner, serve this Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe right from the skillet to create a rustic, cozy vibe. For a dinner party, plate the noodles in neat nests on warmed plates, top with sliced chicken, and finish with a delicate drizzle of herb-infused olive oil. This simple upgrade makes your dish look as fabulous as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let them cool fully before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for busy weeknight lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Be sure to use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. When frozen, the noodles may absorb some broth liquid, so thaw gently in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve the texture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat this dish is gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the noodles’ moisture. Stir frequently until warmed through, or use a microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep that buttery goodness evenly distributed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, offering a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is it necessary to use chicken broth for the noodles?
While chicken broth adds incredible depth, you can substitute with vegetable broth or even water if needed. Just remember to adjust seasoning since broth adds that essential savory note.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta variety that cooks well in broth, such as rice noodles or gluten-free fusilli. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
Stir the noodles occasionally as they cook in the broth. Also, the butter added at the end helps to coat them, keeping them luscious and separate rather than clumped.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just use a larger skillet or pan to accommodate the extra ingredients, and keep an eye on cooking times, especially for the chicken to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simplicity and depth of flavor in this Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon — it may just become your new family favorite for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a comforting, wholesome meal done right.
Print
Easy 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
This Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a comforting, quick-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy seared chicken breasts are cooked in a skillet, then combined with tender egg noodles buttery garlic broth for a deliciously simple dinner in just one pan.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking chicken)
Noodles and Sauce
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter (for noodles)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the skillet and melt butter: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat to create a flavorful cooking base for the chicken.
- Cook the chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Add them to the hot skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Add broth and cook noodles: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the egg noodles. Cook the noodles in the broth according to the package instructions, typically about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add remaining butter: After the noodles are tender and have absorbed some broth, reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until fully melted, coating the noodles in rich flavor.
- Combine chicken and noodles: Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and return them to the skillet. Mix the chicken into the noodles thoroughly to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken and noodles for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, but cooking time may vary.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or lemon juice along with the chicken broth.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To add vegetables, consider sautéing mushrooms or spinach after cooking the garlic.
