If you’re craving a comforting meal that brings together juicy chicken and creamy noodles without a mountain of dishes to clean up afterward, this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture perfectly seared chicken breasts nestled atop pillowy egg noodles bathed in a luscious sauce of chicken broth, cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Every bite sings with warmth and flavor, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste or ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe shines because of its simple yet purposeful ingredients. Each component works in harmony, adding depth, creaminess, and that irresistible balance between savory and buttery goodness.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Essential for lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden brown crisp.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds that fragrant, aromatic kick that wakes up the whole dish.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The savory base that ensures the noodles cook flavorful and moist.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings luscious creaminess that turns the sauce silky smooth.
- 8 oz egg noodles: Classic, tender noodles that soak up every bit of sauce.
- 3 tbsp butter: Infuses richness and a velvety mouthfeel to the noodles.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish with just the right saltiness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To enhance all flavors perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish): Provides a pop of fresh color and brightness at the end.
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. While it’s warming up, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts and sear each side for about 5 to 6 minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden brown color and are cooked through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure juiciness without dryness. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—don’t worry, it’s only getting better from here.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Using the same skillet (hello, flavor left behind!), add the minced garlic and sauté just until it turns fragrant, about 30 seconds. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing this mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the egg noodles, cover the skillet, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This way the noodles become tender and soak up all the creamy, savory goodness of your sauce.
Step 3: Combine and Finish with Butter and Cheese
Once the noodles are tender, stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Watch as these ingredients melt into the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy and rich. Now, return the cooked chicken breasts back to the skillet, nestling them gently on top of the buttery noodles. Let everything warm through together so the flavors mingle perfectly.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is all you need to brighten this dish visually and add a touch of fresh herbaceous flavor. Not only does it look inviting, but the green contrast makes each serving feel special and vibrant.
Side Dishes
Though this recipe stands strong on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables elevates the meal. Consider simple steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans for added color, texture, and nutrition that balances the rich, creamy noodles and chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, serve this dish family-style right from the skillet at the table, letting everyone help themselves to the comforting goodness. Another idea is plating by layering the noodles first, then slicing the chicken and fanning it over the top, garnished with parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers quite delicious the next day.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes affect texture, this recipe holds up fairly well. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir often and heat until warmed through without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles work beautifully here thanks to their texture and ability to soak up sauce, you can swap in fettuccine, pappardelle, or even wide rice noodles for a fun variation.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep all the comforting flavors intact without gluten worries.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely. Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, making sure the thighs are cooked through but still tender.
What can I do to make this dish lighter?
Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative, and use less butter. You might also reduce the Parmesan slightly to keep flavor vibrant but calories lower.
How do I make the chicken extra crispy?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and searing, and make sure your skillet and oil are hot enough before adding the chicken. Avoid overcrowding the pan to let the chicken form a nice crust.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is truly a treasure for anyone who loves hearty, comforting food without the fuss. It perfectly balances simplicity with indulgence, and I can’t wait for you to enjoy every creamy, buttery bite. Trust me, once you’ve made it, this will quickly become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation. Give it a try and savor the cozy flavors!
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
A comforting and easy one-pan chicken dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a creamy, buttery sauce with egg noodles. This recipe combines sautéed garlic, rich chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful meal that comes together in just 35 minutes, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Noodles
- 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 generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach 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 for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the egg noodles, then cover the skillet. Cook the noodles for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and have absorbed the flavors.
- Combine & Finish: Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese into the noodles and sauce mixture until they melt and create a creamy texture. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the noodles and sauce. Let the chicken warm through for a couple of minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve the chicken and buttered noodles warm for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Stir the noodles occasionally to prevent sticking and achieve even cooking.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creamy texture.
- Optional garnish of parsley adds freshness and color.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, although it will be less rich.
