One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

If you’re looking for a comforting, quick, and utterly delicious dinner option, this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Combining tender, juicy chicken with silky buttered noodles, all cooked together in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup, this dish is a celebration of simplicity and taste. Whether you’re craving something hearty on a busy weeknight or want a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug, this recipe brings it all together effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Convenient: Everything cooks in one pan, saving time on prep and cleanup without compromising flavor.
• Rich and Comforting: Buttered noodles paired with juicy chicken create a cozy dish that feels like a warm embrace.
• Versatile Flavors: Easily adapt the seasonings or add veggies to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences.
• Quick to Prepare: From pantry staples to the dinner table in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and familiar ingredients make this meal a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and balanced dish. Each element adds to the taste, texture, and color, making your meal visually appealing and satisfying without a fuss.

• Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless cuts for even cooking and tender bites.
• Egg Noodles: These wide, flat noodles soak up butter beautifully for a silky texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and a smooth finish to both the chicken and noodles.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes.
• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture for the noodles to cook and deepens the overall flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, savory kick that perfectly complements the noodles and chicken.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme add a fresh pop of color and brightness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential to season the chicken and noodles just right.

Variations for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

One of the best things about this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is how easily you can tweak it. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to cater to allergies, dietary needs, or just to mix things up based on what’s in your fridge.

• Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or mushrooms during the last few minutes for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika if you want a little heat.
• Use Different Protein: Swap chicken breasts for thighs or even turkey for a flavor twist.
• Try Cream Instead of Broth: For a richer sauce, substitute some or all the broth with cream or half-and-half.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free noodles and ensure broth is gluten-free to keep it allergy-friendly.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Warm a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook until golden brown on both sides and just cooked through, typically about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan, add a little more butter and toss in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Add egg noodles to the skillet, then pour in chicken broth slowly, ensuring the noodles are evenly submerged. Bring to a simmer, cover the pan, and let the noodles cook until tender, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Noodles

Place the cooked chicken back into the pan on top of the noodles. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over everything and add a few dollops of butter. Cover the pan again and let it sit off the heat for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and flavors to blend.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for brightness. Serve right away while it’s warm and comforting.

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Use a Wide Skillet: This helps noodles cook evenly and prevents overcrowding the chicken pieces.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Remove it from heat as soon as it’s no longer pink to keep it juicy.
• Reserve Some Broth: Keep a little broth on hand in case noodles absorb too much and need more liquid.
• Butter at the End: Stir in extra butter last for ultimate creaminess and flavor boost.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Add fresh herbs at the end, not during cooking, to maintain their vibrant taste and color.

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives make a beautiful, bright garnish. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese can also enhance the richness and presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Steamed broccoli or sautéed asparagus also complement the buttery flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it family-style straight from the skillet for a warm, inviting vibe or plate it individually, topped with herbs and a wedge of lemon to brighten the flavors even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles may absorb more sauce, so add a little broth or water when reheating to loosen them up.

Freezing

Freeze cooked One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent dryness and keep the noodles silky.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more juiciness and flavor, and they work perfectly in this one-pan recipe.

What type of noodles work best?

Egg noodles are ideal due to their shape and texture, but you can also use fettuccine, pappardelle, or even small pasta like penne in a pinch.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store in individual containers and reheat with a little extra broth for quick, tasty meals throughout the week.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free spread and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?

Stir the noodles occasionally during cooking and make sure there’s enough broth to cover them evenly; this keeps them from clumping together.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is a timeless classic that’s as comforting as it is convenient. From the golden chicken to the rich, buttery noodles, every bite feels like a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together beautifully. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a cozy dinner with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

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