There’s something undeniably comforting about the sound of sizzling chicken and the buttery aroma wafting through the kitchen. As the chaos of the week begins to take its toll, I often find solace in simple meals that bring joy without the fuss. Enter my One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles—a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also rekindles fond memories of family dinners. This recipe embodies everything we love about comfort food: tender chicken, rich flavors, and minimal cleanup.
Imagine a busy weeknight where you can have a gourmet-style meal on the table in no time. With just one pan, you can create a symphony of taste as garlic infuses the air and egg noodles soak up all the savory goodness of chicken broth. This dish is not only a breeze to whip up but also a favorite among kids and adults alike, making it the perfect choice for family gatherings or an easy weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into this cozy recipe that will soon become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Why love One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires just one pan, making cleanup a breeze and cooking effortless.
Flavor Explosion: Rich butter and garlic flavor infuse the noodles and chicken, creating a cozy, comforting dish.
Family-Friendly: It’s loved by both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Quick Dinner: Get this meal on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for your busy weeknights.
Versatile Options: Easily customize with veggies or protein swaps, so you never get bored.
This dish is truly an ideal weeknight staple that combines flavor and convenience all in one!
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – the star of the dish, juicy and perfect for soaking up flavors.
- Butter – enriches the noodles with creaminess; essential for a flavorful base.
For the Noodles
- Egg Noodles – soft and perfect for absorbing that delicious buttery goodness.
- Garlic – brings aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this!
For the Finishing Touches
- Parmesan Cheese – adds a savory bite and creaminess; can substitute with mozzarella or cheddar if desired.
- Fresh Parsley – brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
For Flavor Enhancement
- Chicken Broth – enhances the overall flavor, essential for cooking the noodles to perfection.
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the comfort food you didn’t know you needed, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
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Season Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a generous sprinkle of garlic powder. This step lays the foundation for flavorful, juicy meat.
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Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sauté until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
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Remove Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil to keep warm while you prepare the noodles.
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Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed, then toss in minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
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Simmer Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer. This will create a rich and savory base for the noodles to absorb.
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Cook Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the skillet and stir well. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re al dente, ensuring they soak up all that delicious broth and flavor.
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Combine & Serve: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, mixing to combine. Finally, return the chicken to the pan, ensuring everything is well coated and heated through. Serve hot with optional extra Parmesan on top.
Optional: Drizzle with olive oil for a touch of richness before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If you want to take it a step further, you can also chop the garlic and refrigerate it ready to toss in. For the noodles, it’s best to cook them fresh right before serving for the ultimate texture. When you’re ready to prepare your cozy dinner, simply sauté the marinated chicken and garlic, simmer the broth, add the noodles, and finish with Parmesan cheese and parsley. This way, your meal retains its delicious quality, bringing comfort to your busy weeknights with minimal effort!
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this comforting dish with a few fun variations!
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Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer, juicier flavor that’s hard to resist. The dark meat brings an added depth to the dish, enhancing the overall taste experience.
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Whole Wheat Noodles: Use whole wheat egg noodles instead of regular for a healthier twist that still gives you that comforting texture. You’ll enjoy the nutty flavor while increasing fiber in your meal.
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Vegetable Medley: Stir in fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms when adding the noodles for a burst of color and nutrients. This not only enhances the dish visually but also creates a delightful balance of flavors.
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Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a luscious, velvety sauce that takes the flavor to the next level. This add-in makes every bite feel indulgent—perfect for special occasions!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking for a spicy twist that brings a delightful heat to your buttery noodles. The spice complements the creaminess beautifully and keeps things interesting.
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Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a satisfying vegetarian version. You won’t miss the meat with all that flavor packed in!
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Nutty Twist: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds just before serving for added crunch and a hint of nutty flavor. This simple addition elevates the dish while making it more visually appealing.
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Zesty Lemon: Drizzle fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist. The acidity cuts through the richness, creating a perfect balance of taste.
Let your creativity flow, and turn this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles into your own culinary masterpiece!
How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days to maintain flavor and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess and flavor.
Reminder: The One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is best enjoyed fresh, but with proper storage, you can savor the leftovers too!
Expert Tips for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
- Prep Ahead: Marinate your chicken and chop the garlic the night before to save time on busy evenings.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent drying it out; use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skip on butter! It’s crucial for a rich sauce, so make sure to add the right amount for tasty noodles.
- Stir Frequently: When cooking the noodles, stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking and to ensure even flavor absorption.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Consider adding spinach or mushrooms for an extra nutritional punch and to spice up the dish, enhancing your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles!
What to Serve with One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
Enhance your dinner experience with these delightful pairings that complement the cozy flavors of this hearty dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds a vibrant green and crunchy texture, balancing the creamy noodles perfectly. A burst of freshness will brighten every bite!
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, offering a crispy, buttery element to soak up any remaining sauce. It’s the ultimate comforting duo.
- Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing and crunchy romaine leaves provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery flavors, making each forkful delightful.
- Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness caramelizes beautifully and provides a lovely color and flavor balance against the savory chicken.
- Red Wine: A smooth, fruity red enhances the meal’s richness, providing warmth to every sip alongside the comforting dinner plate.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this airy treat offers a decadent finish, leaving everyone with a sweet memory of the meal.
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate between bites, ensuring everyone enjoys each flavor.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, these dreamy potatoes contrast nicely and provide even more satisfaction alongside the tender chicken.
- Zucchini Noodles: Opt for a lighter side by using zoodles, adding a hint of crunch while keeping things fresh and healthy. Perfect for a veggie boost!
- Lemon Sorbet: For a light dessert, the zesty flavor has a refreshing effect, cleansing the palate after a hearty meal.
With these pairings, your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles dinner is destined to be a cozy and satisfying family feast!
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe FAQs
Should the chicken breasts be fresh or frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they cook evenly and retain moisture. However, if you’re using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat for optimal taste and texture.
Can I freeze One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
Yes! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in a resealable freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth to bring back its creamy goodness.
What if the noodles are too soggy?
If you find your noodles are soggy, they may have been overcooked or the heat was too high. To remedy this, you can try draining some of the broth and briefly sautéing the noodles over medium heat until they firm up slightly. Remember to stir continuously to avoid burning.
Is this dish suitable for kids?
Very! This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is not only kid-friendly due to its mild flavors, but it also provides a balanced meal. You can even sneak in some finely chopped veggies like spinach or carrots to boost nutrition without them noticing!
Are there any alternatives for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! For a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free noodles, and for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu. Each alternative still allows you to enjoy the rich flavors while catering to dietary needs!
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for Quick Cozy Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a generous sprinkle of garlic powder.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sauté until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed, then toss in minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the egg noodles to the skillet and stir well. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they're al dente.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, mixing to combine. Return the chicken to the pan and serve hot.