One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. What if you could make a creamy, comforting meal in just one pan with minimal cleanup? Enter your new favorite dinner: One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. Juicy, flavorful chicken cooked to perfection and tossed with buttery, garlicky noodles it’s the ultimate comfort food. Simple ingredients, easy prep, and a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this one-pan wonder has you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess, fewer dishes, and all the flavor.
• Customizable: Make it creamy, spicy, or loaded with veggies your choice!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients Needed for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s talk about what you’ll need. No fancy ingredients just simple pantry staples.

Choosing the Right Chicken: Breast vs. Thighs

When it comes to making this dish, you have two main choices: chicken breasts or chicken thighs. Each has its pros and cons, so let’s break it down:

• Chicken Breasts: Leaner, cooks faster, and has a firmer texture. If you prefer a lighter dish, go for this option.
• Chicken Thighs: Juicier, more flavorful, and slightly fattier. They stay tender even if slightly overcooked.

If you’re a fan of extra-juicy chicken, thighs are the way to go. But if you want a leaner meal, stick to breasts. Either way, you’ll end up with something delicious!

The Perfect Noodles: Egg Noodles vs. Other Varieties

Egg noodles are the best choice for this dish because they cook quickly, soak up flavors beautifully, and have a soft, buttery texture. However, if you don’t have egg noodles, you can substitute them with:

• Fettuccine (for a creamier feel)
• Rotini or penne (for more bite)
• Spaghetti (for a lighter version)

Just remember: different noodles might need slight adjustments in cooking time and liquid amounts.

Essential Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers

This dish may be simple, but the flavors are bold! Here are a few secret ingredients that take it to the next level:

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a deep, rich flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: A little umami boost that makes everything better.
• Butter: The key to that irresistible creamy texture.
• Chicken Broth: Instead of water, use broth to infuse the noodles with flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: A pop of freshness to balance the richness.

“A sprinkle of Parmesan and a touch of fresh herbs can turn a simple meal into something restaurant-worthy.”

Step-by-Step Guide to Making One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Prepping the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

First things first seasoning! Don’t just throw your chicken in the pan and hope for the best. Give it some love.

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it get a golden crust.
• Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
• Cut into bite-sized pieces if you want faster cooking and easier eating.

Let the chicken sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the seasonings. This tiny step makes a huge difference!

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Time to get cooking! Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces.

• Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give the chicken space to sear properly.
• Once fully cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Don’t wash the pan! The leftover bits from the chicken will add insane flavor to the noodles.

Step 3: Preparing the Buttered Noodles for a Creamy Texture

Now, let’s work on those buttery noodles. In the same pan, add the butter and minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
• Add the egg noodles and stir to coat.
• Let it simmer until the noodles absorb most of the broth.

At this point, your kitchen will smell heavenly.

“One bite of these buttery, garlicky noodles and you’ll understand why this dish is a favorite.”

If you’re a fan of creamy comfort food, this Mac and Cheese is a must-try: Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 4: Bringing Everything Together in One Pan

Now that we have our chicken cooked and noodles simmering in buttery goodness, it’s time to combine everything for the ultimate one-pan meal.

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the noodles.
• Give everything a good stir, making sure the chicken gets coated with all that buttery, garlicky goodness.
• If you’re feeling indulgent, add the heavy cream at this stage for an ultra-creamy texture.
• Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and mix until melted and combined.
• Let it all simmer for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to marry.

By now, your kitchen smells amazing, and your taste buds are on high alert.

“One-pan meals are like magic—everything just comes together effortlessly, and the result is always mouthwatering!”

Once the sauce reaches the perfect consistency and the noodles are tender but not mushy, remove the pan from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley for that final touch of color and freshness.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Even with a simple dish like this, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Don’t worry! Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

1. Why Is My Chicken Dry? How to Keep It Moist

Dry chicken is a common issue, but it’s easy to avoid if you:

• Don’t overcook it: Chicken breasts cook fast, so keep an eye on them.
• Use chicken thighs: They have more fat, which keeps them juicier.
• Let it rest: Before slicing, let the chicken sit for a few minutes to retain juices.

2. Noodles Too Sticky or Mushy? Here’s How to Fix It

Overcooked noodles can ruin the dish. Here’s how to get them just right:

• Use enough broth: Not enough liquid can cause the noodles to clump together.
• Stir occasionally: This keeps them from sticking to each other.
• Cook just until tender: Don’t leave them simmering for too long.

3. The Sauce is Too Watery or Too Thick: Adjusting the Consistency

If your sauce is too thin, try this:

• Let it simmer a little longer to reduce excess liquid.
• Stir in a bit more Parmesan or a spoonful of cream for thickness.

Too thick? Simply add a splash of broth or milk and mix well.

4. Not Enough Flavor? How to Boost the Taste Instantly

If your dish tastes a little bland, try these quick fixes:

• More garlic: You can never go wrong with extra minced garlic.
• A squeeze of lemon juice: Brightens the flavors.
• Red pepper flakes: Adds a little kick.
• Extra Parmesan: Because, let’s be honest, cheese makes everything better.

Variations and Customizations for Different Diets

The best part about this recipe? It’s super flexible! Here are some variations to fit different dietary needs:

1. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Version

Want to skip the noodles? Try this instead:

• Swap egg noodles for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles.
• Use heavy cream and extra butter for added richness.
• Add more cheese for extra indulgence!

2. Dairy-Free Alternative: Making It Without Butter

If you’re avoiding dairy, don’t worry—this dish can still be delicious!

• Use olive oil or dairy-free butter instead of regular butter.
• Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for the heavy cream.

3. Adding More Vegetables for a Healthier Twist

Want to make it even healthier? Add some colorful veggies:

• Spinach or kale: Stir in at the end for added nutrients.
• Mushrooms: Sauté them with the garlic for extra flavor.
• Bell peppers and zucchini: Add these for a crunch.

“Healthy doesn’t have to be boring—just add some vibrant veggies and fresh herbs to your dish!”

Best Side Dishes to Serve with One-Pan Chicken and Buttered Noodles

This dish is already a complete meal, but if you want to make it even more special, try serving it with:

• Simple Roasted Vegetables: A mix of carrots, broccoli, and asparagus adds a nutritious touch.
• Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with lemon dressing balances the richness.
• Homemade Garlic Bread: Because more garlic is always a good idea.

Time-Saving Tips for a Quick and Easy Dinner

Short on time? Here are a few tricks to speed things up:

• Prep ahead: Chop garlic, measure ingredients, and store them in the fridge.
• Use rotisserie chicken: Instead of cooking raw chicken, shred store-bought rotisserie chicken.
• One-Pot vs. One-Pan Cooking: If you don’t have a large skillet, you can cook everything in a deep pot instead.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Without Losing Flavor

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days .
• For best results, reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth or cream.
• If microwaving, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

“Leftovers taste even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make extra!”

FAQ

“A little extra cheese and butter never hurt anyone—go ahead and make it indulgent!”

Final Tips for the Best One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Before we wrap up, here are a few expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every single time.

1. Use a Large Enough Pan

The bigger the pan, the better! A large skillet or wide pan prevents overcrowding and ensures even cooking.

2. Let the Chicken Rest Before Slicing

This helps retain its juices and keeps it from drying out. Letting it rest for just 5 minutes makes a huge difference.

3. Don’t Overcook the Noodles

They should be al dente when you turn off the heat. Remember, they will continue to absorb liquid even after cooking.

4. Taste and Adjust Seasonings at the End

Sometimes, just a pinch of salt, pepper, or an extra dash of Parmesan is all you need to make the dish pop.

Conclusion: Why One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Should Be Your Go-To Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal, this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe should be on your weekly rotation. It’s:

• Simple to make – No complicated steps or fancy equipment needed.
• Perfectly balanced – A mix of creamy, garlicky, and savory flavors.
• Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, change up the protein, or make it dairy-free!
• Minimal cleanup – Because everything is cooked in one pan.

“Life’s too short for boring dinners—this one-pan wonder will quickly become a family favorite!”

So, the next time you need a comforting and satisfying meal, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds (and your dishwashing routine) will thank you!

Try It and Share Your Thoughts!

Now that you have everything you need to make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, it’s time to hit the kitchen! If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments. I’d love to hear your feedback, favorite customizations, and any fun twists you added!

Happy cooking! 🍽️

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

A comforting and easy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken and buttery noodles, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet

Ingredients

  

Chicken and Noodles

• 2 tbsp butter divided
• 1 lb chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
• Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
• In the same pan, add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
• Add the egg noodles, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, then cover and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
• Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and parmesan cheese.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of heavy cream or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Keyword Chicken, Comfort Food, One-Pan