If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that’s both fuss-free and full of flavor, this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender chicken bites cooked just right, nestled in a creamy pool of butter-kissed egg noodles, all coming together in one skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. This dish is a perfect weeknight winner, blending simplicity and savory goodness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is straightforward yet essential, working together to create that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each element brings its own magic to the dish, making it both approachable and irresistible.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Using bite-sized pieces ensures quick cooking and a tender, juicy bite every time.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: This gives the chicken a beautiful sear and keeps it from sticking to the pan.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth that enhances the chicken without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Provides a gentle smoky sweetness and a touch of color to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Classic seasonings that elevate every component.
- 3 cups chicken broth: A flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the noodles with richness and keeps everything moist.
- 2 cups egg noodles: The star noodle of comfort food, perfectly tender and ready to soak up all the buttery goodness.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds luxurious creaminess and carries the garlic flavor beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic creates the aromatic heart of the dish, fragrant and irresistible.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A nutty, salty finish that melts delightfully over the noodles and chicken.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note that lifts the whole meal.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the pan warms, season your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken and cook it undisturbed for about 6 to 8 minutes until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step locks in flavor and texture. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside, so it doesn’t overcook.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Using the same skillet, bring the chicken broth up to a gentle boil. This flavorful broth is key to infusing the egg noodles with rich savory notes. Stir in the egg noodles, then reduce the heat to medium and cover the pan. Allow the noodles to cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This method cooks the noodles perfectly without extra pots or water.
Step 3: Add Butter and Garlic
Once the noodles are cooked, lower the heat and stir in the butter and minced garlic. The butter melts into the noodles, coating them with a luscious silkiness, while the garlic gently cooks until fragrant, releasing a delicious aroma that fills the kitchen. This step is where the dish develops its signature buttery garlic flavor.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, folding it gently into the buttery noodles so every bite melds tender chicken and creamy noodles beautifully. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top for a finishing touch that adds depth and freshness. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley doesn’t just add a vibrant green pop— it brightens the dish with a light herbal note that contrasts the richness perfectly. Grated Parmesan cheese offers a salty, nutty burst that melts beautifully over the warm noodles, making every bite feel indulgent yet comforting.
Side Dishes
This one-pan wonder shines all on its own, but if you want to add some green, simple steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans complement the richness effortlessly. A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also works well to balance the creamy noodles and savory chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style straight from the skillet for a cozy, communal vibe that invites conversation and sharing. For a more elegant presentation, plate the noodles with the chicken arranged artfully on top, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley. Adding a lemon wedge on the side offers a fresh squeeze of brightness just before eating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles stored in an airtight container can keep nicely in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, making your next meal equally satisfying.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the dish completely and transfer into a freezer-safe container. Keep it frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor preservation.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the noodles seem dry. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring to warm evenly and keep the noodles moist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe. Just be mindful that breasts can cook a bit faster and might dry out if overcooked, so watch the timing closely.
What type of noodles is best for this dish?
Egg noodles are ideal for their tender texture and ability to soak up the buttery garlic sauce beautifully. However, you can substitute with other short pasta shapes if needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply swap the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or a plant-based margarine, and omit or replace Parmesan cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Is it possible to add vegetables into the one-pan dish?
Definitely! Adding quick-cooking veggies like spinach or peas toward the end of cooking is a great way to sneak in some greens without sacrificing the simplicity of the recipe.
How can I make the dish more flavorful?
Enhance the flavor by using homemade or high-quality chicken broth and consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic boost.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe truly feels like a warm hug on a plate — comforting, easy, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or simply craving something homey and satisfying, this dish delivers every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your dinner rotation!
Print
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious and easy one-pan chicken with buttered noodles recipe that combines tender, seasoned chicken thighs or breasts with savory egg noodles cooked in chicken broth, finished with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese for a comforting meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Noodles & Sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the cut chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the noodles: In the same skillet, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the egg noodles, then reduce heat to medium. Cover the skillet and let the noodles cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add garlic butter: Lower the heat and stir in the butter and minced garlic. Cook while stirring until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring the butter melts and blends well with the noodles.
- Combine chicken and noodles: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir gently to combine with the noodles and garlic butter sauce.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve warm for a comforting and satisfying one-pan meal.
Notes
- You can use either chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference; thighs tend to be juicier.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute chicken broth with homemade or low-sodium broth.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors.
