If you’re looking for dinner magic that comes together in just one skillet, you absolutely have to try One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. This comforting dish brings tender, juicy chicken and the nostalgic richness of buttered egg noodles into a single pan, infusing every bite with herby, garlicky flavors and just a touch of cheesy decadence. It’s the kind of real-life weeknight hero that satisfies everyone around the table, cuts down on cleanup, and fills your home with the irresistible aroma of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The real beauty of One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is in its simplicity: every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen for its role in layering flavor, from the golden chicken to the plush noodles and that dreamy buttery finish. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already!
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (1 pound): The heart of the dish—choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for a leaner option.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For browning the chicken perfectly and unlocking flavors from the seasonings.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, savory foundation without any peeling or chopping required.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle sweetness and depth that blends seamlessly with the chicken.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Lends earthy herbal notes that brighten up both chicken and noodles.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): A pinch of smokiness and color wakes up the whole pan.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: These essentials pull all the flavors together—don’t skimp!
- Butter (2 tablespoons): The star of the noodles, giving them that signature lusciousness.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (3 cups): Infuses both chicken and noodles with savory richness as they cook.
- Egg noodles (8 ounces): Their tender, curly texture is classic comfort food—perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup): Adds a salty, creamy finish that ties everything together.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): For a pop of color and freshness right at the end.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. This quick rub infuses the meat with layers of flavor before it even hits the skillet, ensuring that every bite of chicken in your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is tasty all the way through. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—the noodles will soak up some of that deliciousness too!
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add your seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate; you’ll return it to the pan soon.
Step 3: Make the Noodles
Keep all those flavorful browned bits in the pan—they’re pure gold! Add the butter and let it melt, swirling to coat the bottom. Pour in your chicken broth and crank up the heat until it boils. Stir in the egg noodles and let them simmer uncovered for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring now and then, until perfectly tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. The noodles will absorb all the chickeny, buttery flavor as they cook.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir gently. The warmth from the noodles will mingle with the chicken, making every mouthful of your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles a satisfying, cohesive delight. Scatter in the grated Parmesan and stir until it melts into the sauce, making everything just a little bit creamy and cheesy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle everything with a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve straight from the skillet while it’s still warm, letting everyone dig in and savor the comforting aroma and taste.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Garnishes
A final flourish of chopped parsley brings a lovely freshness and color contrast, but you can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a twist of cracked black pepper for just that little bit more. If you’re feeling fancy, a few ribbons of lemon zest will brighten the whole dish.
Side Dishes
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is truly a complete meal, but it pairs effortlessly with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or simple steamed green beans. If you love bread as much as I do, a warm slice of crusty sourdough to mop up the buttery sauce is pure bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this right from the skillet for that rustic, cozy vibe, or transfer to a pretty serving dish and top with a few extra herbs for a more dressed-up table. For family-style dinners, let guests help themselves, or portion into individual bowls and top each with a Parm “cloud” and a sprig of parsley. Either way, One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is equal parts comfort and celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles store beautifully! Let the dish cool completely, then pack individual portions into airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making lunch or a quick dinner so easy.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers if needed—just spoon them into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to two months. When reheating, the noodles may soak up extra sauce, so add a splash of broth or water to loosen everything up as needed.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave individual portions with a tablespoon or two of extra broth, or warm gently in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until everything is hot and creamy again. Don’t forget to top with a little fresh parsley to revive the flavors!
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! For even faster One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, stir in shredded rotisserie chicken just before you add the Parmesan. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers and still get all that great flavor.
What kind of noodles work best?
Egg noodles are the classic choice for their tender bite and ability to soak up buttery sauce, but you could swap in other short pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli in a pinch. Adjust simmering time as needed since different pastas absorb liquid differently.
Can I add vegetables to make it a complete meal?
Absolutely! Peas, baby spinach, or mushrooms are all excellent additions. Just stir them in with the noodles or during the final step, and you’ll have a true one-pan wonder loaded with extra goodness.
How can I make this dairy-free?
To make dairy-free One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, use a vegan butter alternative and skip or replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese option. You’ll still get the luscious, creamy texture without the dairy.
Can I make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish earlier in the day, store it covered in the fridge, and reheat just before serving. Add a bit of extra broth while reheating to keep everything creamy, and top with fresh parsley right before serving for that just-cooked feel.
Final Thoughts
I can’t urge you enough—give One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles a try the next time you want a satisfying, stress-free meal. It’s a weeknight staple with a hug-you-from-the-inside flavor, easy cleanup, and universal appeal. Your family (and future self) will thank you for finding a new favorite that delivers every single time.
Print
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This one-pan chicken with buttered noodles recipe is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Tender chicken pieces are seasoned and cooked until golden brown, then combined with egg noodles in a creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Buttered Noodles:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare Noodles: In the same pan, melt butter, add chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Stir in egg noodles and cook for 7 to 9 minutes until tender. Return cooked chicken to the pan, add Parmesan cheese, and stir until creamy.
- Finish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For added richness, consider stirring in heavy cream or sour cream at the end.
- You can customize by adding peas, spinach, or mushrooms for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
