If you are craving a comforting and flavorful dinner that requires minimal cleanup, this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts perfectly seared and nestled atop luscious egg noodles bathed in a rich, buttery cream sauce with just the right touch of garlic and Parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas and delivers satisfying, homestyle flavor in every bite. This dish combines simplicity and indulgence beautifully, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in bringing layers of taste and texture to life. From the protein-packed chicken breasts to the creamy, dreamy sauce enriched with butter and Parmesan, every component is essential to creating that perfect harmony you’ll want again and again.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing tender and juicy protein that soaks up all the flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chicken to a gorgeously golden brown crust that locks in moisture.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds an aromatic punch that awakens the palate with every bite.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base for the creamy sauce and cooks the noodles tenderly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Brings the sauce its rich, velvety texture that coats the noodles and chicken perfectly.
- 8 oz egg noodles: The comforting carb that soaks up the luscious sauce and delivers a satisfying chew.
- 3 tbsp butter: Adds depth and silkiness, making the sauce gloriously smooth.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the overall dish wonderfully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and bring out the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish): A bright, fresh finish that adds color and a subtle herbal note.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat — this helps create that beautiful, flavorful crust on the chicken. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is well-seasoned. Sear the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside; this resting period lets the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
In the very same skillet, add your minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant — this quick step releases incredible aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, creating the luscious sauce base. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the egg noodles. Cover your skillet and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, until the noodles are perfectly tender and have absorbed that creamy goodness.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Now for the indulgent finishing touch: stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Watch as they melt into the sauce, bringing it to a silky, creamy perfection that clings to every noodle. Return your cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them back into the sauce to warm through, allowing the flavors to mingle and marry.
Step 4: Serve Your Masterpiece
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and subtle freshness. Serve the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe hot for maximum comfort and flavor — it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds not just appealing color but also a slight herbal brightness that balances the rich cream sauce beautifully. You might also consider a little extra Parmesan on top for an added cheesy, savory note that makes each bite even more decadent.
Side Dishes
Although this recipe is a satisfying meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli can add freshness and crunch. A light vinaigrette can serve as a nice contrast to the creamy chicken and noodles, rounding out your meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make this comforting dish feel special. Serve it family-style straight from the skillet to keep the cozy vibe, or plate individual servings with a delicate parsley sprig on top. For a twist, try incorporating sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes into the noodles for added color and texture that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the dish cold quickly after serving helps maintain its freshness and prevents the creamy sauce from breaking down.
Freezing
While the noodles and cream sauce may change texture slightly after freezing, you can still freeze the dish if needed. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency and prevent it from drying out. Avoid using high heat to keep the chicken tender and the noodles from becoming mushy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer darker meat with a bit more fat and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through than breasts.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk works well, offering a slightly different but delicious flavor profile.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta, rice noodles, or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles to keep it gluten-free without compromising on taste.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be firm to the touch and juices should run clear when pierced.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep the chicken and sauce components ahead of time, then combine and finish the dish just before serving. This helps save time while keeping each element fresh and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the effortless delight of the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe — it brings together comforting flavors, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup in a way that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for family weeknight dinners or entertaining friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a regular in your kitchen rotation!
Print
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and easy one-pan meal featuring juicy seared chicken breasts served over creamy buttered egg noodles infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a rich chicken broth and cream sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients for a hearty and satisfying dish with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Butter Noodles
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for 5-6 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook the Noodles: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the egg noodles, cover the skillet, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed some of the liquid.
- Combine & Finish: Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese into the noodle mixture until the sauce is melted and creamy. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the noodles, and let them warm through for a couple of minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve the chicken with the buttered noodles warm.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- For a dairy-free option, replace butter and cream with olive oil and chicken broth, though it will change the flavor profile.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
