One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles: A Quick and Comforting Dinner for Busy Nights

When life gets hectic, you need dinners that are quick, easy, and delicious. This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe delivers all that and more. With tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered in a creamy garlic sauce and served over buttery egg noodles, it’s a comforting meal the whole family will love. Using just one pan saves time on cooking and cleaning, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. This dish combines simplicity, flavor, and elegance, making it an ideal choice whether you’re feeding picky kids or impressing dinner guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this one-pan meal, you will need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and mild flavor)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients work together to create a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Drying the chicken ensures a nice sear, while seasoning enhances flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. The goal is to create a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits from the chicken, which adds depth of flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the creamy sauce, ensuring they are submerged. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed some of the sauce.

Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the noodles and spoon some sauce over them. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Add Butter and Finish

Stir in the butter until melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating a silky, rich texture. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles for added depth, if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley for color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken and noodles hot, straight from the pan. This one-pan meal pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Tips for the Perfect One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

1. Even-sized chicken breasts: Use similar-sized chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly. Pound thicker pieces slightly if needed.
2. Don’t overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Remove from heat as soon as they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Stir gently: When cooking the noodles in the creamy sauce, stir occasionally but gently to prevent them from breaking apart.
4. Enhance flavor: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the broth for an extra layer of richness.
5. Cream variations: You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you want a lighter version, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Variations to Try

• Mushroom Chicken Noodles: Add sliced mushrooms when sautéing garlic for an earthy flavor.
• Lemon Garlic Twist: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy note.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a mild kick.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar along with the Parmesan for a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with thyme, rosemary, or basil to give the dish a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it balances flavors, textures, and convenience. Searing the chicken adds a golden crust and rich flavor, while the creamy garlic sauce ensures every bite is indulgent and satisfying. Cooking the noodles directly in the sauce allows them to absorb maximum flavor, creating a one-pan meal that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for special occasions.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be partially prepped ahead of time. Slice the garlic and measure out the noodles and broth in advance to save time. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Health Benefits of This Dish

Chicken breasts provide lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Using garlic adds antioxidants and supports the immune system, while fresh parsley offers vitamins A, C, and K. Although the dish includes butter and heavy cream, portion control ensures a satisfying yet balanced meal. For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce butter slightly.

Conclusion

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate combination of ease, flavor, and comfort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, creamy noodles, and a garlic-infused buttery sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and experience the convenience and deliciousness of a one-pan dinner that feels indulgent and satisfying.