If you’re craving a comforting yet effortless meal, this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect harmony of tender, juicy chicken and velvety buttered noodles all cooked in one skillet, making cleanup just as satisfying as the meal itself. The golden sear on the chicken paired with the rich, buttery noodles creates a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With simple ingredients that come together in under 30 minutes, this recipe is both a time-saver and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but powerful—they each bring something essential to the dish, whether it’s flavor, texture, or richness. Together, they create a balanced and inviting meal that everyone will love.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced): Choose fresh chicken breasts to ensure juicy, tender meat after cooking.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: This helps to get that perfect golden sear on the chicken and brings out a subtle fruity flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic punch that’s easy to incorporate without fresh garlic fuss.
- Salt & black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of both the chicken and noodles.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Using broth instead of water infuses the noodles with rich flavor as they cook.
- 8 oz egg noodles: Their tender, silky texture perfectly absorbs the buttery sauce surrounding them.
- 3 tbsp butter: The star ingredient for that velvety, luxurious mouthfeel and a hint of sweetness.
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a sharp, salty note that elevates the noodles with every bite.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A sprinkle of green freshness to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Perfection
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, perfect for achieving that beautiful golden crust on your chicken. Season the sliced chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful base. Cook each side for 7 to 8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and boasts a crispy-looking exterior. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm, letting it rest so the juices settle.
Step 2: Simmer the Noodles in Chicken Broth
In the same pan, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This savory liquid is the secret to making your noodles extra flavorful as they cook. Stir in the egg noodles, spreading them evenly in the skillet. Allow them to cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or according to package instructions, until tender and perfectly al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, soaking up all the delicious broth.
Step 3: Add Butter and Return Chicken
Once the noodles are tender, reduce the heat and stir in the butter until it melts into a silky sauce that coats every strand of noodle. Then, slice the rested chicken breasts and nestle them right back into the pan, letting them warm through as they mingle with the buttery noodles. This combination is what truly sets this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe apart, marrying savory chicken with rich noodles in one skillet.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the optional Parmesan cheese over the top for that extra cheesy, salty finish. Then, add a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley—it adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of fresh, herbal brightness. Serve this dish warm straight from the pan and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple, classic choice that adds visual appeal and a subtle herbal note that balances the richness of the butter and chicken. A light dusting of Parmesan cheese adds sharpness and depth, but for a twist, try a sprinkle of lemon zest or red pepper flakes for a hint of brightness or heat.
Side Dishes
While this dish is a complete meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or green beans. These lighter sides provide a natural contrast and brighten the overall meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic look, serve everything straight from the skillet to the table, embracing a warm, communal feel. Alternatively, plate the chicken slices atop a nest of buttered noodles and garnish with herbs and cheese for an elegant presentation perfect for dinner guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, providing a quick, comforting meal whenever you need it.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if stored properly. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label your containers so you can easily find your delicious One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe at a later date.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low to medium heat to preserve moisture and texture. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the noodles look dry. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover the dish and heat in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs provide a bit more fat and flavor, and they stay juicy even if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs can take a little longer to cook through.
Is it necessary to use chicken broth for the noodles?
Using chicken broth really boosts the flavor of the noodles, but if you don’t have it on hand, water will work. Consider adding a bouillon cube or seasoning to compensate for the flavor difference.
Can I use fresh pasta for the noodles?
Fresh egg noodles can be used, but they cook much faster than dried ones. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking and adjust the liquid amount since fresh pasta absorbs less broth.
Is Parmesan cheese mandatory?
Parmesan is optional but highly recommended for adding a salty, umami kick. If you’re dairy-free or avoiding cheese, you can skip it or sprinkle some nutritional yeast or fresh herbs instead.
How can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
To veganize this dish, swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace butter with plant-based margarine and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that checks all the boxes—quick, easy, comforting, and downright delicious—you really can’t go wrong with the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners when you want something that feels homemade but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do!
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One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and delicious one-pan chicken recipe served over buttered egg noodles, combining tender seasoned chicken with savory broth and a touch of Parmesan for a comforting meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Noodles & Sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 3 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 7-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove Chicken: Take the cooked chicken out of the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the Noodles: In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the egg noodles to the broth and cook for 6-8 minutes, or according to package instructions, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed some of the broth.
- Add Butter and Combine: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the butter until melted and well incorporated into the noodles and broth, creating a creamy sauce.
- Return Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken if needed, then add it back to the skillet with the noodles, mixing gently to combine and reheat the chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top if desired, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your one-pan chicken with buttered noodles.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the broth while cooking the noodles.
- Use fresh parsley for garnish to add a bright, herbaceous note to the dish.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory touch; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
