One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dinner that doesn’t pile on the cleanup, this Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, flavorful chicken with silky buttered noodles all cooked together in a single pan, making busy weeknights feel effortless without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re feeding your family or simply want an uncomplicated, delicious meal, this recipe hits every spot with its comforting flavors and quick prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Cuts down cooking time and cleanup, making dinner hassle-free.
• Rich, buttery flavors: The buttered noodles blend perfectly with seasoned chicken for a comforting dish.
• Flexible ingredients: Easily adaptable for various diets and ingredient swaps.
• Family-friendly: Mild, crowd-pleasing flavors that both kids and adults enjoy.
• Perfect for busy nights: Ready in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and pleasing textures. Each element works together, from perfectly cooked chicken to silky noodles and a burst of fresh herbs.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Use boneless, skinless pieces for quick, even cooking and tender results.
• Egg noodles: Their wide, flat shape soaks up buttery sauce perfectly.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps create that irresistible silky coating on the noodles.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic flair and depth to every bite.
• Chicken broth or stock: Keeps the noodles moist and infuses the dish with savory flavor.
• Fresh parsley: Offers fresh, vibrant notes as a finishing touch.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and noodles perfectly.

Variations for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! It’s wonderfully adaptable, so you can customize it to fit your pantry ingredients, dietary preferences, or just to keep things exciting.

• Vegetable boost: Add finely chopped spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for some heat.
• Herb swap: Try thyme, rosemary, or dill instead of parsley to change the flavor profile.
• Protein alternatives: Substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for variety.
• Cheesy touch: Stir in Parmesan or mozzarella toward the end for creamier noodles.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the garlic

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add a bit more butter. Toss in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to release its fragrance, careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Add broth and noodles

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in the egg noodles, spreading them evenly in the pan to submerge in the liquid. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it among the noodles.

Step 4: Cook everything together

Cover the pan and simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 12-15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and most of the broth has absorbed.

Step 5: Finish with butter and herbs

Once the noodles are cooked and creamy, remove the lid, add a generous pat of butter, and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Stir gently to coat everything in butter and herbs.

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Use room temperature chicken: Helps the chicken cook more evenly and prevents dryness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the chicken space when searing to ensure a golden crust.
• Keep noodles submerged: Ensure noodles are mostly under the broth for even cooking.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling rapidly to prevent noodles from becoming mushy.
• Adjust seasoning later: Taste the sauce near the end and add salt or pepper if needed.

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

Top your finished dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. A little grated Parmesan cheese also pairs wonderfully for an extra pop of flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve this meal with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to add freshness and balance. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the buttery noodles nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner, serve it straight from the skillet in the middle of the table. For something a bit fancier, plate individually and add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a light sprinkle of chili flakes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the meal cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, flavorful and easy to enjoy as next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Note that noodles may change texture slightly, so thaw gently in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, stirring gently until warmed through. Microwaving works as well but can dry out the chicken if overheated.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Yes! While egg noodles are traditional here, you can substitute with wide pasta like pappardelle or even smaller pasta shapes, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap butter for olive oil or a dairy-free margarine, and use chicken broth that’s free of dairy. You’ll still get plenty of flavor without the butter.

Can I cook this recipe in advance for meal prep?

Yes, it makes a great meal prep dish. Just store it properly and reheat with a little extra broth or sauce to keep it moist and delicious.

What side dishes go best with One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles?

Light salads, steamed vegetables, or roasted root veggies all complement the rich noodles wonderfully without overpowering the dish.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add ingredients like crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or a spicy hot sauce on the side to kick up the heat to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is a go-to for anyone looking for comfort food that’s both fast and flavorful. With minimal effort, you create a warm, inviting meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Don’t wait for a special occasion — try it tonight and see how easy and satisfying dinner can be.

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