One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Looking for a cozy, family-friendly dinner that’s quick to make and doesn’t leave you with a pile of dishes? This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is exactly what you need. Juicy golden chicken breasts, tender egg noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce come together in a single skillet for the ultimate comfort food meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty yet simple, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort and cleanup. With pantry-friendly ingredients and a straightforward method, you’ll have dinner on the table in less than 40 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• One-Pot Magic: No juggling multiple pots and pans—everything cooks in one skillet.
• Family Approved: Creamy noodles + juicy chicken = guaranteed dinner winner.
• Quick & Easy: Dinner ready in under 40 minutes with minimal prep.
• Customizable: Swap noodles, adjust seasoning, or add veggies to make it your own.
• Comfort Food Classic: A satisfying balance of protein, carbs, and creamy sauce.

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Chicken breasts: Lean protein that turns golden and tender when pan-seared.
• Olive oil: Helps achieve that golden sear on the chicken.
• Garlic: Adds a delicious aromatic base to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Deepens flavor and keeps noodles moist while cooking.
• Heavy cream: Creates a rich, velvety sauce for the noodles.
• Egg noodles: Soft, chewy, and perfect for soaking up creamy sauces.
• Butter: Melts into the sauce, making it silky smooth and flavorful.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy depth to the noodles.
• Salt & pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley: Optional garnish that adds freshness and color.

Tips and Tricks for Success:

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook chicken in batches if needed for the best golden crust.
• Season generously: Salt and pepper help bring out the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives the sauce a creamier consistency.
• Adjust sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. Too thin? Simmer uncovered until reduced.
• Let the chicken rest: After searing, let it rest briefly to lock in juices before slicing.

Variations and Customizations:

• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, mushrooms, or broccoli for a nutrient boost.
• Try Different Proteins: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs, turkey cutlets, or even shrimp.
• Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning for a little heat.
• Herby Twist: Use fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for an herbed cream sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Swap Parmesan for Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a touch of cream cheese.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp side salad balances the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts pair beautifully.
• White Wine: A chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy noodles.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not ideal, as creamy sauces can separate, but you can freeze chicken separately for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce.

Popular Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, but the sauce will be lighter and less rich. Add a touch of cream cheese if you want extra creaminess.

1: Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely—just use gluten-free egg noodles or pasta.

2: Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken in advance and store in the fridge. When ready, make the noodles and sauce, then add the pre-cooked chicken at the end to warm through.

3: What if I only have bone-in chicken?
You can use it, but adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked before removing from the pan.

4: Can I double the recipe?
Yes—use a large skillet or Dutch oven to prevent overcrowding. Perfect for feeding a big family or meal prepping.