There’s nothing better than a quick, satisfying, and delicious one-pan meal after a long day. This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is everything you need for a cozy dinner. Juicy, seasoned chicken is cooked until golden brown, then paired with soft, buttery noodles that absorb all the flavors of the dish. The best part? It all comes together in just one pan, meaning fewer dishes and less cleanup.
If you love simple yet flavorful meals, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor without being overly heavy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ One-Pan Cooking – No extra pots or pans needed!
✔ 30-Minute Meal – Perfect for busy weeknights.
✔ Rich, Buttery Flavor – Every bite is creamy and satisfying.
✔ Customizable – Add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust spices to your liking.
✔ Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike love the combination of chicken and pasta.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Buttered Noodles:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 8 ounces egg noodles (or pasta of your choice)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier texture)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder on both sides. This seasoning mix enhances the flavor of the chicken while keeping it juicy.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. If your chicken breasts are thick, you may need to cook them for a bit longer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
- In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and water, then bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the egg noodles, stir, and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Finish the Dish
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream (if using) and Parmesan cheese. The cream makes the sauce extra rich, while the Parmesan adds a deep umami flavor.
- Slice the cooked chicken and place it back in the pan. Let everything warm together for 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, then serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with:
🥗 A Fresh Salad – A Caesar salad or simple garden salad balances out the richness.
🥖 Garlic Bread – More buttery goodness never hurts!
🍷 A Glass of White Wine – A light Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy flavors.
Cooking Tips & Variations
Make It Extra Flavorful:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the dish.
Want More Protein?
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
- Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or sausage.
Make It Creamier:
- Use half-and-half or cream cheese instead of heavy cream.
Low-Carb Version:
- Replace the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Pasta?
Yes! While egg noodles work great, you can substitute with fettuccine, penne, or bowtie pasta. Just adjust the liquid ratio as needed.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes would be excellent additions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze without the cream for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate quick and easy comfort food. With tender, flavorful chicken and rich, buttery noodles, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet delicious enough to serve to guests. Plus, with minimal cleanup, it’s a stress-free meal that you’ll want to make over and over again.
👉 Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
