One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food—simple, quick, and packed with flavor. Everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The chicken stays juicy and tender, while the noodles are coated in a rich, buttery sauce. It’s the kind of dish that’s both satisfying and comforting, perfect for a busy weeknight or when you’re craving something easy and delicious.
Here’s how to make it:
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water, but broth adds more flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for the noodles)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Once the pan is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, covering it with foil to keep warm.
2. Cook the Noodles:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, add the egg noodles to the broth. Stir occasionally, making sure the noodles are submerged in the liquid.
- Cook the noodles in the broth, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is almost absorbed and the noodles are al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Combine and Finish:
- Once the noodles are cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, reduce the heat to low.
- Add the butter and Parmesan cheese to the pan. Stir until the butter is melted and the noodles are coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and return it to the pan, nestling it into the noodles.
- Stir everything together gently, allowing the chicken to reheat in the sauce and absorb some of the flavors.
4. Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes (if desired) for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Works:
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and cleanup is a breeze!
- Flavorful Chicken: The chicken gets perfectly seasoned and stays juicy, thanks to being cooked in the same pan as the noodles.
- Buttery Noodles: The noodles soak up the chicken broth and then get tossed in a buttery, cheesy sauce, making them super rich and comforting.
Tips & Variations:
- Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or peas toward the end of the noodle cooking time for extra nutrition and flavor.
- For a Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese once the noodles are cooked for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can be added for a burst of freshness and depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- This dish pairs perfectly with a green salad or some steamed vegetables on the side.
- For extra flavor, top with some crushed red pepper for heat or extra grated Parmesan for that cheesy finish.
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the kind of meal that makes life easier without compromising on flavor. The tender chicken and buttery noodles come together in a cozy, comforting dish that’s sure to be a family favorite. Enjoy!