One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe

Cozy One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe

Comfort meets convenience in this mouthwatering one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles that promises a delightful meal without endless dishes.

Tender chicken nestled alongside silky noodles, all cooked effortlessly in a single skillet.

The magic happens quickly, blending rich flavors that dance across your palate with surprising simplicity.

Weeknight cooking just got a serious upgrade with this streamlined recipe that keeps both prep and cleanup minimal.

Minimal effort translates to maximum satisfaction when you serve this crowd-pleasing dish.

Hungry diners will appreciate how seamlessly everything comes together, creating a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this comforting, no-fuss culinary creation.

Why One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles Works So Well

  • Savor One-Pan Convenience: Minimize cleanup with this streamlined recipe that cooks chicken and creamy noodles in a single skillet, saving time and reducing dish washing.
  • Enjoy Rich, Comforting Flavors: The combination of seared chicken, buttery egg noodles, and creamy Parmesan sauce creates a deeply satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
  • Elevate Weeknight Cooking: Transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families seeking a delicious and hassle-free dinner solution.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adding different herbs, changing protein types, or adjusting spice levels to suit personal taste preferences and dietary needs.

What You’ll Need For One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles

Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: Lean protein that becomes juicy and golden when seared, best when fresh and at room temperature before cooking.
  • Egg Noodles: Classic pasta that absorbs creamy sauce and provides hearty texture, wider noodles work best for this dish.
Seasonings:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that balance and highlight other ingredients.
  • Garlic Powder, Paprika: Warm spices that add depth and complexity to chicken's exterior.
Dairy and Liquids:
  • Butter, Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Rich components that create a luxurious, velvety sauce with deep, comforting flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Helps prevent sticking and adds subtle background flavor during chicken searing.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and additional savory notes to noodle cooking process.
Herbs and Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh herb that adds color and light, clean flavor to finished dish.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spice element for those who enjoy a subtle kick.

How To Cook One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Create Buttery Noodle Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Quickly saute until the garlic becomes fragrant and releases its aroma. Then add the ingredients:
  • Egg noodles
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes

Stir all ingredients together to combine evenly.

Step 3: Simmer and Develop Flavors

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The noodles will become tender and the sauce will thicken beautifully.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Chicken

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the noodles and stir until it melts completely, creating a rich and creamy texture. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the creamy noodles.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top the dish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Helpful Cooking Tips For One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles

  • Perfectly Sear Chicken: Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in juicy flavors.
  • Creamy Sauce Hack: Use room temperature heavy cream to prevent sauce from breaking and create a smooth, velvety texture.
  • Customize Noodle Options: Swap egg noodles with gluten-free alternatives like zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta for dietary preferences.
  • Boost Flavor Power: Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or oregano to elevate the dish's overall taste profile.
  • Quick Meal Prep: Prepare chicken and chop garnishes in advance to reduce cooking time and make weeknight dinners a breeze.

How To Store One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles

  • Refrigerate: Transfer the chicken and noodles to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Cool Down: Let the dish completely cool to room temperature before sealing the container to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Reheat Gently: Warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
  • Microwave Option: If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly and maintain the creamy sauce's texture.

Tasty Pairings For One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles

  • Elevate Creamy Comfort: Pair this hearty one-pan chicken dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc that cuts through the richness and complements the creamy noodles' texture.
  • Refresh with Brightness: Add a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the dish's creamy and savory elements, providing a zesty contrast.
  • Herbal Harmony: Sprinkle fresh chopped chives or thyme over the chicken to enhance the garlic and butter notes, adding an aromatic layer to the meal.
  • Rustic Sidekick: Serve with roasted asparagus or green beans tossed in garlic butter to echo the dish's comforting flavors and add a nutritious green element.

Fun Twists On One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles

  • Spicy Southwestern Remix: Replace paprika with chili powder and add cumin. Swap Parmesan for pepper jack cheese. Incorporate black beans and corn into the noodle mixture for a zesty southwestern-inspired meal.
  • Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Season chicken with oregano and thyme. Use feta cheese instead of Parmesan. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach to the noodles for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Creamy Mushroom Enhancement: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic before adding noodles. Incorporate dried porcini powder into the chicken seasoning. Replace half the chicken broth with white wine for deeper umami notes.
  • Asian-Inspired Sesame Variation: Substitute olive oil with sesame oil. Season chicken with ginger and five-spice powder. Add soy sauce and sesame seeds to the noodle mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions for extra freshness.

FAQs On One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles

  • What makes this one-pan chicken recipe special?

This recipe combines perfectly seasoned chicken with creamy, buttery noodles all cooked in a single skillet, making it a delicious and convenient meal with minimal cleanup.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?

You can substitute egg noodles with other pasta like fettuccine or linguine, but the cooking time and liquid ratios might need slight adjustments.

  • Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The chicken and noodles reheat well, making it great for preparing ahead of time. Just store the chicken and noodles separately in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain the creamy sauce’s texture.

  • How can I make this dish more budget-friendly?

Use less expensive chicken cuts like chicken thighs, which are often more affordable and just as flavorful. You can also replace some heavy cream with milk to reduce costs while keeping the sauce creamy.

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One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe

One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe


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4.7 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Comforting one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles brings classic home cooking to life with minimal cleanup. Rich flavors and tender chicken make this meal a delightful solution for busy weeknight dinners, promising satisfaction in every single bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) egg noodles
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken by generously coating it with a blend of aromatic seasonings, ensuring each piece is thoroughly seasoned and ready for searing.
  2. Heat a large skillet and introduce a touch of olive oil or butter, creating a sizzling surface for the chicken. Carefully place the seasoned pieces into the hot pan, allowing them to develop a golden-brown exterior while cooking thoroughly until reaching the perfect internal temperature.
  3. Once the chicken is cooked and removed, transform the same skillet into a canvas for creating luxurious noodles by melting butter and releasing the fragrant essence of garlic.
  4. Introduce egg noodles to the buttery garlic base, then cascade chicken broth, velvety heavy cream, and a gentle sprinkle of seasonings. Gently combine all elements, creating a harmonious mixture.
  5. Reduce the heat and let the ingredients meld together, covering the skillet to allow the noodles to absorb the rich, creamy liquid. Periodically stir to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
  6. As the noodles approach tenderness and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency, incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a smooth, creamy texture.
  7. Return the perfectly cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling the slices among the creamy noodles to reheat and integrate flavors.
  8. Finish the dish with a flourish of fresh parsley and an optional dusting of additional Parmesan, creating a visually appealing and aromatic meal ready to be served warm and inviting.

Notes

  • Choose bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness, ensuring a tender and succulent main protein.
  • Swap egg noodles with gluten-free alternatives like zucchini noodles or rice noodles for dietary restrictions.
  • Use reduced-fat cream and less cheese to create a lighter version without compromising taste and texture.
  • Toast garlic briefly to enhance its nutty depth and prevent burning, which can make the sauce bitter.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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