One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles: A Comfort Food Classic

There’s something magical about a meal that comes together in just one pan. It’s simple, delicious, and cleanup is a breeze. If you’re craving comfort food with minimal effort, this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chicken, creamy buttered noodles, and a hint of Parmesan make this dish a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pan wonder has it all—juicy chicken, rich and creamy noodles, and a recipe so easy you’ll have it memorized in no time. It’s a wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, and the best part is how little cleanup it requires. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Ingredients for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Here’s everything you’ll need for this delicious meal:

Ingredient	Amount
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	4
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Chicken broth	2 cups
Heavy cream	1 cup
Egg noodles	8 oz
Butter	3 tbsp
Parmesan cheese (grated)	¼ cup
Salt and pepper	To taste
Fresh parsley (optional)	Chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

2. Prepare the Noodles

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the egg noodles.
4. Cover the skillet and let the noodles cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and have absorbed the creamy broth.

3. Combine and Finish

1. Stir the butter and grated Parmesan cheese into the noodles, letting them melt and create a creamy, luscious sauce.
2. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the noodles. Let the chicken heat through for 2–3 minutes.

4. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, one-pan meal with your loved ones.

Tips for Perfect One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

Fresh chicken, good-quality Parmesan, and real heavy cream make a world of difference in this dish’s flavor.

2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

To keep the chicken tender and juicy, cook it just until it reaches 165°F. Overcooking can make it dry.

3. Stir the Noodles Frequently

Stirring ensures the noodles cook evenly and prevents them from sticking to the pan.

4. Customize the Flavors

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or toss in spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (serves 4):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520
Protein	38g
Fat	28g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	750mg

Creative Variations

1. Garlic-Lemon Twist

Add a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of lemon zest to the sauce for a bright, tangy flavor.

2. Mushroom and Spinach

Sauté sliced mushrooms and fresh spinach with the garlic before adding the broth and cream for a veggie-packed version.

3. Spicy Chicken Noodles

Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

4. Gluten-Free Option

Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or zoodles for a lighter alternative.

5. Extra Cheesy

Double the Parmesan or mix in shredded mozzarella for an even creamier dish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles with these sides for a complete meal:

• Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a simple side salad.
• Bread: A slice of garlic bread or a warm dinner roll makes a great accompaniment.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

1. Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Freezing

You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months, but note that the noodles may lose some of their texture when reheated.

3. Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can use fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you have on hand.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Cook the noodles just before serving.

3. How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter and Parmesan.

4. What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute Pecorino Romano or even grated cheddar for a different flavor.

5. How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the pan?

Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken and avoid moving it too much while it cooks.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or peas make great additions.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy noodles, and simple yet bold flavors. It’s a recipe you can whip up on a busy night or savor with your family during the weekend. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table.

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