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One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t compromise on convenience. This satisfying dish combines tender chicken, al dente noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce that comes together effortlessly in a single pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal cleanup, making it an instant family favorite that you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.

One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles: A Comforting Weeknight Wonder

In our fast-paced world, finding a meal that combines convenience, comfort, and culinary excellence can feel like searching for a culinary holy grail. Enter the One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles – a dish that masterfully balances the need for efficiency with the desire for a satisfying, home-cooked meal. This recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish while keeping cleanup to a minimum, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

What makes this dish truly special is its ability to build layers of flavor in a single pan. As the chicken cooks, it creates a flavorful foundation that infuses the noodles with savory depth. The addition of cream and butter creates a silky sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, while fresh herbs and garlic add brightness and complexity. The result is a harmonious blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a luxurious sauce that feels indulgent yet comes together with minimal effort.

This recipe also offers excellent versatility, allowing you to adapt it to your pantry’s contents or your family’s preferences. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or sophisticated palates, the basic technique remains foolproof while leaving room for creative variations. The fact that everything comes together in one pan means you can watch the magic happen, adjusting seasonings and consistency to your liking without juggling multiple cooking vessels.

Storage Options

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months, though noodles may soften when thawed
  • Reheat: Warm in microwave with a splash of milk or cream to restore sauce consistency
  • Make-ahead: Prepare chicken in advance, store separately, and combine with fresh noodles when serving

Summary

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Tongs
  • Colander (optional)

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Noodles and Sauce:

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  • 12 oz egg noodles
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken:
    • Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
    • Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat
    • Cook chicken 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through
    • Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil
  2. Start the sauce:
    • In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat
    • Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute
    • Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits
  3. Cook the noodles:
    • Add egg noodles to the pan
    • Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally
    • Add more broth if needed, 1/4 cup at a time
  4. Finish the dish:
    • Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese
    • Add dried thyme and red pepper flakes if using
    • Slice chicken and return to pan
    • Simmer until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes
    • Stir in fresh parsley
  5. Serve:
    • Let rest for 5 minutes to allow sauce to thicken
    • Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired

Notes

  • Use chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking
  • Don’t overcook the noodles – they should be al dente
  • Stir noodles frequently to prevent sticking
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream
  • Add vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition
  • Adjust sauce consistency with additional broth or cream as needed
  • Leftovers will thicken in the refrigerator; thin with milk when reheating
  • For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when making the sauce