One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is a comforting, easy-to-make meal featuring tender, juicy chicken cooked in a rich, buttery, and creamy sauce with perfectly seasoned noodles. This dish is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, homemade meal with minimal cleanup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan meal means fewer dishes and easy cleanup
- Creamy, buttery, and full of flavor
- Perfect for busy nights—ready in under 30 minutes
- Customizable with different seasonings or vegetables
- Kid-friendly and loved by the whole family
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Olive oil
- Butter
For the Creamy Buttered Noodles:
- Egg noodles
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Garlic (minced)
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- More butter (because butter makes everything better!)
Directions
- Season the Chicken: Pat dry the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: In the same pan, add minced garlic and another tablespoon of butter. Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add egg noodles and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Make It Creamy: Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and let it thicken slightly.
- Bring It All Together: Slice or leave the chicken whole, then add it back to the pan. Let it warm up for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Garlic Herb Buttered Noodles: Add Italian seasoning or fresh thyme for extra flavor.
- Lemon Butter Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the sauce for a zesty touch.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrition.
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu instead of chicken.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or rotini work well too.
How do I keep the noodles from getting too soft?
Cook them just until tender and avoid over-stirring.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add extra butter or a bit of flour to help thicken it.
What’s the best way to ensure juicy chicken?
Don’t overcook it! Use a meat thermometer and cook until 165°F (75°C).
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but the noodles may absorb the sauce. Add extra cream or broth when reheating.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, less butter, and substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Parmesan is classic, but Asiago or Romano also work well.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and check that your broth is gluten-free.
Do I have to use egg noodles?
No, but they absorb the sauce beautifully and have a great texture.
How do I add more flavor to the sauce?
Try adding a splash of white wine or extra garlic for a deeper flavor.
Conclusion
One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is a simple yet indulgent meal that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. With its rich, buttery sauce and tender chicken, this dish is comfort food at its best. Give it a try for an easy, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup!
PrintOne-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles
This One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is a comforting and delicious meal made with tender pan-seared chicken, buttery egg noodles, and a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. Everything cooks in one pan for easy cleanup, making it a perfect weeknight dinner!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Creamy Buttered Noodles:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken:
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil or butter.
- Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the buttered noodles:
- In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the egg noodles, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Simmer and cook:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and the sauce thickens.
- Add cheese and chicken:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Slice the cooked chicken and place it back in the pan.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve warm!
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in ¼ cup sour cream at the end.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different variation.
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version!