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If you’re looking for a comforting, absolutely satisfying dish that combines tender chicken and silky noodles all cooked in one pot, you’ve got to try this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels special without any fuss—each bite delivers juicy chicken infused with garlic and paprika alongside buttery, Parmesan-topped noodles that soak up every bit of flavor. Trust me, this recipe quickly became one of my go-to dishes when I want something homey yet impressive with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the savory spices that season the chicken to the creamy butter and Parmesan that finish the noodles, every component plays a vital role in making this dish shine.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for more juiciness or breasts for a leaner option, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the chicken perfectly while adding subtle richness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Provides a deep, mellow garlic flavor that complements the fresh garlic added later.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
- 3 cups chicken broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that cooks the noodles and keeps everything moist.
- 2 cups egg noodles: These soft, slightly chewy noodles soak up all the tasty broth and butter.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that irresistible silky texture in the noodles.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a punch of aroma and flavor during the final cooking stage.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, salty finish that perfectly complements the buttered noodles and chicken.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, bright flavor just before serving.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken to Perfection
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil warms, season your bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple spice mix is what gives your chicken that irresistible golden crust and savory flavor. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to keep warm while you prepare the noodles.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles in Flavorful Chicken Broth
Using the same skillet (no need to dirty another pot!), bring the chicken broth to a boil. This broth is key because it will infuse the noodles with savory goodness as they cook. Stir in the egg noodles, reduce the heat to medium, and cover the pan. Let the noodles cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know they’re ready when the noodles are tender and most of the broth has been absorbed, creating a perfect base for the butter and garlic.
Step 3: Add Butter and Garlic for Creamy, Flavor-Packed Noodles
Lower the heat and stir in the butter and minced fresh garlic. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the butter melts completely and the garlic becomes fragrant without burning. This step is where the noodles truly transform, becoming rich, buttery, and infused with that fresh garlic aroma that makes this dish so comforting.
Step 4: Return the Chicken and Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
Finally, add the browned chicken back into the skillet and gently toss it with the noodles to combine all those flavors. Just before serving, sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a savory, cheesy finish and a hint of freshness. The result is a warm, complete meal that sings with every forkful.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is a wonderful way to elevate the dish. Fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of bright green color and a clean, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese just before serving can enhance the savory depth and add a little sparkle to the presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but if you want to add some extra veggies, a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli pairs beautifully. The light, fresh crunch balances the richness of the buttered noodles and the savory chicken, creating a well-rounded dinner experience that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a dinner party or just want to impress your family, try plating the noodles in a shallow bowl topped with the chicken arranged neatly on top. A drizzle of olive oil or a few lemon zest shavings can add visual interest and a pop of brightness. You might even try layering the dish in a casserole-style serving dish, garnished with fresh herbs, to make it feel like a cozy, elegant casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftovers of this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to keep the noodles tender and the chicken juicy.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, it freezes well too. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, making sure the meal is completely cooled before freezing. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a tablespoon of water or broth to prevent sticking and keep the noodles from drying out. Alternatively, microwave covered in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even heating. Adding a little extra butter before reheating can revive the richness perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both boneless skinless chicken thighs and breasts work well in this recipe. Thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful, but breasts are a leaner option and will still taste great as long as you don’t overcook them.
What type of noodles should I use?
Egg noodles are classic for this recipe because they have a nice chew and absorb the broth and butter beautifully. You can use wide or medium egg noodles, or even try other pasta shapes like fettuccine or pappardelle for a fun twist.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, to make it gluten-free, just swap the egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta. Make sure to check that your chicken broth is gluten-free as well, since some brands contain wheat-based ingredients.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! You can toss in quick-cooking veggies like spinach, peas, or sliced mushrooms in step 2 when the noodles are cooking. Just keep in mind to adjust cooking times so everything finishes perfectly together.
Can I substitute Parmesan cheese?
While Parmesan adds a signature nutty, salty flavor, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano if you prefer. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a similar umami boost.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight, but flavorful and special enough to become a family favorite. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat too!
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One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a quick and comforting dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked with flavorful seasonings, combined with egg noodles simmered in chicken broth, and finished with buttery garlic and Parmesan. This easy skillet recipe is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, delivering rich flavors with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Noodles and Sauce
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the noodles: In the same skillet, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the egg noodles, then reduce heat to medium and cover. Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and most of the broth has been absorbed.
- Add butter and garlic: Lower the heat, then stir in the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the butter is melted, mixing well with the noodles.
- Combine chicken and finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently combine it with the noodles. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley (if using) over the top just before serving for added flavor and garnish.
Notes
- You can use either chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference for juiciness or leanness.
- For a lower sodium version, use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust salt to taste.
- Fresh parsley is optional but adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Make sure to stir the noodles occasionally to prevent sticking to the pan.
- This dish can be doubled easily to serve a larger group.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
