One-pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than a bowl of creamy buttered noodles paired with tender, juicy chicken. This one-pan meal is the perfect solution for busy nights when you want something warm, satisfying, and easy to make.

I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I was craving something rich but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples and a single pan, I created a meal that quickly became a household favorite. Now, it’s my go-to for effortless comfort food.

Why You'll Love This One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

Get ready to add this simple yet indulgent meal to your dinner rotation. This dish is packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is perfect for any occasion.

First off, everything cooks in one pan, which means less time spent washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. The noodles soak up all the flavors from the chicken and butter, making every bite irresistibly delicious.

It’s also incredibly quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have this meal on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe is budget-friendly without compromising on taste. Using simple ingredients like pasta, butter, and chicken, you can create a rich and satisfying dish without breaking the bank.

Finally, it’s versatile. You can switch up the protein, add vegetables, or play around with seasonings to suit your preferences. It’s a fantastic base recipe that allows for endless variations.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in making this dish as delicious as it is comforting.

Chicken is the star of the dish, and I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if you tend to overcook your protein, but chicken breasts work just as well if sliced evenly.

Pasta is another essential element. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as egg noodles, fettuccine, or rotini. Egg noodles are my favorite because they cook quickly and absorb the buttery sauce beautifully.

Butter and heavy cream create the rich, creamy base of this dish. Butter adds depth of flavor, while heavy cream makes the sauce luxuriously smooth. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

Garlic and Parmesan cheese add incredible depth and umami. Freshly minced garlic enhances the overall taste, while Parmesan melts into the sauce, bringing a salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together.

A splash of chicken broth helps cook the noodles and adds extra savory notes. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the seasoning and adjust it to taste.

How To Make This One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

This dish comes together quickly and easily with just a few steps. Let’s walk through the process so you can create the perfect bowl of creamy buttered noodles with juicy chicken.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt, then add your chicken pieces in an even layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, making sure not to burn it. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.

Add your uncooked noodles directly to the pan, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Let them cook in the broth, absorbing all the rich flavors as they soften. If needed, add a bit more liquid to ensure they cook evenly.

Once the pasta is tender, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, remaining butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until a smooth, creamy sauce forms. If it looks too thick, add a splash of extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Finally, return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring gently to coat it in the sauce. Let everything warm through for another minute, then remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The noodles will continue to absorb the sauce, so you may need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

To reheat, warm the dish in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding liquid as needed. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

For a protein swap, try using shrimp, sliced sausage, or even rotisserie chicken to cut down on cooking time. Each variation brings a different flavor profile while keeping the dish equally delicious.

If you want to add veggies, throw in some spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the final few minutes of cooking. They’ll blend beautifully into the creamy sauce and add extra nutrition.

To lighten up the dish, replace the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. While it won’t be as rich, it will still be creamy and satisfying.

For a flavor twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or stir in some lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy contrast to the buttered noodles.

No matter how you customize it, this one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles is sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

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