There’s something truly special about a comforting, hearty meal that comes together with minimal fuss. One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a dish that warms not just the stomach but the soul—perfectly tender chicken paired with wonderfully silky noodles drenched in rich, buttery goodness. The aromas wafting through the kitchen as it simmers are enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I find myself turning to this dish on busy weeknights or when I just want to indulge in something cozy with my family.
This recipe comes together surprisingly fast, making it perfect for those chaotic evenings when dinner sneaks up on you. It’s a one-pan wonder that saves on cleanup while still serving up a delightfully satisfying meal. And if you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), they taste just as amazing heated up the next day.
WHY I LOVE One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a true winner at my table! It hits that sweet spot between comfort food and elegance, making it versatile enough for everything from a casual weeknight meal to a cozy family dinner. The balance of flavors is incredibly easy and undeniably delicious, with the buttered noodles embracing the chicken like a warm hug. I just can’t get enough!
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles INGREDIENTS
The magic of this dish truly lies in its simplicity and harmony of flavors. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a comforting experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Essential Components
- 4 BONLESS, SKINLESS CHICKEN BREASTS (1.5 LBS): These are the stars of our dish, providing tender, juicy protein that complements the noodles perfectly.
- 8 OZ EGG NOODLES: Little gems that soak up the buttery sauce and round out the dish, adding a delightful texture.
- 4 TBSP REAL BUTTER: The secret ingredient for that luscious, rich flavor; it makes everything taste better!
- 4 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED: Adds a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish beautifully.
- 2 CUPS LOW-SODIUM CHICKEN BROTH: A flavorful base that keeps the noodles moist and gives the chicken an aromatic boost.
- ¼ CUP FRESH PARSLEY, CHOPPED: A pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish and balances the richness.
- SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE: Simple seasonings that elevate all the flavors at play.
SUBSTITUTIONS AND TIPS
Need a swap? If you’re missing an ingredient or looking to shake things up, here are a few options:
- Chicken thighs instead of breasts: They’ll bring a more robust flavor, though they may require a bit more cooking time.
- Butter alternatives: You can use olive oil for a lighter version, though it won’t be quite as rich.
- Whole wheat noodles: If you’re looking to make it a bit healthier, these will offer a nuttier flavor.
Also, keep in mind that timing is key; if you opt for larger chicken pieces, they may need a few more minutes to cook through.
KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED
- Large skillet (12-inch recommended)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife (for chopping garlic and parsley)
- Cutting board
- Serving plates
HOW TO MAKE One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Let’s dive into creating this incredibly delightful One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps that you can follow, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for creamy, tender noodles and perfectly cooked chicken.
Prep Your Ingredients for Easy Cooking
Start by chopping your garlic and any desired vegetables. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Sear for Crispy Skin
Next, heat your large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels (this helps them sear beautifully). Sear them for about 5 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor!
Sauté Aromatics for Flavor Base
Once the chicken is perfectly browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Add the minced garlic to the same pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step is key because it adds that lovely garlic essence to your dish!
Build the Flavor Foundation
Now pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Bring it to a boil to develop a deep flavor, setting the stage for our noodles.
Stir in Egg Noodles, Simmer to Perfection
Once the broth is bubbling, toss in the egg noodles. Keep an eye on them as they simmer for about 8-10 minutes until they’re al dente. You want them to be perfectly tender but still have a little bite!
Finish with Butter and Fresh Parsley
After the noodles have cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the remaining butter until it melts and mixes in beautifully with the noodles. Toss in the chopped parsley for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate up your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, and be ready to enjoy a comforting meal that will make everyone feel at home.
HOW TO STORE One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
If you happen to have any leftovers (which I doubt, honestly), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the dish for 2-3 months; just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the pasta if necessary.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Don’t crowd the pan when searing the chicken; it helps achieve a lovely crust.
- Use fresh ingredients where possible for the best flavor.
- Taste your broth before adding salt; it can vary in sodium content.
- Stir the noodles occasionally while they simmer to prevent sticking.
- Allow your dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking; it helps the flavors meld.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Pair with a simple green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
- A glass of chilled white wine complements the dish perfectly.
- Garnish with extra parsley for a vibrant presentation.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an indulgent touch.
I hope you enjoy this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles as much as I do! It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to leave soft smiles around your dinner table.
