As the days get busier and dinner time approaches, finding a quick and easy recipe that satisfies everyone can feel like a challenge. That’s when the magic of One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles comes in. With this recipe, you can create a flavorful, hearty meal in no time, without having to dirty multiple pots and pans. It’s the kind of dish that can make a weeknight feel a little less hectic.

This recipe came about from the need to simplify dinner without sacrificing taste. I wanted something that combined tender, juicy chicken with the rich comfort of buttery noodles. The best part? It all comes together in one pan. From the seared chicken to the buttery, garlicky noodles that soak up all the delicious flavors, this dish is a winner for both the cook and the family.

Perfect for a busy evening, One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles will quickly become a go-to meal that leaves your kitchen smelling amazing. Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive into the details.

Why I Love This Recipe**

There’s something truly special about one-pan meals, and this One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is no exception. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also a great way to serve a balanced meal with minimal cleanup. The combination of crispy-skinned chicken and tender, buttery noodles creates a comfort-food experience that feels like a treat but doesn’t require hours of prep.

Why do people love this recipe? It’s because it brings together two family favorites—chicken and noodles—and transforms them into a complete, satisfying meal with a simple, hands-off approach. The beauty of it lies in the simplicity. With a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create something that feels like a special dish without being complicated or time-consuming.

And let’s talk about the flavor. The chicken gets perfectly seared, locking in its juices, while the noodles cook right in the same pan, absorbing all the savory goodness. The addition of garlic, butter, and a splash of chicken broth takes it to the next level, creating a mouthwatering dish that will have your family asking for seconds.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to make, comforting to eat, and won’t leave you with a pile of dishes to clean, this One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is for you.

Ingredients for One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles**

What makes this recipe so easy and convenient is that it requires just a handful of ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious one-pan meal:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. They cook quickly and stay juicy when seared in the pan.
Egg Noodles: These are the perfect noodles to pair with the buttery sauce. Their shape and texture hold the sauce well, making each bite satisfying.
Butter: The butter adds richness and flavor to the noodles, making them incredibly comforting.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a bold, aromatic touch that complements both the chicken and the noodles.
Chicken Broth: You’ll need this to cook the noodles and infuse the entire dish with savory flavor. Opt for low-sodium broth if you prefer more control over the salt level.
Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and adding a bit of crispiness to the skin.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing the flavor of the chicken and noodles.
Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley brings a pop of color and a hint of freshness to finish the dish.

These ingredients come together to create a hearty meal that’s flavorful yet straightforward, proving that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make a delicious dinner.

How Much Time Will You Need?**

One of the best things about this One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is how quickly it comes together. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:

Preparation Time: 10 minutes. This includes prepping the chicken, chopping the garlic, and measuring out the broth and seasonings.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes. This includes searing the chicken, cooking the noodles, and letting everything simmer together.
Total Time: 35-40 minutes.

In less than an hour, you’ll have a fully cooked, flavorful meal ready to serve. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

How to Make One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles**

Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making this tasty dish. Follow along, and you’ll have a meal on the table in no time!

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken to the pan. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter. Let it melt and cook the garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits from the chicken. Bring the broth to a simmer, then add the egg noodles. Stir the noodles to make sure they are evenly coated in the broth.

Step 3: Simmer and Combine

Cover the skillet and let the noodles cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Once the noodles are done, return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the noodles. Add the remaining butter and stir everything together, letting the butter melt and coat the noodles. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle the finished dish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. The chicken should be perfectly tender and juicy, while the noodles will be rich and buttery, infused with all the flavors from the chicken and garlic.

Substitutions**

While this recipe is simple and delicious as is, there are several substitutions you can make to cater to different tastes or dietary preferences.

Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for the chicken breasts. They add a bit more flavor and stay juicy.
Gluten-Free Noodles: If you’re gluten intolerant, feel free to use gluten-free egg noodles or another gluten-free pasta of your choice.
Vegetable Broth: For a lighter or vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Vegan Butter: If you’re vegan or dairy-free, swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative.
Herbs: Feel free to add additional herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for extra flavor.

These substitutions allow you to tailor the dish to fit your dietary needs or preferences while still keeping it simple and satisfying.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles**

To round out this meal, consider pairing it with one of these complementary side dishes:

Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a healthy and flavorful side that complements the richness of the noodles.
Simple Salad: A light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect fresh contrast to the buttery chicken and noodles.
Bread: A crusty loaf of bread, perfect for soaking up the extra broth and butter, is always a crowd-pleaser.

These sides add variety to the meal while keeping it simple and easy to prepare.

## Serving and Presentation Tips**

The presentation of a dish can elevate the entire dining experience, and this One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is no exception. Here are a few tips to make the dish look as good as it tastes:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or thyme adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish. It’s simple but adds a gourmet touch that makes your meal look more inviting.
Use a Large, Shallow Dish: If you’re serving the dish on a plate, consider using a wide, shallow bowl or plate. This allows the chicken and noodles to be displayed nicely, with the noodles surrounding the chicken for a well-balanced presentation.
Create Height: To make the dish look even more appetizing, place the chicken breast in the center of the noodles. This creates a sense of height and makes it look more visually appealing, especially when garnished with fresh herbs.
Serve with a Side: If you’ve chosen a side like roasted vegetables or a salad, arrange it neatly beside the main dish for a more aesthetically pleasing plate. For extra flair, you can even add a small bowl of dipping sauce or extra broth on the side.

Small touches like these can turn an everyday meal into something special, and it doesn’t take much effort to do so.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better**

While this One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is already simple and delicious, here are a few tips and tricks to make it even more flavorful:

Season the Chicken Well: Don’t skimp on seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the overall flavor of the dish. If you want a deeper taste, try adding a bit of paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to the chicken for an extra layer of flavor.
Use Quality Butter: The butter is the star of the noodle sauce, so make sure to use high-quality butter for the best flavor. Grass-fed butter, in particular, adds a rich, creamy taste that takes this dish to the next level.
Add a Splash of White Wine: For a more complex flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the pan when you’re simmering the noodles. The wine will help deglaze the pan and add a subtle acidity that balances the richness of the butter.
Sear the Chicken Properly: Getting a good sear on the chicken is key to locking in moisture and adding flavor. Make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the pan. This will help the chicken cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Let the Noodles Soak Up the Sauce: Once the noodles are cooked, let them sit in the pan with the sauce for a few minutes before serving. This allows the noodles to absorb more of the buttery goodness, making each bite more flavorful.

With these tips, you’ll be able to make this dish even more delicious and tailored to your taste preferences.

Common Mistakes to Avoid**

Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

Not Searing the Chicken Long Enough: Skimping on the searing time can result in chicken that is undercooked or lacks flavor. Make sure to sear the chicken for the full 6-7 minutes on each side to develop a nice golden crust and ensure it’s cooked through.
Overcooking the Noodles: Noodles can easily become mushy if cooked for too long. Be sure to check the noodles regularly while they’re simmering, and only cook them until they’re tender but still firm to the bite.
Not Enough Seasoning: Both the chicken and the noodles need seasoning to make the dish flavorful. Don’t forget to salt the chicken before searing, and make sure to taste the noodles before serving, adjusting the seasoning as necessary.
Crowding the Pan: If you try to cook too many chicken breasts at once, they won’t sear properly. This can lead to uneven cooking and a less desirable texture. If you need to, sear the chicken in batches.
Skipping the Resting Step for Chicken: After searing the chicken, it’s essential to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist and tender.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll be sure to make a dish that is both flavorful and perfectly cooked every time.

How to Store It**

If you happen to have leftovers of this One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles (though that’s unlikely!), here’s how you can store it:

Refrigeration: Place any leftover chicken and noodles in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing: You can also freeze this dish for longer storage. Simply transfer the cooled chicken and noodles to a freezer-safe container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the dish over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen up the noodles. Stir frequently until heated through.

By following these storage tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for days to come.

FAQ**

Here are some frequently asked questions about this One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles:

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, but bone-in chicken will take longer to cook. You may need to adjust the cooking time for both the chicken and the noodles. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While the noodles may become a little softer if made ahead, you can cook the chicken and noodles in advance and store them separately. Reheat the chicken and noodles when ready to serve.

Q: What if I don’t have egg noodles?
A: You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta you have on hand, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for the type of pasta.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms to the pan along with the noodles to make it a more complete meal.

Q: Can I make this dish with a different protein?
A: Yes, you can swap the chicken for other proteins like turkey breasts, pork chops, or even shrimp. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the protein you choose.