When life gets busy, yet you still crave a comforting meal that’s easy to make, there’s nothing better than a dish that comes together effortlessly in a slow cooker. One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles is the epitome of a no-fuss, hearty meal that requires minimal preparation but delivers on taste every single time.

I came up with this recipe after a particularly hectic week, when I was craving something warm and soothing but had little time to spare in the kitchen. I wanted a recipe that would combine tender chicken, flavorful seasonings, and the satisfaction of a bowl of buttery noodles, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup. And that’s exactly what this slow cooker recipe does! It’s simple, delicious, and comes together with hardly any effort. The beauty of this dish is that you don’t have to be a culinary expert to make it—just throw everything in, set the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.

Keep reading to discover why this easy meal has become a favorite in my kitchen, and why it will become a go-to in yours too!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something truly magical about dishes that make life easier without compromising on flavor. One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles Slow Cooker is exactly that kind of recipe—simple yet packed with comfort and taste.

The best part? It’s a true “set it and forget it” meal. Once you’ve added all the ingredients to the slow cooker, all you need to do is wait while the flavors meld together. The chicken cooks so tender that it practically falls apart with the touch of a fork. The noodles, cooked right alongside the chicken, soak up all the delicious juices, becoming rich, buttery, and perfectly seasoned. The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop gradually, which makes every bite a savory delight.

This dish isn’t just easy—it’s also customizable. You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, add more vegetables for added nutrition, or swap in gluten-free noodles if that’s your preference. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, meaning fewer dishes to clean after dinner. What more could you ask for?

Ingredients for One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles Slow Cooker

Before you begin cooking, make sure you have these key ingredients on hand:

Chicken Breasts (or Thighs): Chicken breasts work wonderfully for this recipe, though thighs are equally tender and flavorful. Choose whichever you prefer!
Butter: A generous amount of butter adds that rich, indulgent flavor to the noodles and sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic or garlic powder provides a savory base note that enhances the dish’s flavor.
Chicken Broth: The liquid component is key for cooking the noodles and infusing them with flavor.
Egg Noodles: These soft, wide noodles cook perfectly in the slow cooker, soaking up all the juices from the chicken and butter.
Onion: Chopped onions bring a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary work together to give the dish that comforting, homey feel. You can also add a pinch of paprika for a mild smoky flavor.
Cream Cheese (optional): For a creamier texture and richer flavor, you can add cream cheese. This will make the sauce velvety and decadent.

These are the basic ingredients, but feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or peas, or even cheese if you want to enhance the flavor further.

How Much Time Will You Need

One of the great things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly time-efficient, despite being made in a slow cooker.

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker

The beauty of slow cooking is that you can start this dish in the morning, and by the time you’re ready for dinner, you’ll have a hot, satisfying meal waiting for you. The active prep time is minimal, mostly just chopping and measuring ingredients. The long cook time ensures that the chicken becomes tender and the noodles perfectly absorb the rich flavors.

How to Make This One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles

Here’s how to make this simple yet flavorful dish:

Step – 1: Prepare the Chicken Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and any other spices you’d like. Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) into the slow cooker. If you’re using skin-on chicken, it can help to sear the skin in a skillet beforehand for added crispiness, but this step is optional.

Step – 2: Add the Aromatics Next, chop your onion and garlic and add them on top of the chicken. These ingredients will flavor the chicken as it cooks and create a savory aroma that will fill your kitchen.

Step – 3: Pour in the Liquids Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is partially submerged. This broth will create a delicious base for the noodles to cook in. Then add the butter and any herbs you’re using. You can also add a dollop of cream cheese here if you’re making a creamier sauce.

Step – 4: Cook the Chicken Cover the slow cooker and let the chicken cook on low for 4-6 hours (or high for 2-3 hours). You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fall-apart tender.

Step – 5: Add the Noodles Once the chicken is cooked, break it apart gently with a fork. Then, add the egg noodles to the slow cooker, stirring to combine. Pour in a little more chicken broth if needed to make sure the noodles are covered.

Step – 6: Continue Cooking Cover the slow cooker and cook the noodles for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and fully cooked.

Step – 7: Stir and Serve Once the noodles are cooked, give everything a good stir to combine the buttery sauce with the noodles. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Substitutions

Hook: Looking to personalize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs? Here are some great substitutions you can make to customize this dish!

Chicken: You can substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a more juicy, flavorful option. Alternatively, bone-in chicken pieces work well for an extra-rich broth.
Noodles: If you’re avoiding gluten, you can easily swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta. Spiralized zucchini noodles are also a great option for a low-carb version.
Butter: If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or even avocado oil. This will give a different, slightly lighter flavor.
Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian or vegan option (but remember to omit the chicken).
Cream Cheese: Skip the cream cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version. Instead, try using coconut milk for a creamy texture.

With these substitutions, you can easily make this dish your own without compromising on flavor or texture.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles

While this dish is filling on its own, adding a side or two can make it an even more satisfying meal. Here are three perfect side dishes that complement the flavors of One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles:

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts adds color and nutritional balance to the dish.
Garlic Bread: For an extra indulgent treat, serve this meal with freshly baked garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky crunch pairs wonderfully with the soft noodles.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the chicken and noodles.

These sides elevate the meal and provide variety, making for a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Hook: The way you serve a dish can elevate the whole dining experience. Here are some simple yet effective ways to present your One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles that will impress your guests and make your meal feel extra special!

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme on top of your dish will instantly brighten the plate and add a burst of color. The freshness balances the richness of the butter and chicken.
Serve in Individual Bowls: For a cozy, family-style dinner, serve each portion of the chicken and noodles in a bowl. This presentation makes it feel more personal and helps each person get a perfect mix of chicken and noodles in every bite.
Use a Large Serving Platter: If you’re serving this dish for a crowd, consider placing the entire meal on a large, shallow platter. You can layer the chicken on top of the noodles and drizzle the buttery sauce over everything. This presentation works beautifully for a dinner party or family gathering.
Pair with Colorful Sides: When serving side dishes, go for colors that contrast with the rich, golden hues of the chicken and noodles. Bright greens from a salad or roasted vegetables will complement the main dish both in flavor and visual appeal.

These simple presentation tips can transform your dish into a showstopper, making it feel both comforting and gourmet at the same time.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Better

Hook: Want to take this dish to the next level? Here are some expert tips and tricks that will make your One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles even more flavorful and foolproof!

Sear the Chicken First: While this recipe works without it, searing the chicken in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker will develop a richer flavor and a slightly crispy exterior. This step adds depth to the dish and enhances the savory notes.
Adjust the Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the seasonings. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat, while a dash of lemon zest will bring a refreshing, zesty contrast to the richness of the dish. A little extra garlic or onion powder can also deepen the flavors.
Add Extra Vegetables: If you want to make this dish more nutritious, feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Toss them into the slow cooker along with the noodles and let them cook until tender. It’s a great way to sneak in more greens!
Use a Quality Chicken Broth: The broth is the backbone of the dish’s flavor, so use a good-quality chicken broth. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought versions with fewer additives will work well too. The broth gives the noodles their delicious flavor and creates the perfect sauce for the chicken.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Be sure to check the noodles toward the end of cooking. They absorb liquid quickly and can become mushy if cooked too long. Stir them once or twice during the cooking process to ensure they cook evenly.

These tips will help you perfect this dish and make it your own. With just a few tweaks, you can create a meal that’s even more tailored to your taste!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Hook: Even the simplest recipes can have their pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

Not Adding Enough Liquid: Since the noodles need enough broth to cook properly, be sure there’s enough liquid in the slow cooker. If you find the noodles aren’t fully cooked, you can always add a little more chicken broth during the cooking process.
Overcooking the Chicken: While slow cooking makes the chicken tender, you still want to be careful not to overcook it. Make sure you check the chicken around the 4-hour mark on low, or 2-3 hours on high, to ensure it’s perfectly tender without becoming dry.
Using the Wrong Type of Noodles: Avoid using noodles that cook too quickly or take too long, like spaghetti or penne. Egg noodles are perfect for slow-cooking, as they soften evenly and absorb the sauce without falling apart.
Not Stirring the Noodles Enough: If you don’t stir the noodles a couple of times during cooking, they can become clumped together or unevenly cooked. Give them a gentle stir to ensure they cook evenly and soak up all the flavorful broth.
Adding Noodles Too Early: If you add the noodles too soon in the slow cooker, they can overcook and become mushy. Make sure to add them about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve to get the perfect texture.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you achieve a creamy, flavorful dish that your family will love every time!

How to Store It

If you have leftovers (which is always a good thing with this recipe!), storing them properly will help maintain the flavors and texture of the dish.

In the Fridge: Store your chicken and noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
In the Freezer: If you want to freeze this meal for later, make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it into a freezer-safe container. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Reheating: When reheating, it’s important to add a little more liquid (chicken broth or water) to prevent the noodles from becoming too dry. Stir occasionally while reheating for an even temperature.

Storing and reheating this dish is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort on a busy day.

FAQ

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

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with other types of pasta, such as fusilli or bowties. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

2. Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! Use the same ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes, then release the pressure. Add the noodles and cook on sauté mode for a few minutes until they’re tender.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

4. Can I use frozen chicken?
Frozen chicken will work, but keep in mind that it may take longer to cook. If you’re using frozen chicken breasts or thighs, increase the cooking time by an hour and check for doneness before adding the noodles.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients the night before, place them in the slow cooker insert, and refrigerate it. In the morning, simply set it to cook and let it do the work.

One Pan Chicken With Buttered Noodles Slow Cooker