One-Pan Chicken with Garlic Butter Noodles

There’s something truly comforting about a one-pan meal—minimal cleanup, simple steps, and flavors that meld beautifully as everything cooks together. This One-Pan Chicken with Garlic Butter Noodles is one of those easy yet satisfying dishes that bring warmth to the table.

Imagine juicy, golden-brown chicken nestled in a bed of buttery, garlicky noodles, all cooked in the same pan so that every bite is infused with deep, savory flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or looking for something special yet fuss-free, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality meal with very little effort.

If you love rich, garlicky pasta and perfectly seared chicken, you’ll want to keep reading—this recipe is a must-try!

Why I Love This Recipe

this …

There are plenty of one-pan meals out there, but this one stands out for its simplicity, flavor, and practicality. The chicken is seared to perfection, ensuring a crispy, flavorful crust, while the noodles soak up the garlicky, buttery sauce that’s enhanced with just a hint of parmesan.

Here’s why this recipe works so well:

• Minimal Cleanup – Since everything cooks in a single pan, you won’t have a pile of dishes to deal with afterward.
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken – Cooking the chicken first ensures a beautifully golden crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
• Flavor-Packed Noodles – Cooking the noodles in the same pan allows them to absorb all the chicken drippings, garlic butter, and seasonings, making every bite rich and delicious.
• Great for Meal Prep – This dish reheats beautifully, making it a perfect choice for leftovers.

If you’re a fan of easy, flavorful meals that taste like something from your favorite Italian restaurant, you’re going to love this!

Ingredients for One-Pan Chicken with Garlic Butter Noodles

A great dish starts with the right ingredients. To make this flavorful meal, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients.

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – About 2 large breasts, pounded to even thickness.
• Olive oil – For searing the chicken.
• Salt & black pepper – To season the chicken.
• Garlic powder & onion powder – Adds depth of flavor.
• Paprika – Gives the chicken a slight smoky taste.
• Italian seasoning – For an herby, aromatic touch.

For the Garlic Butter Noodles:

• Unsalted butter – The base of the rich, garlicky sauce.
• Fresh garlic – Minced, for bold garlic flavor.
• Chicken broth – Helps cook the pasta and adds depth.
• Heavy cream – For a silky, creamy sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty richness.
• Spaghetti or linguine – Any long pasta will work.
• Fresh parsley – For a fresh, vibrant garnish.

With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant.

How Much Time Will You Need

One of the best parts of this recipe is that it’s quick and easy. Here’s the estimated time breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

This means you can have a restaurant-worthy dinner ready in under 40 minutes—perfect for a busy evening!

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Garlic Butter Noodles

Cooking this dish is simple if you follow these steps carefully.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps create a better sear. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles in the Same Pan

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Parmesan

Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, creating a creamy, garlicky sauce.

Step 6: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Slice the rested chicken into thin strips and add it back to the pan. Toss gently to coat in the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and serve warm.

Every bite of this dish is packed with buttery, garlicky goodness and juicy, well-seasoned chicken!

Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or need a dietary swap, here are some great alternatives:

• Chicken thighs instead of breasts – For extra juiciness.
• Half-and-half instead of heavy cream – A lighter alternative.
• Gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
• Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth – If you prefer a vegetarian base.
• Dried herbs instead of fresh parsley – If fresh herbs aren’t available.

Small substitutions can make this dish adaptable while keeping the flavors intact.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Chicken with Garlic Butter Noodles

To elevate this meal, pair it with these delicious sides:

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Adds color and texture to the plate.
3. Simple Green Salad – A fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.

These sides complement the flavors without overpowering the main dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you present a dish can elevate the dining experience, even if the recipe itself is simple. For One-Pan Chicken with Garlic Butter Noodles, a few thoughtful touches can make your meal feel special.

1. Serve in a Large, Shallow Dish – This allows the noodles to spread out and highlights the chicken in a way that makes the dish look more generous and appealing.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs – A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery sauce.
3. Add a Dusting of Parmesan – A light dusting of grated parmesan over the top before serving gives the dish a polished, restaurant-style finish.
4. Serve with Lemon Wedges – A squeeze of lemon right before eating adds brightness that balances the richness of the garlic butter sauce.

These small yet simple touches will help you create a meal that looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for a dinner party or a cozy weeknight meal.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

While the recipe is already delicious on its own, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to make it even more flavorful or suited to your personal preferences:

1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – Freshly grated parmesan melts better into the sauce, making it smoother and creamier than pre-grated cheese.
2. Sear the Chicken with Butter – For an extra layer of flavor, add a tablespoon of butter to the pan while searing the chicken. This will help develop a rich, golden crust on the chicken.
3. Add Extra Garlic – If you’re a fan of garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two to the sauce. The garlic flavor is the star of the dish, so a little more won’t hurt!
4. Spice It Up – A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat and enhance the savory flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
5. Don’t Overcook the Noodles – Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks in the broth, as overcooking will make it mushy. It should absorb the liquid and become tender but still have a bite.

With these simple tricks, you can adjust the recipe to your taste and take it to the next level!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes like this can have a few pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure that your One-Pan Chicken with Garlic Butter Noodles turns out perfectly:

1. Not Drying the Chicken Before Searing – If the chicken is too wet, it won’t sear properly and may steam instead of getting that beautiful golden crust. Always pat the chicken dry before cooking.
2. Overcrowding the Pan – If your pan is too small, the chicken won’t sear evenly. Make sure to use a large enough pan to give each chicken breast room to cook properly.
3. Not Seasoning the Chicken Well Enough – Don’t skimp on seasoning. The chicken should be flavorful on its own, as it’s the base of the dish.
4. Using Cold Chicken – Let the chicken rest after cooking before slicing it. If you cut it too soon, the juices will escape, leaving you with dry meat.
5. Not Tasting the Sauce – Always taste your garlic butter sauce before serving to adjust seasoning. You might need a little extra salt, pepper, or cheese depending on your preference.

Avoiding these simple mistakes will help you create a dish that’s just as delicious as it is easy to make.

How to Store It

If you have leftovers (or want to make this meal ahead of time), here’s how to store it properly:

1. In the Refrigerator – Place the chicken and noodles in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating – To reheat, warm the dish gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Freezing – This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the chicken and noodles in a freezer-safe container. When reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge before warming it on the stove.

Proper storage ensures that your leftovers remain flavorful and moist, ready for another delicious meal.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about this One-Pan Chicken with Garlic Butter Noodles recipe:

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, adding even more juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs take a little longer to cook than breasts.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Absolutely. Use dairy-free butter and non-dairy cream (such as coconut cream or oat cream) as substitutes for the butter and heavy cream. You can also use dairy-free parmesan or skip the cheese entirely for a lighter version.
3. What other pasta can I use?
   While spaghetti or linguine works best, you can swap it for any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta will all work well.
4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
   Yes! Sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers in the pan before cooking the chicken. You can also add a handful of peas or asparagus towards the end of the noodle cooking time.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for some heat, or toss in some sliced jalapeños during the searing process to infuse a bit of spice into the chicken.

Print