One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

There’s something magical about a one-pan dinner—especially when it’s bursting with flavor, loaded with comfort, and easy enough to pull off on a weeknight. One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles checks all those boxes. It’s buttery, garlicky, juicy, and downright soul-soothing.

If your weeknights are a chaotic blur (whose aren’t?), this is the kind of recipe that swoops in like a hero. You get hearty protein, a carby base that soaks up all the flavor, and hardly any cleanup. Sound like a dream? Let’s dig in.

Why One-Pan Meals Are a Game-Changer

Let’s be real—cooking is fun until the mountain of dishes stares you down after dinner. That’s where one-pan meals shine.

They’re quick, efficient, and save you a ton of cleanup. You toss everything into one skillet or pot, let it work its magic, and voila—dinner is served without the dishwashing drama.

Not to mention, it’s easier to build deep flavors when all your ingredients are cooked together. The chicken juices, the starchy pasta water, and the rich butter create a sauce that money can’t buy.

What Makes This Dish So Special?

Sure, you’ve probably had chicken and noodles before. But this one? It’s next-level.

• Minimal ingredients that deliver maximum flavor.
• Perfectly seared chicken that locks in moisture.
• Rich, buttery noodles cooked in the same pan to soak up every bit of flavor.
• It’s family-friendly and budget-conscious, making it ideal for weeknight warriors and picky eaters alike.

This recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get cooking, let’s break down what you’ll need for both the chicken and the noodles.

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil for searing

For the Buttered Noodles

• 8 oz egg noodles (or wide pasta)
• 2–3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)

Choosing the Right Pan

Not all pans are created equal. For this recipe, a large non-stick or stainless-steel skillet with a lid is ideal.

Why?

• You need enough surface area to sear the chicken properly.
• A deep enough pan helps the noodles cook evenly.
• A lid is crucial to lock in steam and cook the pasta to perfection.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make the magic happen? Let’s go step by step.

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken with garlic powder, paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.

Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken down and let it sear without moving it for 4–5 minutes per side. You want that golden crust. Set it aside once it’s cooked through and juicy.

Step 2: Add the Noodles and Broth

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it!), add the minced garlic. Let it sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the egg noodles, making sure they’re mostly submerged. Cover the pan and let them cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Finish with Butter and Herbs

Once the noodles are tender and most of the broth is absorbed, stir in the butter. Let it melt and coat the noodles in silky goodness.

Toss in some chopped parsley and shaved Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Add the chicken back to the pan, nestling it over the noodles, and let everything heat through together for 2–3 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Buttered Noodles Every Time

• Don’t overcook the noodles. Keep an eye on them; they can go from tender to mushy fast.
• Stir frequently so the pasta doesn’t stick.
• Butter goes in last so it clings to the hot noodles, creating a glossy finish.
• Use fresh garlic and herbs for flavor that pops.

Variations to Try

Want to change things up? This recipe is super flexible.

Creamy Chicken Noodles

• Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese after the noodles cook for a richer, creamier texture.

Spicy One-Pan Chicken

• Mix red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce into the broth for a subtle kick.

Veggie-Boosted Version

• Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or frozen peas during the final few minutes. They cook quickly and make the dish more balanced.

Make It Ahead or Meal Prep Friendly

Yes, this meal is just as good the next day—maybe even better!

• Meal prep tip: Cook the chicken separately and store the noodles in an airtight container. Combine and reheat when ready to eat.
• Storing: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to revive the noodles.

What to Serve With One-Pan Chicken and Noodles

This meal can stand alone, but if you want to round it out, here are a few ideas:

• Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted broccoli
• Garlic bread or cheesy toast

You could even serve it with a glass of white wine if you’re feeling fancy.

FAQs about One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely. Just skip the searing step and add the shredded rotisserie chicken when you’re finishing the noodles.

How do I store leftovers?

Let everything cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free egg noodles or pasta. Make sure your broth and seasonings are also gluten-free.

What other pasta types can I use?

Wide egg noodles are classic, but you can sub in penne, rotini, or even broken fettuccine. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can! Swap butter with vegan butter and skip the Parmesan—or use a dairy-free alternative.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy, it’s cozy, and it doesn’t require a culinary degree or a pile of dishes to pull off.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a no-fuss dinner after a long day—this dish has your back. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll be on repeat.

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