Oh, my friends, sit back and let me share a little secret! One of my all-time favorite go-to meals in my cozy kitchen is undoubtedly One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. I can still remember the very first time I whipped this up on a chilly Sunday evening. The aroma of sizzling chicken and the comforting scent of garlic wafting through the air wrapped me in a warm hug. I had just returned home after a long day, and all I truly wanted was something comforting, delicious, and seriously simple.
I discovered this delightful dish quite by accident, dear friends. I had just returned from the market, a basket full of veggies and chicken in tow, and my brain was swirling with ideas. Then, I thought: “Why not keep it simple? Why not throw it all in one pan?” That’s how this magical, buttery creation came to life. Each bite of tender chicken layered atop those delectable, silky noodles is like a mini celebration of flavors dancing on your palate! I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try—it’s sure to warm your heart and fill your tummy with love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal!
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for little taste buds (and grown-ups too!).
- Flavor Packed: Bursting with juicy chicken, savory garlic, and rich butter.
- Versatile: Add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch!
Recipe Snapshot
| Category | Cuisine | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield | Skill Level |
|—————|—————-|———–|———–|————|—————|—————–|
| Main Dish | American | 10 mins | 20 mins | 30 mins | Serves 4-6 | Beginner-Friendly|
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs): Tender and juicy, these beauties are the star of the show! You can also use thighs for even more flavor.
- 8 oz egg noodles: Perfectly chewy, these noodles love to soak up that buttery goodness.
- 4 tbsp real butter: Oh, the magic of butter! It adds richness and depth to the dish. Don’t skimp on this one!
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Your kitchen will smell divine! Garlic brings a warm and inviting flavor that complements everything beautifully.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: A flavorful base that keeps the chicken moist and delicious while cooking.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: A pop of freshness that brightens up the dish and adds a splash of color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The simplest seasonings that elevate flavors and bring everything together.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
Prep Your Ingredients
Start by washing and chopping your garlic and any veggies you’d like to toss in (fresh spinach or peas work wonderfully!). It’s amazing how the simple act of prepping can transform your kitchen atmosphere.
Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. When it’s nice and bubbly, gently lay the chicken breasts in the pan. Sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This creates that beautiful crust we all love! Don’t forget to sprinkle generous pinches of salt and pepper on those beauties.
Add the Garlic
Once your chicken is beautifully seared, toss in the minced garlic. Ahh, the aroma! Sauté for about a minute until fragrant—your kitchen will radiate cozy vibes, and you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar!
Pour in the Chicken Broth
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a joyful boil. The steam rising will dance around your kitchen—it’s quite the sight!
Add the Noodles
Gently stir in the egg noodles. Cover the skillet and allow it to simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender and al dente. Give it a stir every now and then so everything mingles beautifully, and those flavors infuse together!
Finish It Off
Remove the skillet from heat, and stir in the remaining tablespoons of butter—yes, please! Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and voila! Dinner is served, my friends!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be perfectly juicy.
- Don’t rush the sear: Let that chicken develop a nice golden color for best flavor.
- Adjust the broth: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can replace half of the broth with heavy cream!
Flavor Variations
- Veggie Additions: Toss in fresh spinach, peas, or even diced bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Herb Twists: Try basil or thyme instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who like it spicy!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cozy dish with a light side salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water pairs perfectly too! For an added touch, consider garnishing your dish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese—so fancy yet so easy!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the chicken and marinate it in your favorite seasonings the night before! Store it in the fridge, and it will be ready to cook when you are. In terms of leftovers, this dish will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh!
Leftovers
Turn your leftovers into a fabulous chicken noodle soup! Simply add some extra broth, toss in chopped veggies, and let it simmer for a comforting moment.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles! Just ensure it’s cooled completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can freeze beautifully for 2-3 months. For best results, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For best reheating, place your chicken and noodles in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it saucy. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to warm it evenly.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free egg noodles work just as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may vary.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice or zest for brightness or some dried Italian herbs for an additional flavor boost!
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F for a perfectly cooked chicken.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it may take longer to cook. Make sure to thaw it before cooking for even results!
Final Thoughts
Oh, sweet friends, I hope you find as much comfort and joy in this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles as I have. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that wraps you in warmth and coziness after a long day. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and sharing those special moments around the dinner table. So grab your apron and get ready to create some delicious memories! Happy cooking! 🍽️
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1.5 lbs 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts You can also use thighs for more flavor.
- 8 oz egg noodles Perfectly chewy, absorb the buttery goodness.
- 4 tbsp real butter Adds richness and depth to the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Brings a warm and inviting flavor.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth Keeps the chicken moist and delicious.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped Adds freshness and color to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste Elevates flavors and brings everything together.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and chop the garlic and any veggies you’d like to add, such as fresh spinach or peas.
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the egg noodles. Cover the skillet and allow it to simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the noodles are tender and al dente.
- Remove from heat and stir in the remaining tablespoons of butter, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.