If you’re craving a comforting, fuss-free dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re going to adore this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. This dish combines juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts with tender egg noodles bathed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce—all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s the ideal weeknight meal that feels special but comes together with ease, bringing a satisfying, cozy meal straight to your table.

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role, making this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles truly shine. From the spices that create a crispy crust on the chicken to the rich butter and garlic that turn simple noodles into a luscious side, these staples come together for effortless deliciousness.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose thick, even pieces for juicy, tender meat.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps crisp the chicken beautifully.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings warmth and depth to the chicken’s seasoning.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory notes and balances the spices.
1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a smoky hint and a gorgeous color to the chicken.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and highlighting every flavor.
4 cups chicken broth: The base for cooking noodles, adding savory richness and moisture.
8 ounces egg noodles: Bring a silky texture and soak up all the buttery goodness.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For that indulgent, silky sauce coating the noodles.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh, aromatic garlic elevates the butter sauce to another level.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, salty finish to the noodles, making them irresistible.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A pop of green freshness that brightens the dish at the end.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by coating both sides of your chicken breasts with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend is your secret weapon for flavorful, golden-brown chicken that forms the heart of the dish. Don’t skimp on seasoning—it really elevates the final dish.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Lay the chicken breasts in the pan, cooking about 5 to 6 minutes per side without moving them around too much. You want a beautiful, crisp crust on the outside and juicy tenderness inside. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest; this lets the juices redistribute for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Noodles

Using the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the egg noodles and press them under the liquid to ensure even cooking. Cover the pan and let the noodles cook through, about 7 to 8 minutes, until they’re tender yet still slightly firm—perfectly al dente.

Step 4: Prepare the Butter Garlic Sauce

While the noodles work their magic, melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes—be careful not to let it brown or burn! This step infuses the butter with aromatic garlic flavor that will coat your noodles beautifully.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Once noodles have absorbed most of the broth, dribble in your butter-garlic sauce and sprinkle the optional Parmesan cheese over the top. Gently toss everything together until the noodles are luxuriously coated. Slice the reserved chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the noodles, letting all those flavors mingle.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a hint of herbaceous brightness and a pop of color. Serve immediately and watch how this comforting meal disappears from the plate in no time.

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper elevate the dish visually and taste-wise. You can also add a few lemon wedges on the side for a fresh citrus squeeze that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

While this dish is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a light green salad or steamed veggies adds balance. Fresh steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette all harmonize perfectly with the buttery noodles and savory chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the chicken sliced over the noodles on individual plates, garnishing each with extra Parmesan and a sprig of parsley. Alternatively, plate the noodles in a shallow bowl and nestle the chicken slices on top for a rustic, cozy presentation that invites digging in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal, just be sure to reheat gently to keep the chicken tender and the noodles silky.

Freezing

You can freeze the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, though it’s best to freeze the chicken and noodles separately if you can. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the noodles’ moisture. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles instead of egg noodles?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional here for their wide, silky texture, feel free to swap in fettuccine, linguine, or even small pasta shapes like shells or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure perfectly tender noodles.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and check the chicken broth to make sure it’s gluten-free as well. The technique remains the same, and you’ll still get all the comforting flavors.

How can I add more vegetables to One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles?

Great idea! Toss in chopped spinach, peas, or sliced mushrooms into the broth with the noodles during cooking. They’ll cook through and blend seamlessly into this hearty, one-pan meal.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Definitely! Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs add a richer flavor and stay juicy. Just be mindful of slightly longer cooking times and adjust accordingly.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

No worries! The dish is delicious without it, but if you want a similar salty, nutty kick, try grating in some Pecorino Romano or even a mild Asiago cheese as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the kind of soul-satisfying meal that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s easy, elegant, and utterly comforting—a winning combination that simplifies dinner without skimping on flavor. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how this humble recipe becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine.

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

This one-pan chicken with buttered noodles is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines juicy, seasoned chicken breasts with tender egg noodles cooked in savory chicken broth. Enhanced with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to ensure flavorful, well-spiced chicken.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Simmer the Broth and Noodles: In the same skillet with the flavorful drippings, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the egg noodles, making sure they are fully submerged in the broth to cook evenly.
Cook the Noodles: Cover the skillet and let the noodles cook for 7-8 minutes until they are al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: While the noodles cook, melt the butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until softened and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Combine Noodles and Sauce: Once the noodles are tender, stir in the garlic butter mixture and the grated Parmesan cheese if using. Toss everything together to coat the noodles in a rich, buttery flavor.
Slice and Arrange Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and arrange them over the buttered noodles in the skillet or on serving plates.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy a comforting, hearty meal.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts briefly in olive oil and spices before cooking.
If you prefer, use homemade chicken broth for richer taste.
Parmesan cheese is optional but highly recommended for a creamy, cheesy dimension.
Use fresh parsley for garnish to add a fresh herbal note and visual appeal.
Egg noodles can be substituted with other pasta types like fettuccine or penne if preferred.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Pan-frying and simmering
Cuisine: American