Name: One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups chicken broth; 8 ounces egg noodles; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug and comes together with minimal fuss, you absolutely must try this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. It’s such a comforting dish where tender, seasoned chicken breasts sit atop perfectly cooked egg noodles bathed in rich, garlicky butter and chicken broth. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—everything cooks in one pan, locking in flavor and making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this dish delivers satisfying textures and savory delight every single time.

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, the ingredient list might look simple, but each component plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the spices that make the chicken sing to the creamy butter that elevates the noodles, these ingredients combine for a meal that’s anything but basic.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect tender protein, easy to cook evenly in a skillet.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden sear on the chicken.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle aromatic warmth to the chicken seasoning.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a gentle sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky note and vibrant color.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors throughout.
4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the noodles and keeps them moist.
8 ounces egg noodles: Soft yet firm, these noodles soak up the broth beautifully.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the luscious butter sauce that envelops the noodles.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fresh, fragrant punch to the butter sauce.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, savory finish that makes every bite extra special.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brings a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness to the dish.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, plus salt and pepper. This simple mix builds a robust flavor foundation that will carry through the dish, making every bite deliciously well-rounded.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add your seasoned chicken breasts and cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This sear not only locks in juices but creates that crave-worthy crisp exterior. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t skip this step as it forms the base for the rest of your one-pan meal.

Step 3: Simmer the Noodles

In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken—these will intensify the flavor of your broth. Add the egg noodles next, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the pan and let the noodles cook for about 7 to 8 minutes until they are perfectly al dente and most of the broth has soaked in. This step is magic—you’re building those tender, infused noodles that will soak up the buttery garlicky goodness.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the noodles are cooking, it’s time to melt your butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. This garlic butter mixture will add a luscious creaminess and gentle pungency to the dish, elevating your noodles to restaurant-quality indulgence.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Once the noodles are tender, stir the garlic butter sauce into the skillet, tossing everything together with the Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. This is the moment everything comes together—the noodles become glossy and flavorful, and the chicken takes its rightful place sliced on top. Your one-pan masterpiece is ready for the table!

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top to bring a fresh, vibrant color that contrasts beautifully with the warm tones of the chicken and noodles. If you love a bit of extra cheesy indulgence, an additional dusting of Parmesan right before serving makes for a decadent finish.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a standalone comfort meal, but if you want to round it out, consider a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette or some steamed green beans. A side of roasted vegetables also pairs wonderfully, adding variety in texture and a boost of nutrients without overwhelming the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual family dinners, serve this dish right from the skillet for an inviting and communal feel. If you’re preparing a slightly fancy dinner, plate the noodles neatly, slice the chicken thinly, and fan it out atop the noodles. Finish with a sprig of parsley and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for visual elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Use an airtight container to store leftover One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles in the fridge, where it will keep well for up to three days. Be sure to refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and safety.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Keep in mind the noodles may absorb more liquid upon freezing and thawing, so freezing is ideal if you plan to reheat with care.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the noodles’ moisture. Stir frequently to ensure an even heat and to prevent sticking. Microwaving works too—just cover loosely and add a little liquid before heating to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs will bring extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Is it okay to use dried noodles other than egg noodles?

Yes, but cooking times will vary. Egg noodles soften quickly and absorb broth well, making them ideal. If you use other pastas, keep an eye on them so they don’t become mushy.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Definitely! Skip the butter and Parmesan or replace them with dairy-free alternatives like olive oil and nutritional yeast for a similar richness and flavor boost.

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

Marinating your chicken breasts for 30 minutes beforehand in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs adds extra depth. Also, don’t skimp on seasoning before searing.

What’s the best way to know when the noodles are done?

Check the noodles after about 7 minutes—they should be tender but still have a slight bite. They will continue to soften slightly after you stir in the butter, so avoid overcooking during simmering.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is an absolute keeper for any crisp evening or when you crave a straightforward, soul-satisfying dinner. It’s the kind of dish that feels special yet is so easy to make, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become your go-to for a comforting homemade meal that delights every time.

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 26 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A simple and delicious one-pan chicken with buttered egg noodles, seasoned with garlic, onion, and paprika, then topped with a fragrant garlic butter sauce and optional Parmesan cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Instructions

Season the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Simmer noodles: In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add egg noodles and ensure they are fully submerged.
Cook noodles: Cover skillet and cook noodles for 7-8 minutes until al dente and most broth is absorbed.
Prepare garlic butter: While noodles cook, melt butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine noodles and sauce: Once noodles are cooked, add the garlic butter mixture to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese if using and toss until evenly coated.
Slice and serve: Slice cooked chicken breasts and arrange on top of noodles.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish and serve immediately for best flavor.

Notes

For a zestier flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free egg noodles or pasta alternatives.
Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice creamy texture and flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Sautéing and simmering in one pan
Cuisine: American