One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This comforting recipe brings together tender chicken and delicious egg noodles in a buttery garlic sauce, all prepared in a single pan. Not only is it simple to make, but it also cuts down on cleanup time, making it a hassle-free dining option for families or anyone looking to whip up a satisfying meal quickly.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. First, it’s incredibly convenient; cooking everything in one pan means less mess and fewer dishes. Additionally, the simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. You can have a heartwarming meal ready in about 30 minutes, which is ideal when you’re short on time or energy after a long day.

Furthermore, the flavors in this dish are wonderfully comforting. The combination of garlic and butter with tender chicken and noodles is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even with picky eaters. Plus, with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top, you’ll elevate this dish from a simple dinner to a gourmet experience.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Creating this delightful dish is straightforward, requiring just a few steps that anyone can follow. Let’s break it down!

Ingredients

To prepare One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring they are coated evenly.
3. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan, cooking for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked and have a beautiful golden brown color. Once done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
4. In the same pan, add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
6. While the broth is heating, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly.
7. Combine the cooked noodles with the garlic butter mixture in the pan, stirring well to ensure the noodles are evenly coated.
8. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and serve them on top of the buttery noodles. For an extra touch, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the dish if desired.

Pro Tips for Success with One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Don’t Skimp on the Garlic: For a more robust flavor, feel free to add an extra clove of garlic. Garlic not only enhances the taste but also adds wonderful aroma to the dish.
• Rest Your Chicken: After cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, making the chicken more moist and flavorful when served.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: In a pinch, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Just shred it and toss it into the noodle mixture. This saves time and still delivers great flavor.
• Experiment with Pasta Shapes: While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or linguine for a twist on the original dish.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you like more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.

Flavor Variations for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

1. Lemon Garlic Twist: Add the juice of half a lemon and some zest when mixing the broth and noodles. This will give the dish a refreshing citrus flavor.
2. Veggie Add-Ins: Sauté some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers along with the garlic for added nutrients and color.
3. Creamy Version: Stir in a small amount of heavy cream or sour cream with the broth for a richer, creamier sauce.
4. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the garlic mixture.
5. Herbed Chicken: Change the seasoning to fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of Italian seasoning for a different aromatic profile.

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles can be enjoyed on its own, but for a complete meal, consider serving it with:

• Steamed Vegetables: A side of broccoli, green beans, or carrots can complement the dish beautifully and provide a healthy balance to the meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the noodles.
• Garlic Bread: If you’re a fan of all things garlic, crusty garlic bread is a fantastic addition to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
• Sautéed Spinach: A quick sauté of spinach with olive oil and garlic makes a nutritious and tasty side dish that pairs well with the chicken.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely since it’s so delicious), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the dish.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, although the noodles may become a bit soft upon thawing. Place cooked, cooled noodles and chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and use within three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Value |
|——————|————–|
| Calories | 400 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 800mg |

FAQ About One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat options. Just be mindful of the cooking time based on the type of pasta used.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a great choice for meal prep. You can prepare the dish in advance and portion it into individual servings. Just remember to store it in the fridge or freezer in airtight containers to keep it fresh.

Can I make this dish without chicken?

Definitely! You can easily replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or lentils to create a vegetarian version. If using tofu, press it to remove excess moisture before cooking and season it as you would the chicken for added flavor.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To boost the nutrition of this dish, consider adding more vegetables such as peas, broccoli, or spinach. You can also use whole grain noodles for extra fiber, or reduce the amount of butter used in the recipe.

What can I do if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can create your own blend using equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Alternatively, any dried herbs you enjoy can be used, like rosemary or parsley.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that everyone can enjoy. It’s easy, quick, and requires minimal cleanup, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving this for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, you won’t be disappointed by the flavors. Give it a try, and you might just find a new favorite in your cooking repertoire!

Print