Why This One-Pan Chicken Dish is Perfect for Weeknights
Looking for a hassle-free dinner that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor? This One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles recipe is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. Juicy, golden chicken breasts combined with tender egg noodles bathed in a rich, creamy sauce create a dish that’s comforting, elegant, and easy to make — all in a single skillet. Forget juggling multiple pots and pans: this recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste. It’s versatile, too — feel free to add seasonal vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color. Whether cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this one-pan meal delivers rich, restaurant-quality flavors in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz (about 225 g) egg noodles
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in the skillet. Cook each side for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Keeping the chicken warm allows you to layer the flavors into the noodles and sauce without overcooking the meat.
Step 2 – Prepare the Creamy Base
In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle simmer — this is the base that will make your noodles rich and flavorful.
Step 3 – Cook the Noodles
Stir in the egg noodles, making sure they’re submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the noodles cook for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, ensuring each noodle soaks up the creamy, savory sauce.
Step 4 – Combine Everything
Once the noodles are perfectly cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add butter and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, letting them heat through for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5 – Serve and Garnish
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the dish warm, making sure to spoon plenty of the creamy sauce over the chicken and noodles. Each bite is a comforting mix of tender chicken, rich sauce, and buttery noodles — the perfect weeknight indulgence.
Nutritional Information
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Each serving contains:
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 23 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
It’s a balanced meal with plenty of protein, satisfying fats, and comforting carbs — ideal for both family dinners and solo meals.
Tips & Variations
- Add Vegetables: Toss in peas, spinach, or sliced mushrooms during the noodle cooking stage for extra nutrition and color.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella for an even creamier texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the cream sauce for subtle heat.
- Make Ahead: Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store in the fridge and reheat before adding noodles for a quick dinner.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a light green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Pair with crusty garlic bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
- Perfect for family dinners, date nights at home, or weeknight meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The magic of this recipe is in its simplicity and flavor. Juicy chicken, rich buttered noodles, and a creamy sauce come together in one pan, making it both easy to cook and hard to resist. It’s comfort food at its finest — satisfying, elegant, and perfect for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy, and buttery dishes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a quick, delicious, and comforting meal, look no further than One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and a recipe that can easily be adapted to your family’s tastes make this a go-to weeknight favorite.
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