One-pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of tender chicken and buttery noodles coated in a rich, creamy sauce. This one-pan wonder is a lifesaver on busy nights, delivering big flavors with minimal cleanup.

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I first discovered this recipe when searching for an easy weeknight meal that didn’t require multiple pots and pans. The first time I made it, my family couldn’t believe how something so simple could taste so luxurious. Now, it’s a staple in our house whenever we crave something cozy and satisfying.

Why You'll Love This One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation. This dish is effortless, indulgent, and perfect for any occasion.

First, everything cooks in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. No extra pots or strainers—just a simple, streamlined process that saves time and effort.

It’s also quick. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, restaurant-quality meal ready to serve. Perfect for those nights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples, this recipe won’t break the bank. Simple ingredients come together to create an elevated dish that tastes far more expensive than it actually is.

Best of all, it’s versatile. Swap out the protein, add veggies, or switch up the pasta type—there are endless ways to customize this dish to fit your preferences and whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating its rich, creamy texture and deep flavor.

Chicken breasts are the perfect protein choice here. Sliced into bite-sized pieces, they cook quickly and stay tender in the creamy sauce. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

Egg noodles work best in this recipe due to their soft, velvety texture. They absorb the sauce beautifully without getting mushy. If you don’t have egg noodles, try fettuccine or even rotini for a slightly different feel.

Butter and heavy cream are what make this dish truly indulgent. The butter adds richness, while the heavy cream creates a velvety sauce that clings to every noodle. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, though the sauce will be less thick.

Chicken broth serves as the cooking liquid for the noodles and enhances the overall flavor. Using broth instead of water ensures every bite is packed with savory goodness.

A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end brings everything together with its nutty, salty depth. It melts into the sauce, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.

A large skillet with a lid is the only special equipment you need to make this recipe effortlessly.

How To Make This One-Pan Chicken With Creamy Buttered Noodles

Creating this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps for a perfect, creamy pasta every time.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt, then add the diced chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and let it melt. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the egg noodles and stir to ensure they are submerged. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the noodles cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, followed by the cooked chicken. Allow everything to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly.

Finally, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between to prevent the sauce from separating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some easy variations to try.

Swap the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu to switch up the protein. Each brings a unique flavor that works beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas for an extra boost of nutrition. Simply stir them in towards the end of cooking so they retain their texture and color.

Use different pasta shapes such as penne, linguine, or orzo if you don’t have egg noodles on hand. Each will give the dish a slightly different mouthfeel while still soaking up all that creamy goodness.

Make it extra cheesy by adding shredded mozzarella or Gruyère along with the Parmesan. This will create an even more indulgent and gooey texture.

For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or milk. It will still be creamy, but with a slight tang and fewer calories.

Experimenting with different ingredients can make this dish feel new every time you make it. No matter how you customize it, one thing remains the same—it’s always irresistibly delicious.

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