Savory One-Pan Chicken and Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe

Cozy Savory One-Pan Chicken and Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe

My kitchen always buzzes with excitement when I discover a quick one-pan chicken and creamy buttered noodles solution that saves time and dishes.

Weeknight cooking demands smart strategies that don’t compromise flavor.

Juggling work, family, and meal prep can feel overwhelming, but this recipe changes everything.

Comfort meets convenience in a single skillet where tender chicken nestles among silky, rich noodles.

Every bite promises a perfect balance of protein and carbohydrate goodness.

Minimal cleanup means maximum relaxation after dinner.

I promise this meal will become your new weeknight warrior that makes everyone at the table smile.

Storing One-Pan Chicken and Buttered Noodles

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Place cooled chicken and noodles in freezer-safe containers, sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for maximum 2 months.
  • Warm refrigerated leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent drying out. Stir gently until heated thoroughly.
  • Reheat individual portions in microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to maintain sauce's creamy texture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute warmth evenly.

Best Additions to Creamy Buttered Noodles

  • Elevate Comfort Flavors: Pair this creamy chicken and noodle dish with crisp, refreshing white wines like Chardonnay that complement the buttery sauce.
  • Enhance Dining Experience: Select a light, herbaceous side salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the creamy noodles and cut through the dish's heaviness.
  • Complement Protein Profile: Serve roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts to add nutritional diversity and provide a subtle charred contrast to the smooth chicken and noodles.
  • Complete Meal Harmony: Add a crusty artisan bread to soak up the delicious Parmesan cream sauce, ensuring no flavorful remnants are left behind.

Chicken and Buttered Noodles in Other Tasty Ways

  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace egg noodles with gluten-free rice noodles or zucchini spirals. Use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free.
  • Low-Carb Version: Swap noodles with cauliflower rice or spaghetti squash. Reduce cream quantity and increase chicken portion for higher protein content.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Keep all other ingredients consistent with original recipe.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta like fettuccine, linguine, or even wide egg noodles. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.

  • Is it possible to make this dish healthier?

You can use whole wheat egg noodles, reduce the amount of butter and cream, or substitute with lower-fat alternatives like milk or half-and-half. Choose skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option.

  • What if I don't have Parmesan cheese?

You can replace Parmesan with other hard cheeses like romano, asiago, or even a sharp cheddar. If you don’t have any cheese, the dish will still be delicious with the creamy sauce.

  • Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can partially prepare by cooking chicken and sauce separately. Store components in the refrigerator and reheat gently when ready to serve, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

One-Pan Chicken and Noodles Is the Kind of Meal You’ll Make Twice a Week

  • Quick Weeknight Lifesaver: Streamline dinner preparation with this one-pan marvel that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
  • Family-Friendly Comfort: Creamy noodles and perfectly cooked chicken create a crowd-pleasing dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making mealtime stress-free and delicious.
  • Minimal Cleanup Champion: Using a single skillet eliminates multiple pots and pans, reducing kitchen mess and saving precious time on dishwashing after a busy day.
  • Customizable Culinary Canvas: Easily adapt the recipe by switching proteins, adding vegetables, or experimenting with different cheese variations to suit personal taste preferences.

Chicken & Buttered Noodles Skillet Ingredients

Chicken and Base:
  • Chicken Breasts: Protein-packed main ingredient, choose fresh and evenly sized for consistent cooking.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasoning to enhance chicken's natural flavor.
Noodle Components:
  • Egg Noodles: Soft, tender pasta that absorbs rich sauce, wide varieties work well.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds deep savory flavor and helps cook noodles, low-sodium recommended.
Sauce and Enrichment:
  • Heavy Cream, Butter: Creates luxurious, silky texture, use high-quality dairy for best results.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, salty cheese that melts beautifully and adds depth.
Aromatics and Finish:
  • Garlic: Provides intense, aromatic base flavor, fresh is preferable over pre-minced.
  • Fresh Parsley: Optional bright garnish that adds color and fresh herb note.
Additional Essentials:
  • Olive Oil: Used for initial chicken searing, choose extra virgin for best flavor.

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe Process

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over chicken breasts.

Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms and the meat is completely cooked through.

Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Awaken the Garlic

In the same skillet, drop in minced garlic and let it dance around for about 30 seconds.

The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that signals deliciousness is coming.

Step 3: Create the Magical Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking them together to create a luxurious base.

Add egg noodles to the skillet:
  • Chicken broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Egg noodles

Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for 8-10 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the noodles become perfectly tender.

Step 4: Boost the Creaminess

Lower the heat and introduce:
  • Butter
  • Parmesan cheese

Stir until the sauce transforms into a silky, rich coating that clings to every noodle.

Step 5: Reunite the Chicken

Gently place the cooked chicken back into the skillet.

Let it warm through, soaking up all the incredible flavors.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serve immediately while everything is warm and inviting.

Noodle Tips for One-Pan Chicken and Creamy Sauce

  • Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry spots.
  • Adjust the amount of chicken broth and cream to achieve your preferred sauce thickness, adding more liquid if it becomes too thick during cooking.
  • Stir egg noodles frequently while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure each strand is coated with the creamy sauce.
  • Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or oregano to enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.
  • Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or use gluten-free noodles to accommodate different dietary restrictions.
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Savory One-Pan Chicken and Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe

Savory One-Pan Chicken and Creamy Buttered Noodles Recipe


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4.7 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Comforting “savory one-pan chicken and creamy buttered noodles” blend Italian-inspired flavors with simple home cooking techniques. Hearty chicken nestles among silky noodles, creating a quick weeknight dinner perfect for hungry families seeking delicious, minimal-cleanup meals.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Dairy and Cream:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pantry and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) egg noodles
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Warm a spacious skillet over medium heat, coating the surface with olive oil.
  2. Generously season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot skillet.
  3. Cook chicken for approximately 6 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms and internal temperature reaches safe cooking point.
  4. Transfer cooked chicken to a separate plate, keeping it warm and juicy.
  5. Introduce minced garlic to the same skillet, allowing it to release its aromatic essence for roughly 30 seconds.
  6. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, whisking them together to create a smooth, unified liquid base.
  7. Add egg noodles directly into the creamy mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  8. Cover the skillet and allow noodles to simmer for 8-10 minutes, gently stirring periodically to prevent sticking.
  9. Once noodles reach tender perfection, reduce heat to low.
  10. Incorporate butter and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce transforms into a luxuriously creamy consistency.
  11. Carefully return chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the rich, velvety noodle mixture.
  12. Let the chicken warm through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  13. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a vibrant garnish.
  14. Serve immediately while the dish remains warm and inviting.

Notes

  • Customize chicken thickness by gently pounding breasts to ensure even cooking and prevent dry edges.
  • Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, adjusting sauce consistency with extra broth if needed.
  • Choose whole wheat egg noodles to boost nutritional value and add nutty undertones to the dish.
  • Keep leftover chicken and noodles separately to maintain optimal texture when reheating, using a splash of broth to revive moisture.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Katherine Pierce

Katherine Pierce

Recipe Curator & Food Educator

Expertise

  • Curating diverse recipe collections
  • Educating on global culinary traditions
  • Developing informative food content

Education

Boston University Metropolitan College
Certificate Program in the Culinary Arts
Focus: French and international cuisine techniques, Hands-on culinary training with industry professionals, Food industry insights and operations


Katherine grew up believing every dish has a story. She studied the art of food at Boston University and explored the history behind it. She loves pulling easy recipes from every corner of the world and putting them at your fingertips.
When Katherine’s not writing or testing new flavors, she’s teaching cooking classes, baking colorful mooncakes, or dreaming up new ways to mix old favorites with new twists.

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