One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Posted on January 19, 2026

Easy One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

When you think of easy weeknight dinners, what comes to mind? Maybe your childhood favorite, a warm bowl of pasta, or perhaps a cozy chicken dish that wraps you in a big hug of flavor. For me, it’s definitely One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. I stumbled upon this recipe in a whirlwind of life, multitasking between work, family, and much-belated self-care. Honestly, I was looking for something that felt indulgent but also comforting without the fuss of a million pans to wash. This dish became my go-to, especially on those chilly evenings when the clouds seem to linger just a bit too long.

I remember the first time I tried making it. I had chopped garlic everywhere, a slight panic flecked on my forehead because I misread the measurement, thinking I could just toss in a few extra cloves for flavor. Spoiler alert: I really should’ve just stuck to the plan! The kitchen smelled divine, though, a fragrant escape from the day’s chaos. I threw in a couple of extra veggies I had lying around — and let’s be real, I may have added a splash of soy sauce because, well, I’m a rebel like that. To be fair, it was a lovely mess, and while I didn’t replicate the recipe exactly, it turned into a beautiful evolution of flavor. The results? A dish that felt like home, filled with laughter, a few happy dance moments, and lots of spoonfuls of joy.

As you’re stirring these simple ingredients, you create something magical that fills the air with warmth and makes you feel like a culinary genius – even when you drop half a cup of noodles on the floor, oops! This dish matters to me because it symbolizes the essence of home-cooked meals, those pockets of time where you can just breathe and enjoy eating together.

So, if you’re in the mood for a meal that’s quick, budget-friendly, and gives off serious comfort vibes, let’s dive into this delightful journey of One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to enjoy your meal. Trust me; your future self will thank you later!
Picky-Eater Approved: It’s hard to go wrong with chicken and buttery noodles. If you have little ones or picky adults in your household, they’ll gobble this up and ask for seconds.
Flavorful Comfort: The garlic, buttery noodles, and savory chicken broth intertwine perfectly, creating a cozy palate that feels like a warm embrace.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish keeps well, so you can whip up a batch and store some for quick lunches later. That means you can have a healthy comfort food option ready to go during the week.
High Protein Goodness: With chicken breasts as the star ingredient, you’re not only enjoying a delightful meal but also packing in the protein, which is perfect for those following a protein meal plan or looking for high protein meals.
Versatile Base: You can throw in any veggies! Spinach, broccoli, whatever you have in the fridge; it all works beautifully, making it a fantastic canvas for seasonal flavors.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

This dish is more than just a meal; it has an emotional resonance that goes beyond flavors. The simplicity of cooking with bright garlic and fresh parsley brings a certain freshness to the table. Plus, the one-pan aspect isn’t just a lazy cheat; it embodies the busy lives we lead, where sitting down to share a meal still matters — a lot!

Every bite of the tender chicken mingling with perfectly cooked egg noodles is like a nostalgic journey. It’s inspired by those moments spent in the kitchen with family, where laughter meets sizzling sounds, and stories are told around the stove. And the transformative power of butter? Don’t even get me started! It elevates ordinary to extraordinary.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs): Lean and easy to cook, chicken is the perfect protein-packed base for this meal. I like to go for organic chicken breasts when possible; they seem to be juicier!
8 oz egg noodles: Slightly chewy and delicious, egg noodles soak up the broth beautifully, taking on all those flavors.
4 tbsp real butter: Because we’re not skimping on flavor here! Butter lends richness that coats the noodles like a warm hug.
4 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic powerhouse of this recipe. And more is always merrier, right? Just remember not to overdo it like I did my first time!
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The heart of this dish! Using low-sodium broth keeps it flavorful without being too salty. Homemade broth is great if you have it; otherwise, store-bought does the trick just fine.
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: This bright, fresh herb not only adds color but also a pop of flavor that ties everything together. I like to use Italian flat-leaf parsley for its robust flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential ingredients that amplify all your flavors. Seriously, don’t skip this part; seasoning is key!

Ingredient Tips

Choose high-quality ingredients whenever possible! They make a difference, especially in simple dishes where every flavor shines through.
Don’t Do This: Avoid using margarine or any butter substitutes — they just don’t give that lovely, rich flavor!
Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or even tofu if you’re going plant-based. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Prep the Ingredients: Wash your chicken breasts and pat them dry. Mince the garlic, chop your parsley, and keep it all handy. If you want to toss in any extra veggies, like broccoli or peas, chop them up now too.
Sear the Chicken: Grab that large skillet of yours (the one that’s seen better days). Melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. As it sizzles, place the chicken breasts in the pan; hear that lovely sizzle? It’s music to my ears! Sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper — I’m all about that seasoning life.
Sauté the Garlic: Once the chicken is beautifully seared, toss in your minced garlic and let it sauté for about a minute. You want the kitchen to smell divine — that garlicky scent will clue you in that you’re on the right track!
Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Note: Try not to lean too close unless you enjoy a steamy face! The bubbling sounds create a comforting rhythm, like a gentle hug from the pot.
Cook the Noodles: Toss in those egg noodles, making sure they’re submerged in the broth. Now, let’s simmer! Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, just until the noodles are al dente. Give them a stir occasionally to stop them from sticking together. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender but still have a nice bite to them.
Finishing Touches: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and chopped parsley. This final toss adds that glossy, mouthwatering quality I live for. I often find myself taking a little taste test here — quality control, right?
Serve and Enjoy!: Dish it up into bowls (or plates, if you’re fancy). Don’t forget a sprinkle of parsley on top for freshness. It’s time to take in that beautiful aroma, grab a fork or spoon, and enjoy each bite!

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Tips for Best Results

Don’t Rush the Sear: Make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken to get that desired golden-brown crust. It makes a difference in flavor and texture!
Keep a Close Eye on the Noodles: Every brand cooks a little differently, so check a minute before the time is up to ensure they don’t overcook.
Experiment Freely: Don’t be shy about throwing in your favorite veggies or experimenting with spices! Feeling adventurous? A dash of red pepper flakes could add just the right kick!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Vegetarian/Vegan Twist: Opt for chickpeas or a plant-based chicken substitute! You could even double the vegetables for a satisfying experience without the protein.
Seasonal Ingredients: In the colder months, I love adding in some spinach towards the end, and during summer, fresh zucchini can be a game-changer!
Flavor Enhancements: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for an unexpected depth of flavor.

Directions

Prep your ingredients by chopping garlic and any desired vegetables.
Sear chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tbsp of butter until golden brown (about 5 minutes per side). Season with salt and pepper.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Stir in egg noodles, simmer for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
Remove from heat; stir in remaining butter and sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

To make it a complete meal, pair your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles with a simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice. For drinks, a light white wine or even some sparkling water with a slice of lemon does the trick. And if you’re feeling a little indulgent? A buttery piece of garlic bread on the side can elevate your feast to another level!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you end up with leftovers (which isn’t too common around my house), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, adding a splash of broth or a bit of water can keep the noodles from drying out. You can either use the microwave or reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through — just stir occasionally.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat when you need it. Just prepare everything except for adding the noodles, which you could store in a separate container if you want to freeze it. Freeze leftover noodle and chicken in an airtight container for up to a month. Just remember that the noodles might be a tad softer when reheated from frozen.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: Keep a close watch to avoid dry chicken. It should be firm and juicy inside.
Ignoring the Noodles: Those babies can stick together if you leave them unattended, so stir occasionally.
Not Tasting: Trust me on this one — always taste during the process to adjust seasoning. It’s the best way to ensure you nail the flavors!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use whole wheat noodles instead?
Absolutely! Just be mindful that they may require a little extra cooking time.

Can I make this without broth?
While it’s best with broth, you can use water, but the flavor will be less rich. Consider adding a stock cube for enhanced flavor!

Can I cook the chicken in advance?
Yes, you can cook and slice the chicken ahead of time. Just reheat it slightly before mixing it in with the noodles!

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife and cutting board
Airtight containers for leftovers

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is more than just a dish; it’s a kitchen adventure filled with delightful flavors and heartwarming moments. This recipe has turned into a family favorite for a reason — it’s cozy, easy to whip up, and truly feels like a warm embrace with every bite. I encourage you to give it a try and see how easy it can be to create something special out of everyday ingredients.

Don’t forget to share your version of this recipe, or let me know how it turned out for you! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!