There’s something truly magical about a one-pan meal—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and a dish that comes together effortlessly. If you’re craving a comforting, creamy pasta dish with perfectly seasoned chicken, this One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is about to become your new go-to recipe.
I love meals that feel indulgent but don’t require a sink full of dishes afterward. This recipe delivers just that. Tender chicken is pan-seared to perfection, then nestled atop buttery, garlicky egg noodles cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. And the best part? Everything cooks in a single skillet, making this dish both weeknight-friendly and impressively delicious.
Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing? Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Seasoning the Chicken
The secret to flavorful chicken starts with the seasoning. You don’t need anything fancy—just a few simple spices that bring out the best in each bite.
You’ll need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
Start by patting the chicken dry with a paper towel. This small step helps the seasoning stick better and ensures you get that beautiful golden-brown sear. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This spice blend adds just the right amount of warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
A perfectly cooked chicken breast is juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside, and achieving that texture is easier than you think.
Here’s what to do:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes on the first side. This allows a beautiful crust to form.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. Don’t cut into it yet! Letting it rest will keep the juices locked in.
Now that the chicken is cooked, it’s time to turn our attention to the real star of the show—those creamy, buttery noodles.
Step 3: Preparing the Base for the Noodles
One of the best things about this dish is that the noodles cook directly in the sauce. That means they absorb all the delicious flavors from the broth, butter, and seasonings—giving you rich, velvety pasta without needing a separate pot.
In the same skillet, add:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Whisk everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. The combination of chicken broth and milk creates the perfect balance between savory and creamy, while the butter adds that signature silky texture.
Step 4: Cooking the Noodles
Now that the base of the sauce is simmering in the skillet, it’s time to add the noodles. The beauty of this method is that the pasta absorbs all the incredible flavors from the broth, milk, and seasonings while cooking—resulting in an ultra-creamy, buttery texture without needing extra pots or strainers.
Here’s what to do:
- Stir in 8 ounces of egg noodles, making sure they’re evenly distributed in the liquid.
- Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and let the noodles cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- As they cook, you’ll notice the liquid slowly reducing and thickening into a velvety sauce. If needed, you can add a splash of extra broth or milk to adjust the consistency.
At this point, your kitchen is going to smell absolutely amazing. The combination of garlic, butter, and chicken broth creates the ultimate cozy aroma that makes this dish feel like a hug in a bowl.
Step 5: Adding the Parmesan for Creaminess
No creamy pasta is complete without a little cheese, and Parmesan is the perfect choice for adding both richness and a slightly nutty flavor.
Here’s how to finish the sauce:
- Lower the heat to prevent the cheese from clumping.
- Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a pinch more salt or black pepper to suit your preference.
By this point, the noodles should be coated in a luscious, buttery, garlicky sauce that clings to each strand. It’s creamy but not overly heavy, making it the perfect match for our juicy, golden-brown chicken.
Step 6: Bringing It All Together
Now comes the fun part—combining everything into a dish that looks just as good as it tastes.
Final steps:
- Take the cooked chicken breasts and slice them into thin strips. The resting time will have locked in all the juices, making the chicken tender and flavorful.
- Place the sliced chicken on top of the creamy noodles. The warmth from the pasta will help bring everything together beautifully.
- If you want to add a pop of freshness, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley over the top. It’s an optional step, but it adds a nice contrast to the rich, buttery sauce.
And just like that, dinner is ready! A single pan, a handful of ingredients, and a meal that feels like something straight out of your favorite restaurant.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
This dish is already packed with flavor, but if you want to customize it, here are a few ideas:
- Add veggies: Stir in baby spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for an extra boost of nutrition.
- Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat.
- Swap the protein: Try this recipe with shrimp or sliced sausage for a different twist.
- Use a different cheese: Parmesan is classic, but Asiago or Gruyère can add a unique depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whenever I share this recipe, I always get a few common questions. Here are some helpful answers to make sure your One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles turns out perfect every time!
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While egg noodles work best for their light and tender texture, you can use other types of pasta like fettuccine, penne, or even rotini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, and you might need to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly.
2. What if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much before the noodles are fully cooked, simply add a little more chicken broth or milk, about ¼ cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
3. How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part—if the juices run clear and there’s no pink, it’s done.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce.
5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the cooking time and adjust the liquid as needed, since different gluten-free pastas absorb liquid differently.
6. What can I serve with this dish?
This meal is already hearty on its own, but if you want to round it out, serve it with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for an extra comforting touch.
7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts, simply slice or shred them and add them to the pasta at the end, letting them warm through in the sauce for a few minutes.
Final Thoughts
And that’s it! A creamy, flavorful, one-pan meal that’s easy to make and even easier to clean up. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want a comforting dinner after a long day, this One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is sure to hit the spot.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can keep it simple, dress it up with extra ingredients, or make it your own with different cheeses and seasonings. No matter how you tweak it, one thing is guaranteed—it’s going to be delicious.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment with any variations you tried, and don’t forget to share this with friends and family who love easy, satisfying meals. Happy cooking!
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One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
This one-pan dish is perfect for a quick and comforting meal! Juicy, seasoned chicken is cooked to perfection and paired with buttery, creamy noodles—all made in one pan for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
For the noodles:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2️⃣ Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Cook the noodles: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, whole milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4️⃣ Add the noodles: Stir in the egg noodles and cook uncovered for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5️⃣ Finish the dish: Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6️⃣ Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the creamy noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
✔️ One-pan convenience: Cooking everything in one skillet allows the noodles to absorb all the flavors from the chicken.
✔️ Creamier sauce? Add an extra ¼ cup of milk or a splash of heavy cream at the end.
✔️ Add veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition.
Would you like a variation with a different protein or spice profile? 😊
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3
