After a long day, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner that leaves behind a mountain of dishes. Enter the One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles—a dish that proves delicious food doesn’t have to mean hard work.
This recipe combines juicy, golden-browned chicken with rich, garlicky buttered noodles, all cooked in a single skillet. The result? A comforting, flavor-packed meal that comes together in less than 30 minutes and leaves you with only one pan to clean.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing a romantic dinner for two, or simply craving a cozy comfort meal, this one-pan wonder checks every box. It’s affordable, adaptable, beginner-friendly, and tastes like it came straight out of a restaurant kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
This recipe is a dream for anyone who loves quick, comforting meals that feel special but require minimal effort. Here’s why this dish will earn a permanent spot in your weekly dinner rotation:
- 🕒 Ready in just 30 minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- 🍽️ One skillet = less cleanup: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans.
- 👨🍳 Beginner-friendly: Clear, simple steps anyone can follow.
- 💛 Comforting flavor: Garlic, butter, and tender chicken are an unbeatable trio.
- 🧈 Rich but balanced: Buttery noodles without feeling heavy or greasy.
- 🌿 Customizable: Add veggies, herbs, or different proteins to make it your own.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Cuisine | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings | American | Easy |
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – lean, juicy, and cooks fast.
- 8 ounces egg noodles – the base of this recipe; they absorb all the buttery flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – the star ingredient that gives the noodles their richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – adds deep flavor and aroma.
- 2 cups chicken broth – helps cook the noodles while infusing them with flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – brings a subtle herby depth.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – essential for balance.
- Fresh parsley (optional) – for a bright, fresh finish.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
Want to make this dish your own? Try these creative twists:
- 🧀 Creamy Version: Add ¼ cup of heavy cream and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
- 🥦 Veggie Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
- 🌶️ Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil.
- 🍋 Fresh Twist: Add lemon zest and juice for a bright, tangy touch.
- 🐔 Protein Swap: Replace chicken with turkey, shrimp, or tofu for variation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of thyme. Proper seasoning at this stage ensures every bite of chicken is flavorful and delicious.
💡 Pro Tip: For extra tenderness, lightly pound the chicken to an even thickness before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and stay juicy inside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep it warm.
✅ The key to perfectly seared chicken: Don’t move it too often. Let it sit and form a golden crust.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Using the same skillet (don’t clean it—those browned bits are flavor gold!), reduce the heat slightly and add 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
The aroma of sizzling garlic in butter sets the tone for the entire dish—rich, cozy, and irresistible.
Step 4: Add Broth and Noodles
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
Add 8 ounces of egg noodles directly into the skillet. Stir occasionally as the noodles cook for about 8–10 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavorful broth and butter.
💡 Tip: Keep the lid slightly ajar while simmering to prevent overboiling and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Reintroduce the Chicken
Once the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Nestle each piece among the noodles so they soak up the sauce.
Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for an elegant finish.
Serve immediately while hot and buttery, with the chicken sliced or served whole over the noodles.
How to Serve One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can elevate it with a few thoughtful pairings:
🥗 Fresh Salad Pairings
- Classic Caesar Salad
- Mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette
- Cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing
🍞 Bread Side Ideas
- Garlic bread or buttered toast
- Warm dinner rolls
- Herbed focaccia
🍷 Drink Pairings
- A crisp white wine (like Pinot Grigio)
- Sparkling water with lemon slices
- Light iced tea for a refreshing touch
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Room-Temperature Chicken: Cold chicken straight from the fridge can cook unevenly. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before searing.
- Butter Quality Matters: Use unsalted, high-quality butter—it makes the sauce silky and rich.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
- Add Vegetables Wisely: Harder vegetables like carrots or broccoli should be added earlier; leafy greens like spinach go in at the end.
- Deglaze with Wine: For gourmet flair, add a splash of white wine after cooking the garlic to lift the fond (browned bits).
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of herbs or lemon zest brightens the heavy buttery flavor.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
This recipe is ideal for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
To Store:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
To Reheat:
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the noodles moist.
- For microwave reheating, cover and heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals.
To Freeze:
- Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Dietary Swaps
Want to adapt this dish for different dietary needs? Here’s how:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free egg noodles or rice noodles.
- Low-Fat: Use light butter or reduce the butter to 2 tablespoons.
- High-Protein: Add a handful of cooked chickpeas or diced turkey.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms or firm tofu.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
This meal provides a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats—making it perfect for those maintaining an active lifestyle.
Flavor Profile & Texture
This dish is pure comfort in a bowl. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the noodles are soft, buttery, and infused with garlic flavor. The thyme adds subtle earthiness, and the parsley provides a bright, fresh finish.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug after a long day—simple, delicious, and deeply satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on it—dry chicken can ruin the dish’s balance.
- Skipping the Sear: That golden crust adds flavor; don’t rush this step.
- Using Too Much Broth: The noodles should absorb most of the liquid; don’t drown them.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Taste as you go—seasoning brings the dish to life.
- Burning Garlic: Garlic burns fast; sauté only until fragrant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully—they’re juicier and even more flavorful.
2. How can I make this dish creamier?
Add a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese near the end of cooking.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Cook everything as directed, then store in the fridge. Reheat with a little broth to refresh the noodles.
4. What other herbs work well in this dish?
Rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning all make great alternatives to thyme.
5. Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce to give it a kick.
6. What type of noodles work best?
Egg noodles are classic, but fettuccine or linguine also hold up beautifully.
7. Can I double this recipe for a large family?
Yes! Just use a bigger skillet and increase broth and butter proportionally.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal
- Starter: A light vegetable soup or garlic breadsticks.
- Main: One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles.
- Dessert: Classic Vanilla Pudding or Mini Lemon Tarts.
- Drink: Lemon iced tea or crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
These combinations make a balanced, restaurant-quality meal that feels special but takes minimal time.
Chef’s Note: The Secret Ingredient Is Simplicity
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t rely on complicated ingredients or fancy techniques—just a few quality components cooked with care. The butter melts into the noodles, the garlic infuses every bite, and the chicken soaks up all the flavor.
It’s proof that the best comfort food is made with ordinary ingredients, cooked with a little love.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- [Scallion Chicken Skillet – Quick Weeknight Dinner]
- [Cheesy Beef and Noodles Casserole – Family Favorite]
- [Garlic Herb Roasted Pork – Juicy and Flavorful]
- [Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta – 25-Minute Meal]
- [Bang Bang Broccoli Salad – Crunchy & Spicy Delight]
Conclusion
If you’re searching for a comforting, quick, and satisfying dinner that’s packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the answer.
With tender chicken, perfectly seasoned noodles, and that irresistible buttery-garlic sauce, this dish will quickly become one of your most-requested weeknight meals.
