If you’ve ever wished for a comforting dinner that comes together quickly yet tastes like something you’d order at a cozy bistro, One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is about to become a new favorite. This dish has everything you want from a weeknight meal: tender golden chicken, silky noodles bathed in a garlicky butter sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan that brings it all home. With minimal prep and just one pan, it’s the answer to busy evenings—without sacrificing any of the flavor or satisfaction.

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is its simplicity. Each ingredient isn’t just a building block but a star in its own right, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that make every bite memorable.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless for quick cooking and tender slices that soak up the buttery sauce.
Olive oil: Just a touch is all you need to create a golden crust and keep everything luscious.
Garlic powder: Adds a mellow, savory depth to the chicken’s seasoning.
Onion powder: Balances out the flavors for that classic homemade vibe.
Paprika: Gives a warm, subtle smokiness plus a hint of gorgeous color on the chicken.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the wonderful notes in each ingredient.
Chicken broth: Bathes the noodles in savory richness and keeps everything moist and flavorful.
Egg noodles: Perfectly tender with a bit of chew, these noodles drink up the buttered sauce beautifully.
Unsalted butter: Silky and rich—this is where that “buttered” magic happens!
Fresh garlic: Sautéed for just the right punch of aroma and flavor in the finished sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a touch of salty, nutty umami—highly recommended for cheese lovers.
Fresh parsley (optional): A simple sprinkle at the end brightens the whole dish and adds a burst of color.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Before you even turn on the stove, mix those wonderful spices—garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, plus a good pinch of salt and pepper—and sprinkle them generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. This quick step guarantees flavorful bites from beginning to end, setting the stage for the magic to come.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then lay those seasoned chicken breasts right in. Let them sizzle for about 5 to 6 minutes per side—don’t nudge them around too much! That hands-off time allows a golden crust to develop, sealing in the juices. Once they’re just cooked through, transfer them to a plate to rest while you move on.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles in Broth

Now, without cleaning the pan (all those tasty browned bits add flavor), pour in the chicken broth. Bring it up to a simmer and stir in the egg noodles. Cover the pan and let them gently cook for 7 to 8 minutes. They’ll go from uncooked to gorgeously al dente, absorbing the savory broth as they go, with just a little liquid left to create a sauce later.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

While the noodles soak up that rich broth, melt the unsalted butter in a small pan and sauté your garlic until you can smell its toasty fragrance, about a minute or two. This step is quick but makes the difference between good and unforgettable noodles.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Add the fragrant butter and garlic to the skillet with the noodles, along with the Parmesan if you’re using it. Stir it all together to coat every strand in luscious, buttery goodness. It’s simple, but this swirl of flavors truly defines One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Slice your rested chicken breasts into beautiful strips and fan them on top of your glorious noodle nest. Finish with a shower of fresh parsley if you like, and serve immediately while everything is still warm and inviting.

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Garnishes

A little extra freshness takes this dish over the top. A handful of chopped fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. For cheese enthusiasts, another sprinkle of grated Parmesan brings an extra flourish of flavor—there are no wrong choices here!

Side Dishes

Although One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is hearty and satisfying on its own, it’s lovely alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some steamed green vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. The freshness of the sides balances the comfort of the main dish perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

This dish shines when served family-style: bring your skillet right to the table so guests can serve themselves. You can also serve individual portions in shallow bowls, with chicken arranged artfully over a twirl of noodles for that special bistro feel. Either way, don’t forget a lemon wedge on the side—it adds a little zing if desired!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days. The noodles may continue to absorb the sauce, so adding a splash of broth or water when reheating is a good idea.

Freezing

For the best texture, it’s the chicken that freezes beautifully here; slice and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. The noodles can be frozen, too, but may soften a bit on reheating. To freeze the full dish together, simply let everything cool, freeze in portions, and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm leftovers on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a couple splashes of chicken broth or water to loosen things up. Alternatively, microwave individual servings in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid dry spots. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of parsley or Parmesan to revive those flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a delicious and juicy alternative. Adjust the cook time as needed since they may require a few extra minutes, but everything else remains the same.

Is there a gluten-free option for noodles?

Yes, feel free to substitute your favorite gluten-free egg noodles or even gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it can vary, and use the same method with the broth for great results.

Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?

Definitely. Parmesan adds a lovely savory kick, but One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is plenty flavorful without it. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or simply omit altogether.

What’s the best skillet to use for this recipe?

Any large, deep-sided skillet will work, but nonstick or stainless steel pans are easiest for cooking the chicken to golden perfection and simmering the noodles evenly. Just make sure the pan has a snug-fitting lid!

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Of course! Stir in quick-cooking veggies like peas, spinach, or steamed broccoli during the last few minutes of noodle cooking for an extra pop of color and nutrition. This recipe is flexible and easy to customize.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving the kind of meal that delivers big comfort with very little cleanup, it’s time to give One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles a try. It’s soulful, satisfying, and truly welcoming, every time. Let it become your new go-to whenever you want to cook something special without spending hours in the kitchen!