One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and hassle-free dinner option, one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles is the answer. This recipe offers the perfect combination of juicy chicken, rich buttery noodles, and creamy sauce, all cooked in a single pan to save time and clean-up effort. Whether you’re a busy parent or just need a fast, tasty meal, this dish will become your new go-to.

In this article, we’ll cover everything from how to make this recipe to ingredient options, cooking techniques, and tips for customization. You’ll also find answers to frequently asked questions about this popular dish.

What is One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles?

• Overview of the Dish
  One-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles is a simple and flavorful meal cooked entirely in one pot. It features tender chicken pieces, creamy butter-coated noodles, and a rich sauce that comes together in under an hour. The dish is perfect for anyone looking for an easy comfort meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Why One-Pan Recipes Are Popular
  • Convenience of cooking and clean-up
  • Saves time in preparation
  • Perfect for busy weeknights

Learn more about Easy Creamy Pasta Recipes

Ingredients for One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

• Essential Ingredients
  To create this delicious one-pan dish, you’ll need a mix of fresh, simple ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
  1. Chicken
     • Best Options: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs are recommended for tenderness and flavor.
     • Substitutions: You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option.
  2. Noodles
     • Type of Noodles: Egg noodles are commonly used due to their rich, buttery texture when cooked, but you can substitute with fettuccine, spaghetti, or even linguine.
     • Alternative Options: Whole wheat noodles or gluten-free noodles can work if needed.
  3. Butter
     • Unsalted butter works best to control the saltiness of the dish. It’s crucial for coating the noodles with a creamy, rich texture.
     • Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
  4. Cream
     • Heavy cream helps create a thick, rich sauce.
     • Substitutions: Half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter option, though it may affect the creaminess.
  5. Chicken Broth
     • Chicken broth serves as the base liquid to cook the noodles and chicken, infusing the dish with deep flavor.
     • Low-sodium broth is preferred to prevent the dish from being too salty.
  6. Garlic and Onion
     • These aromatic ingredients provide depth and complexity to the sauce.
  7. Seasonings and Herbs
     • Common choices include salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and parsley for garnish.
     • You can also add paprika or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Optional Add-ins
You can elevate the flavor and texture by adding extra ingredients:

• Vegetables: Broccoli, peas, mushrooms, or spinach work well.
• Cheese: Parmesan cheese can be stirred into the sauce or used as a topping.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy note to balance the richness of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

Making one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Prepare the Ingredients

• Dice the Chicken: Cut chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry to ensure proper browning.
• Chop Aromatics: Mince garlic and dice onions to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Measure Out Ingredients: Have your butter, cream, noodles, and chicken broth ready to go.

Sauté the Chicken

1. Heat Butter: Add 2 tablespoons of butter to a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the Chicken:
   • Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
   • Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.
3. Remove Chicken: Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

1. Add Garlic and Onion: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter.
2. Cook for 2–3 Minutes: Stir frequently until the onions are soft and the garlic is fragrant.

Add Noodles and Broth

1. Combine Noodles and Liquid:
   • Add the uncooked noodles to the pan.
   • Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the noodles are mostly submerged.
   • Season with a pinch of salt.
2. Bring to a Boil: Let the mixture come to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking.

Add Chicken and Cream

1. Return Chicken to the Pan: Once the noodles have softened, return the partially cooked chicken to the pan.
2. Pour in the Cream: Slowly add the heavy cream while stirring.
3. Simmer and Thicken: Allow the dish to simmer uncovered for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked.

Get Final Touches

• Stir in Butter: Add the remaining butter to coat the noodles evenly.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
• Taste Test: Adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the dish warm, straight from the pan. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Variations and Customization Tips for One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. You can modify it to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or ingredients you have on hand. Here are some popular variations and customization options to make it your own.

1. Protein Variations

If you want to switch up the protein or are catering to dietary restrictions, consider these alternatives:

• Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts
  • Chicken thighs provide a richer flavor due to their higher fat content.
  • Chicken breasts are leaner but still tender if cooked properly.
• Other Proteins
  • Shrimp: Add raw shrimp during the final 5 minutes of cooking for a seafood twist.
  • Turkey: Use leftover turkey for a post-holiday meal idea.
  • Tofu (for vegetarians): Use firm tofu, browned separately, then added to the dish.

2. Adding Vegetables

Incorporating vegetables not only enhances the dish nutritionally but also adds color and texture. Popular choices include:

• Peas: Add during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Broccoli Florets: Steam or blanch beforehand and stir in before serving.
• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and garlic for an earthy flavor.
• Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach during the final few minutes to let it wilt.

Pro tip: For a heartier dish, try adding a mix of vegetables for a more balanced meal.

3. Noodle Alternatives

Don’t have egg noodles? No problem. Try these substitutions:

• Pasta Types
  • Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work well.
  • For shorter pasta, try rotini, penne, or farfalle.
• Gluten-Free Options
  • Use gluten-free noodles made from rice, quinoa, or chickpea flour. Adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.

4. Flavor Enhancers

Boost the taste by adding these optional ingredients:

• Cheese
  • Parmesan, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano enhances the creamy sauce.
  • Stir grated cheese directly into the sauce or sprinkle on top before serving.
• Herbs and Spices
  • Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or chives can elevate the dish’s flavor.
  • Add paprika, red pepper flakes, or a splash of lemon juice for an extra kick.
• Garlic Butter Sauce
  • Increase the garlic content and melt additional butter for a more garlicky, buttery flavor profile.

5. Lightened-Up Version

Want a lighter version of this dish? Try these tweaks:

• Use Less Butter: Reduce the amount of butter by half.
• Swap the Cream: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
• Add More Veggies: Increase the quantity of vegetables to cut down on noodles and calories.

6. Make It Spicy

For those who love heat, try these spicy upgrades:

• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch when sautéing the aromatics.
• Hot Sauce: Stir in your favorite hot sauce, such as sriracha, for a tangy heat.
• Cajun Seasoning: Season the chicken with Cajun spice mix for a Southern-inspired twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

While this dish is simple to make, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the taste, texture, and overall success of your recipe. Here’s what to watch out for to ensure a perfect one-pan meal every time.

1. Using the Wrong Pan Size

• Why It’s a Problem:
  A small pan can overcrowd the chicken and noodles, causing uneven cooking and a soggy texture.
• Solution:
  Use a large, deep skillet or sauté pan that can accommodate all ingredients comfortably. This allows proper browning of the chicken and even distribution of heat.

2. Overcooking the Chicken

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Overcooked chicken becomes dry and chewy, which can ruin the texture of the dish.
• Solution:
  • Brown the chicken only until it’s about 80% cooked during the initial sautéing.
  • It will finish cooking when simmered with the noodles and sauce.
  • Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

3. Overcooking or Undercooking the Noodles

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Noodles that are overcooked can become mushy, while undercooked noodles will be too chewy.
• Solution:
  • Stir the noodles occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
  • Follow the recommended simmer time, but taste-test for doneness before removing from heat.

4. Not Stirring the Pan Frequently

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Without stirring, noodles may clump together or stick to the bottom of the pan, leading to uneven cooking.
• Solution:
  Stir the dish regularly, especially during the simmering phase, to distribute heat and prevent sticking.

5. Skipping the Deglazing Step

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Skipping deglazing (scraping the browned bits from the pan) means you miss out on rich, deep flavors from the caramelized chicken and garlic.
• Solution:
  After sautéing the chicken and aromatics, use a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits to incorporate into the sauce.

6. Using Too Much Liquid

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Excessive liquid can make the dish too watery, preventing the sauce from thickening.
• Solution:
  • Measure the chicken broth and cream accurately.
  • Allow the dish to simmer uncovered towards the end to reduce excess liquid and thicken the sauce.

7. Not Adjusting the Seasonings

• Why It’s a Problem:
  Underseasoned or over-seasoned food can taste bland or overpowering.
• Solution:
  • Taste the dish before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs as needed.
  • If you’re using store-bought broth, choose low-sodium to avoid an overly salty dish.

8. Adding Dairy Too Early

• Why It’s a Problem:
  If cream is added too early, it may curdle or separate under high heat.
• Solution:
  • Add heavy cream only during the final few minutes of cooking.
  • Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer before incorporating dairy.

9. Skipping the Butter Finish

• Why It’s a Problem:
  The buttered noodles are a key element of this dish. Skipping the final butter finish can result in a less rich and creamy texture.
• Solution:
  Stir in the remaining butter just before serving to give the noodles a velvety coating and enhance the flavor.

Expert Tips and Tricks for Perfect One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

These expert tips will help you elevate your one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles to a restaurant-quality dish. From flavor-boosting techniques to time-saving tricks, these suggestions will make your cooking experience smoother and more rewarding.

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

• Why It Helps:
  Cooking chicken straight from the fridge can cause uneven browning and longer cooking times. Cold cream may curdle when added to a hot dish.
• Tip:
  • Let chicken rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking.
  • Allow cream and broth to come closer to room temperature for smoother incorporation.

2. Brown the Chicken for Extra Flavor

• Why It Helps:
  Browning the chicken enhances the flavor through caramelization, adding a deeper, savory taste to the dish.
• Tip:
  Sear the chicken pieces on medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan. Resist the urge to stir too often; let them develop a golden-brown crust first.

3. Toast the Noodles (Optional)

• Why It Helps:
  Toasting the noodles in butter before adding liquid enhances their flavor and helps them retain a firmer texture.
• Tip:
  Add noodles to the pan after sautéing the aromatics and stir in butter until lightly golden before adding broth.

4. Layer the Flavors

• Why It Helps:
  Layering ingredients like herbs, spices, and seasonings at different stages of cooking builds complexity in the dish.
• Tip:
  • Add herbs and spices when sautéing aromatics.
  • Finish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

5. Deglaze the Pan for Added Depth

• Why It Helps:
  Deglazing lifts up flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan (called fond) and incorporates them into the sauce.
• Tip:
  After browning chicken and aromatics, pour in a splash of chicken broth and scrape the pan before continuing to cook the noodles.

6. Don’t Rush the Simmering Process

• Why It Helps:
  Allowing the dish to simmer slowly helps the sauce thicken naturally and allows flavors to meld together.
• Tip:
  • Keep the pan covered during the initial noodle-cooking phase to trap heat and moisture.
  • Remove the lid for the final simmer to reduce the liquid and thicken the sauce.

7. Add Dairy at the Right Time

• Why It Helps:
  Adding cream too early can cause it to separate. Timing it correctly ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Tip:
  • Reduce the heat to low and add cream only in the final 5–7 minutes of cooking.
  • Stir continuously to prevent curdling.

8. Use Fresh Herbs and Parmesan for Garnish

• Why It Helps:
  Fresh herbs and cheese add color, aroma, and extra layers of flavor. They also make the dish more visually appealing.
• Tip:
  Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil and grated Parmesan on top just before serving.

9. Rest the Dish Before Serving

• Why It Helps:
  Letting the dish rest for a few minutes allows the sauce to thicken further and the flavors to fully develop.
• Tip:
  Remove from heat and let the pan sit, covered, for 3–5 minutes before serving.

10. Double the Recipe for Meal Prep

• Why It Helps:
  This dish reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
• Tip:
  Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Learn more about Easy Creamy Pasta Recipes

Perfect Pairings for One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

Pairing your one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles with complementary sides and drinks can elevate your meal to a complete dining experience. Here are some of the best options to serve alongside this dish, including salads, bread, vegetables, and beverages.

1. Salads

A fresh, crisp salad balances out the richness of the creamy buttered noodles and chicken.

• Caesar Salad
  • Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan adds a crunchy contrast.
  • Consider a light dressing to avoid overwhelming the flavors of the main dish.
• Mixed Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
  • A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette helps cleanse the palate.
• Spinach and Arugula Salad
  • Toss spinach and arugula with sliced almonds, cranberries, and a honey-mustard dressing for a sweet-savory combo.

2. Bread Options

Bread makes a perfect side to soak up the creamy sauce from the noodles.

• Garlic Bread
  • Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic side that pairs beautifully with creamy pasta dishes.
  • You can make your own by toasting slices of French bread with butter, garlic, and parsley.
• Dinner Rolls
  • Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are another great option. Serve warm with a side of butter for spreading.
• Rustic Artisan Bread
  • For a heartier pairing, serve slices of artisan bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

3. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

Adding a side of vegetables enhances the nutritional value and adds color and texture to your plate.

• Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus
  • Toss vegetables in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast at 400°F until tender and slightly caramelized.
  • Optional: Drizzle with lemon juice or sprinkle with Parmesan.
• Steamed Green Beans
  • Steamed green beans tossed with butter and slivered almonds provide a fresh, simple accompaniment.
• Grilled Zucchini and Squash
  • Grilling adds a slightly smoky flavor that complements the creamy noodles.

4. Soups (Optional)

A light, flavorful soup can be served as a starter to complement the richness of the main dish.

• Tomato Basil Soup
  • The acidity from the tomatoes pairs well with the creamy sauce, providing a nice balance.
• Minestrone
  • This hearty vegetable-based soup offers a lighter first course packed with nutrients.

5. Beverages

Pairing the right drink can enhance the dining experience.

• Wine
  • White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy sauce.
  • Red Wine: A light Pinot Noir can complement the chicken without overpowering the dish.
• Non-Alcoholic Options
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and palate-cleansing.
  • Iced Tea: Lightly sweetened iced tea works well with rich meals.
  • Homemade Lemonade: The tartness balances the creamy flavors perfectly.
• Beer
  • A light, refreshing lager or wheat beer pairs nicely with chicken and creamy sauces.

6. Desserts (for a Sweet Finish)

If you want to round out your meal, try a light dessert to finish on a sweet note.

• Lemon Bars
  • The bright citrus flavor cuts through the richness of the meal.
• Fresh Fruit Salad
  • A mix of berries, melons, and citrus fruits provides a refreshing and healthy dessert.
• Tiramisu or Cheesecake
  • A small slice of either dessert can provide a rich but satisfying finale to the meal.

Discover great ideas like Quick WW Dinners

Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making and customizing one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles. These tips will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly and suits your personal preferences.

1. How do you make one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles?

Answer:
To make this dish, start by browning diced chicken in butter, then remove it from the pan. Sauté garlic and onions, add uncooked noodles and chicken broth, and simmer until the noodles soften. Add heavy cream and return the chicken to the pan, letting it simmer until the sauce thickens. Finish by stirring in butter and garnishing with herbs and Parmesan.

For full step-by-step instructions, check out the earlier sections of this guide.

2. What type of chicken is best for this dish?

Answer:
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs are both great options.

• Chicken Breast: Lean and tender, chicken breast cooks quickly and is ideal for a lighter meal.
• Chicken Thighs: Thighs are more flavorful and less likely to dry out, making them a popular choice for richer, creamier dishes.

If you’re in a rush, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken as a shortcut.

3. Can I add vegetables to one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles?

Answer:
Absolutely! Vegetables can add both nutrition and color to the dish. Common options include:

• Broccoli: Add steamed broccoli near the end of cooking.
• Peas: Stir in frozen peas a few minutes before serving.
• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic.
• Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach during the last few minutes to let it wilt.

Adding vegetables creates a more balanced meal and enhances the flavor.

4. How do I prevent the noodles from sticking or clumping?

Answer:
To prevent noodles from sticking, follow these tips:

• Stir the noodles regularly during the simmering phase.
• Ensure there’s enough liquid to cover most of the noodles while they cook.
• Add butter at the end to coat the noodles and keep them separated.

5. What are some ways to make the sauce thicker?

Answer:
To achieve a thicker, creamier sauce:

• Simmer the dish uncovered during the final 5 minutes to let the liquid reduce.
• Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce.
• You can also make a quick slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stirring it into the dish.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Answer:
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating Tip: Warm the dish on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

This dish also works well for meal prep and reheats beautifully.

Conclusion – Enjoy Your One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

Making one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles is a simple yet satisfying way to bring comfort food to your table with minimal time and effort. This versatile dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering rich, creamy flavors in just one pan with easy clean-up.

Whether you customize it with vegetables, swap in your favorite pasta, or experiment with seasonings, this recipe can be tailored to your tastes. By following the tips and avoiding common mistakes outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create a perfect meal every time.

Looking for more great recipes? Check out more comforting chicken dishes on PanoramaRecipes. You’ll find plenty of meal ideas that are as quick and delicious as this one!

Looking for inspiration? Try 30-Minute Skillet Recipes

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One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

Valerie

This one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy, golden-browned chicken pieces are nestled in rich, buttery noodles coated in a velvety cream sauce. With minimal prep, a single pan, and no need for complicated steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something both hearty and hassle-free.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 serving

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Large deep skillet or sauté pan (with a lid)
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Sharp knife
• 1 Measuring cups and spoons
• 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
• 1 Ladle (for serving)

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter plus 1 tablespoon for later
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 small onion finely diced
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
• 12 ounces egg noodles
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
• Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

• Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
• Cook Aromatics:
• In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon butter, minced garlic, and diced onion.
• Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic is fragrant.
• Add Noodles and Broth:
• Add the uncooked egg noodles to the pan.
• Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the noodles are mostly submerged.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Return Chicken and Add Cream:
• Return the browned chicken to the pan once the noodles have softened.
• Stir in the heavy cream and simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to finish cooking.
• Final Touches:
• Add 1 tablespoon butter and stir to coat the noodles.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
• Serve:
• Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread. Enjoy your comforting one-pan meal!

Notes

Add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or mushrooms for a more balanced meal.
For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of cream or broth.

Keyword comfort food dessert, Creamy buttered noodles, creamy pasta with shallots, Easy chicken dinner, Minimal clean-up meal, One-pan chicken, One-pan recipe, Quick one-pot meal