One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food dinner. Tender, juicy chicken is cooked alongside buttery egg noodles in a rich, flavorful broth, creating a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly recipe comes together in one skillet and delivers cozy, homemade flavor in every bite.

The noodles absorb the savory chicken juices and buttery sauce as they cook, resulting in a creamy, delicious dish that tastes like it simmered all day. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy meal-prep option, this one-pan recipe is sure to become a regular favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made in one pan for easy cleanup
• Ready in about 35 minutes
• Family-friendly comfort food
• Tender, juicy chicken
• Rich buttery noodles
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Perfect for busy weeknights
• Great for leftovers

Prep Time, Cook Time & Yield

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Buttered Noodles

• 12 ounces (340g) egg noodles
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra melted butter

Equipment Needed

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Tongs
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with:

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

Allow the chicken to sit for 5 minutes while the pan heats.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown.

The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.

Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Noodle Base

Reduce heat to medium.

Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.

Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth.

Add:

• Dried parsley
• Thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper

Bring the broth to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Add the Noodles

Stir the egg noodles into the broth.

Make sure most of the noodles are submerged.

Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it directly on top of the noodles.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the skillet with a lid.

Reduce heat to medium-low.

Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring the noodles once or twice during cooking.

The noodles should become tender while absorbing the flavorful broth.

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Finish with Butter

Remove the lid.

Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.

Allow the sauce to thicken slightly for 2–3 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with:

• Fresh parsley
• Parmesan cheese
• Additional melted butter if desired

Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Tips for Success

Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor

Chicken thighs remain juicy and add richness to the dish.

Don’t Overcook the Noodles

Check them a few minutes before the suggested cooking time, as different brands vary.

Keep the Lid On

Covering the pan helps the noodles cook evenly and absorb the broth.

Stir Occasionally

A quick stir prevents noodles from sticking together.

Use Good Quality Broth

The broth provides most of the flavor, so choose a flavorful chicken stock or broth.

Variations

Creamy Chicken and Noodles

Stir in:

• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup cream cheese

during the last few minutes of cooking.

Garlic Butter Version

Increase butter to 6 tablespoons and add 2 extra cloves of garlic.

Vegetable Chicken Noodles

Add:

• Peas
• Carrots
• Broccoli florets

during the final 5 minutes of cooking.

Herb Butter Noodles

Mix in fresh parsley, basil, and chives before serving.

Cheesy Chicken Noodles

Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese.

What to Serve with One-Pan Chicken and Buttered Noodles

This hearty meal pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed green beans
• Roasted broccoli
• Side salad
• Garlic bread
• Buttered peas
• Roasted carrots

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth.

You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: 465
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Different Noodles?

Yes. Rotini, fusilli, or medium pasta shapes work well, though cooking times may vary.

Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.

Why Are My Noodles Dry?

They may have absorbed too much liquid. Add a splash of broth when reheating.

Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?

Absolutely. Add cooked shredded chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?

Very much so. The buttery noodles and tender chicken are popular with both kids and adults.