One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

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There’s something so comforting about meals that come together in one pan. When I first made this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, I knew it was going to be a regular in my kitchen. The seared chicken, seasoned just right, paired with the creamy, silky noodles is the kind of meal that gets requested again and again. It’s rich without being heavy, buttery without being greasy, and so satisfying at the end of a long day.

I love how the flavors mingle together in the pan — the browned bits from the chicken help flavor the noodles, and the light sauce coats everything beautifully. What I appreciate most is how the recipe uses such humble ingredients to deliver such bold flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels a little indulgent but is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

What really makes this dish special is its ability to feel like comfort food while still having enough polish to serve to guests. It’s rustic but refined. I served this last weekend when friends dropped by unannounced, and it was on the table in under 40 minutes. Add a crisp salad and a glass of white wine, and you’ve got a dinner that makes people feel truly taken care of.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

You’ll love how this dish marries flavor with convenience. It’s the ultimate one-pan wonder: juicy, golden chicken thighs resting on top of tender egg noodles bathed in a luscious butter sauce. The ingredients are simple, but the result is anything but ordinary.

Cleanup is a breeze, making it a weeknight hero. Plus, it offers a lot of flexibility — you can play with herbs or even add a touch of cream for a richer sauce. And if you love creamy chicken dinners like my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts or the irresistible Marry Me Chicken, then you’re definitely going to enjoy this one too.

It’s hearty, quick, and always crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a whole family, this recipe checks all the boxes: delicious, efficient, and comforting.

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Season and sear the chicken
Start by seasoning boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of paprika. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Sear the chicken thighs for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the buttered noodles
In the same skillet, add a couple tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Let the garlic sizzle for about 30 seconds, then pour in chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in uncooked egg noodles and let them cook in the broth, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Return the chicken to the pan
Once the noodles are nearly cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Let it sit over low heat for a few minutes so the flavors can meld and the chicken warms through. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or freshly grated Parmesan, if you like.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

There are so many ways to make this recipe your own. If you prefer chicken breasts over thighs, go for it — just be cautious with cooking time to avoid dryness. For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use veggie broth, then toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

You can swap out egg noodles for fettuccine, linguine, or even orzo for a fun twist. To create a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese toward the end of cooking. And for a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a lovely kick.

Want more flavor? Add a splash of white wine with the broth or throw in some fresh thyme or rosemary during the simmering step. This is a recipe that welcomes your personal touch.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a meal that shines on its own, but it’s also incredibly versatile when it comes to sides and pairings. I love serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or some steamed green beans for freshness. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette is great for mopping up any extra buttery sauce.

If you’re looking to elevate the dish, pair it with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. These wines complement the richness of the butter and the savory chicken beautifully. For a cozier, winter version, add a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots to round out the plate.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? No problem. Store the cooled chicken and noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, which makes this dish just as enjoyable the next day.

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet and warm over low heat until heated through. This keeps the noodles from drying out and brings back that luscious, silky texture. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it tends to make the noodles rubbery and the chicken dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish creamier?

You can stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or even a dollop of cream cheese once the noodles are cooked for a silkier sauce.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Fettuccine, rotini, or even small shells can work well. Just be sure to adjust the broth quantity and cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently with added broth to help restore the texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, keep the noodles and chicken separate when storing. Combine them and warm gently before serving.

What other seasonings work well with this dish?

Italian seasoning, thyme, or a touch of smoked paprika are great additions. You can also finish it with lemon zest for a fresh pop.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, you’re in for a treat with some of my other creamy and comforting favorites. For a more indulgent twist, try the Marry Me Chicken Pasta. It brings a romantic flair to the dinner table with sun-dried tomatoes and a rich Parmesan cream sauce.

Looking for something with a garlic-forward punch? The Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts are savory, satisfying, and just as easy to prepare. And for a cozy casserole-style dinner, you’ll love the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti that lets the slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the mouthwatering results.

Each of these recipes brings the same spirit of comfort, flavor, and ease that makes the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles such a standout. I hope you give them all a try!

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles made your dinner table a little happier, don’t forget to save it for later! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it again when you need an easy and satisfying meal.

I’d also love for you to share it with your friends and family. Post it to Facebook, send the link to someone who could use a one-pan dinner idea, or tag me on Instagram if you make it. Spreading good food brings us all closer together, one delicious dish at a time.

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