One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug for your taste buds and a solution to those busy weeknight dinners. I remember the first time I made this dish; the combination of perfectly cooked chicken and luscious noodles infused with garlic and herbs brought everyone to the table, eager to dig in. This recipe is straightforward, using just one pan, making cleanup a breeze—a bonus for any home cook! Perfect for after a long day, this dish not only satisfies cravings but also brings a sense of comfort that feels like home.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are plenty of reasons to whip up One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. For starters, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking around 30 minutes from start to finish—ideal for a weeknight dinner when time is of the essence. It’s budget-friendly too; simple ingredients come together to create something delicious and filling.
And let’s not forget about the kids—they adore the buttery noodles! With a combination of savory flavors, this meal is sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.
“This dish has quickly become a family favorite! The noodles are so buttery and flavorful, and I love how easy it is to make.” – Happy Home Cook
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple, straightforward process that yields fantastic results. You’ll start by cooking the chicken to golden perfection, then sautéing garlic in the same skillet. Finally, the noodles will absorb all those delicious flavors as they cook in chicken broth. The best part? Everything cooks in one pan, saving you time and effort.
What You’ll Need
To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Feel free to substitute fresh herbs for dried or even use a vegetarian broth for a meat-free version!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to prepare your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles:
- Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. While the butter is melting, season the chicken breasts with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Now, add the egg noodles to the skillet, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it with the noodles until everything is well combined.
- Finish off by garnishing with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles can be both fun and creative! This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, adding a crisp contrast to the richness of the noodles. For a comforting touch, serve with warm garlic bread or a side of steamed broccoli.
If you’re feeling adventurous, top the dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors even more.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), storing One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
When reheating, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to reacquaint the noodles with moisture. This will ensure they remain soft and delicious!
Practical Cooking Tips
Here are some expert tips for perfecting your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles:
- For additional flavor, consider marinating the chicken briefly with the spices beforehand, even if just for 30 minutes.
- If you like a touch of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with garlic.
- Always taste the broth while simmering the noodles; you can adjust seasoning as needed.
Creative Twists
Feel free to switch things up with this recipe! Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers in the last few minutes of cooking to incorporate more nutrients and color. Alternatively, you can swap the egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free options. For a bit of umami richness, try adding a splash of soy sauce or a dollop of sour cream right before serving.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire meal can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to achieve even cooking.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a little added broth to keep the noodles from drying out.
With this recipe in hand, you’ll find yourself returning to it time and again. Happy cooking!
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts Seasoned with spices
- 8 oz egg noodles Can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free
- 4 tablespoons butter Divided for cooking
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Sautéed in butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika For seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme For seasoning
- Salt To taste
- Pepper To taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth As cooking liquid for noodles
- Fresh parsley For garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Cooking the Noodles
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the egg noodles and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Combining and Serving
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it with the noodles until well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.