If you are looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a great option. This hearty dish is perfect for families or anyone craving comfort food. The chicken is juicy and tender, while the egg noodles soaked in garlic and butter make every bite delightful. In just one pan, you can create a meal that is not only simple but also flavorful. Cooking in one pan means less cleanup and more time to relax.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. First, it is quick and easy, which is excellent for busy weeknights. You can have dinner ready in about 30 minutes. Second, this recipe is very flexible. You can easily add your favorite vegetables or spices according to your taste. This dish is also great for leftover chicken if you have some on hand. You can use this base recipe and change the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences.
Another reason to try this dish is its comforting flavors. The combination of garlic, butter, and tender chicken is perfect for creating a warm feeling on a chilly night. Additionally, cooking everything in one pan allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a dish that is both simple and impressive.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Making One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is straightforward. Follow these steps, and you will have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 4 tbsp real butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prep Your Ingredients:
Start by preparing your ingredients. Chop the garlic and any other vegetables you may want to add. Vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers work well in this dish. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.Sear the Chicken:
Take a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and wait for it to melt. When the butter is hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 5 minutes until they are golden brown. This step locks in the moisture and flavor of the chicken. While the chicken cooks, season it with salt and pepper to enhance the taste.Add Garlic:
Once the chicken is browned, take it out of the pan and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant. This step is important, as it will give the dish its wonderful aroma and flavor.Add Chicken Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a boil. Boiling the broth helps to create a rich base for the noodles and chicken.Add Egg Noodles:
Stir in the egg noodles when the broth is boiling. Lower the heat and let it simmer. Cook the noodles for about 8 to 10 minutes until they are al dente. Stir occasionally to ensure the noodles do not stick together.Combine Everything:
While the noodles are cooking, check on the chicken. If it’s cooked through (no longer pink in the center), slice it into strips. Once the noodles are done, return the chicken to the pan. Remove from heat, stir in the remaining butter, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. This final touch adds freshness and flavor to the dish.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
When serving One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, you can keep it simple. Use wide bowls for each serving, allowing everyone to enjoy the hearty noodles and juicy chicken. You can sprinkle a little more chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. For an added touch, consider presenting the dish with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
This meal is perfect for family dinners, and kids will likely love it, too. The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it a hit for both adults and children.
How to Store One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
If you have leftovers, it’s easy to store One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you find that the noodles have absorbed too much liquid while stored, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating.
Tips to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can elevate the flavors of this dish. Always choose the freshest ingredients you can find for the best results.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles while they cook. You want them to be al dente, meaning they should be firm to the bite. Overcooked noodles can become mushy.
Customize the Dish: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish. Green beans, spinach, or zucchini can add flavor, nutrition, and color.
Season Well: Don’t forget to season the chicken with salt and pepper liberally. This ensures that every part of the dish is full of flavor.
Variation
If you’d like to add a bit of variety to your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, consider different spices or herbs. A dash of Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give it a unique kick. You can also swap out the egg noodles for other pasta types like fettuccine or penne, depending on your preference.
For a creamy version of this dish, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end. Stir it in when adding the butter for a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they will take longer to cook. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
Can I substitute the chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth or even water if you do not have chicken broth. However, the flavor will be less rich.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and noodles ahead of time. Store the cooked components separately in the fridge and combine them when you are ready to serve, reheating as needed.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can cook the chicken in a slow cooker with the garlic and chicken broth. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then add the cooked egg noodles at the end to absorb the flavors.
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a fantastic recipe to add to your family meals. It’s quick, easy, and delicious, making it a must-try for any home cook!
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients
Method
- Chop the garlic and any additional vegetables you may want to add, like peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt.
- Sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the egg noodles and reduce heat to simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente.
- Check the chicken for doneness, slice if cooked through, and return to skillet once noodles are ready.
- Remove from heat, stir in remaining butter and chopped parsley.