Why Make This Recipe
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a simple yet delicious meal. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with soft, buttery noodles, all cooked in one pan. This not only makes for easy cleanup, but it also means that all the flavors meld together beautifully. Whether you’re feeding a family or just cooking for yourself, this recipe provides a hearty meal that is both satisfying and comforting.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it requires minimal ingredients, which are likely already in your pantry. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, you will find this recipe easy to follow.
The balance of garlic and chicken broth combined with fresh parsley offers a lovely flavor profile, which elevates the taste without overwhelming the palate. Additionally, the comforting aspect of buttered noodles makes this dish a winning combination that the whole family will enjoy.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients:
- 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 chopping your garlic finely. If you wish to add any vegetables, such as spinach or peas, chop them up as well. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of real butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5 minutes on each side or until they have a nice golden-brown color. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste while cooking.
Add Garlic: Once the chicken is nicely browned, add your minced garlic to the skillet. This should be sautéed for about 1 minute, just enough time for it to become fragrant but not burned.
Add Chicken Broth: Carefully pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. The broth will deglaze the pan, lifting any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Cook the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles, making sure they are submerged in the broth. Allow it to simmer for about 8-10 minutes. You want the noodles to be cooked al dente, which means they should be tender but still firm to the bite. Keep an eye on the liquid level; if it looks like too much is evaporating, you can always add a splash more broth or water.
Finish the Dish: Once the noodles are cooked, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and mix until it melts completely into the dish. Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Serving One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is straightforward. You can dish it up right from the skillet if you’re looking for a casual meal. Alternatively, for a more formal setting, you might spoon the dish onto plates or into bowls.
Consider garnishing each serving with a little extra parsley for added color and freshness. You could also offer some grated Parmesan cheese on the side, as it pairs wonderfully with the buttery noodles. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would make an excellent accompaniment, rounding out the meal.
How to Store One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
If you have leftovers, they’ll be well worth saving. To store One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, place any leftovers in an airtight container. It’s best to refrigerate the dish if you plan to eat it within the next 3-4 days.
When reheating, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet to help bring moisture back to the noodles. Heat gently over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If you’re storing it for a longer period, freezing is an option too. However, keep in mind that the noodles might lose some of their texture after thawing.
Tips to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Seasoning: Feel free to add additional seasonings or herbs to enhance the flavor. A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic touch.
Vegetables: You can incorporate vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach. Just add them along with the garlic to cook slightly before adding the broth.
Butter Quality: Use real butter for the best flavor. It makes a significant difference compared to margarine or spreads.
Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.
Do Not Overcook: Watch the noodles carefully; overcooking can lead to mushiness. Aim for that perfect al dente texture.
Variation
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is versatile, and you can switch it up based on your preferences. Here are a few variations:
- Pasta Variety: Substitute egg noodles with any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta for a different texture and taste.
- Protein Swap: Use other proteins like shrimp or tofu for a twist on the classic recipe. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Creamy Version: For a creamier dish, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end, stirring it in after the chicken and noodles are cooked.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken will bring spice to the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, you will need to allow extra cooking time to ensure they are thoroughly cooked. It is best to thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking for even results.
2. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Alternatively, water can be used, but it will lack the flavor found in broth.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and chop the garlic and other ingredients ahead of time for convenience. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.
4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate reading.
5. Can I make it without butter?
While butter adds a rich flavor, you can use olive oil or another cooking oil if you’re looking for a lighter option. Keep in mind that it will change the taste slightly.
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is not just a recipe; it’s a meal that brings comfort, simplicity, and flavor together. With easy cooking methods and straightforward ingredients, you can enjoy this dish any night of the week!
PrintOne-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
A simple and delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken breasts with buttery noodles, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free noodles)
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping garlic and any vegetables if desired.
- Sear the chicken in a skillet with butter over medium-high heat for 5 minutes on each side.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil to deglaze the pan.
- Stir in egg noodles, simmer for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- Finish by stirring in remaining butter and fresh parsley.
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating additional herbs or vegetables. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: chicken, easy recipe, one-pan meal, buttered noodles, weeknight dinner