Savory One-Pan Chicken and Creamy Buttered Noodles

Short Description

This savory one-pan chicken and creamy buttered noodles recipe is the perfect comfort meal for busy weeknights. Succulent chicken is seared to perfection and nestled in a rich, buttery, and creamy noodle sauce, all cooked in a single pan for easy cleanup. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor – A luxurious buttery sauce coats the noodles, making every bite indulgent.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules.
• Family-Friendly – Both kids and adults will love the comforting taste and creamy texture.
• Customizable – Easily adapt this dish with different protein options or vegetables to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Egg noodles
• Butter
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley

Directions

1. Season and Sear the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the pan, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat and stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Return the Chicken: Place the seared chicken back into the pan, nestling it into the noodles. Let it heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different take on this dish.
• Vegetable Additions: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream to reduce the richness.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

How can I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

Stir the noodles occasionally while cooking and ensure they are fully submerged in liquid.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

What type of chicken works best?

Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Shred and add it to the dish during the final step for a quicker meal.

What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half, milk, or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add extra chicken broth or cream if needed while reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.

Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?

Yes! Try using mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement this meal beautifully.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

To make it keto-friendly, replace the noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Conclusion

This savory one-pan chicken and creamy buttered noodles dish is a perfect combination of ease, flavor, and comfort. With simple ingredients and a streamlined cooking process, it’s ideal for a satisfying weeknight meal. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish from the comfort of your home!

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