One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

If you’re in the mood for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table, then this One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy, perfectly cooked chicken paired with rich, buttery noodles that soak up all the savory goodness from the chicken – all made in one pan for easy cleanup! It’s simple, it’s cozy, and it’s packed with flavor. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a go-to dinner in your recipe box.

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

This dish isn’t just about filling your belly – it’s about filling your home with delicious smells and creating a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: You can easily swap the chicken for other proteins like pork or even shrimp. The noodles are a perfect base for so many variations!

Budget-Friendly: This meal uses simple ingredients that are both affordable and easy to find, making it a great option for feeding a family without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: One pan, a few ingredients, and less than 30 minutes – what’s not to love? Perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner.

Customizable: Want to throw in some veggies like spinach, peas, or mushrooms? Go for it! The creamy noodles and chicken are a great backdrop for any extra flavor additions.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a small gathering, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The rich, buttery noodles with tender chicken are a combination that everyone can get behind.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouthwatering one-pan wonder:

Chicken Breasts: The chicken is tender and juicy, cooking to perfection and soaking up all the delicious flavors from the pan.

Butter: A generous amount of butter makes those noodles irresistibly creamy and adds richness to the chicken.

Garlic: A few cloves of garlic bring an aromatic depth to the dish and complement the chicken and noodles beautifully.

Chicken Broth: The savory base that helps cook the noodles and infuses them with flavor.

Heavy Cream: Adds the creamy texture that makes the noodles dreamy and luxurious.

Parmesan Cheese: For that nutty, salty bite that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce.

Noodles: Choose your favorite pasta – whether it’s spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other kind, the noodles will absorb all the creamy goodness.

Olive Oil: A little drizzle to help cook the chicken and enhance the overall flavor.

Salt and Pepper: For seasoning and ensuring everything is perfectly balanced.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now let’s dive into the simple steps for this creamy, one-pan masterpiece:

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, melt the butter and add the garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant – you’ll love how it smells!

Make the Sauce: Add the chicken broth to the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Cook the Noodles: Add the noodles to the pan and stir them into the creamy sauce. Add enough water to just cover the noodles. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are al dente and have absorbed the sauce, about 8-10 minutes.

Combine and Finish: While the noodles are cooking, slice the chicken into strips. Once the noodles are done, add the chicken back to the pan. Stir everything together to combine and let it all warm through.

Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon for a little brightness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 560

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

This dish is hearty and filling on its own, but here are a few ideas to take it up a notch:

• Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy noodles.
• Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.
• For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of freshness and color.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your one-pan dinner turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken just until it’s golden and cooked through – overcooking it can make it dry.
• Stir the Noodles: Stir the noodles occasionally while they cook to make sure they don’t stick together and that they soak up all that delicious creamy sauce.
• Add Veggies: If you want to add a veggie boost, throw in some spinach or peas while the noodles are cooking for an extra pop of color and nutrition.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts much better and adds a smoother, richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish. Just make sure they’re cooked through and tender.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Absolutely! Any type of pasta will work – try penne, farfalle, or even macaroni for a fun twist.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then just cook the noodles and combine everything when ready to serve.
4. Is this dish gluten-free?
   This dish isn’t gluten-free due to the noodles, but you can easily swap in gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze the leftovers, but note that the creamy sauce may separate when reheated. It’s still delicious, though!
6. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce won’t be as thick or rich. It will still be creamy and delicious.
7. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! This dish is great for adding vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or spinach. Add them right into the pan when cooking the garlic for extra flavor.
8. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
   You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water, though the chicken broth adds a lot of depth to the flavor.
9. How can I make this spicier?
   If you like a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
10. Can I make this recipe without cheese?
    You can skip the cheese if you want, but it does contribute a lot of flavor and creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar effect.

Conclusion

One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. It’s quick to make, easy to clean up, and totally satisfying. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab a pan, a few ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, creamy meal that’s full of flavor!

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