One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles | Perfect for Busy Nights!
Introduction
Busy evenings call for something simple, satisfying, and delicious — and this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles checks every box! Tender chicken breasts, creamy noodles, and a buttery garlic sauce all come together in a single pan for a meal that’s as comforting as it is convenient. It’s perfect for families, weeknight dinners, or anyone craving comfort food without the cleanup.
Ingredients & Quantities
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz egg noodles (about half a standard package)
3 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear on both sides until golden brown (about 4–5 minutes per side). Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce Base:
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
4. Cook the Noodles:
Add the egg noodles directly into the pan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender.
5. Add Butter & Chicken:
Stir in the butter until melted and silky. Return the chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the noodles. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes to heat through.
6. Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy creamy noodles and juicy chicken in every bite!
Origin
This dish draws inspiration from classic American comfort food, combining European influences of buttered noodles and pan-seared chicken. It’s a modern twist on home-style cooking — simple techniques with rich, satisfying flavors.
Cultural Significance
In many cultures, “one-pan” meals symbolize togetherness and practicality — families gathered around hearty food that’s easy to share. This recipe celebrates the beauty of efficiency in modern life without compromising the soul of comfort cooking.
Description
Imagine tender chicken nestled in a creamy, garlicky sauce that coats every ribbon of egg noodle. The butter adds luscious depth, while the broth and cream bring that velvety texture we all crave. Every bite is rich yet balanced — the perfect weeknight indulgence.
Optional Additions
Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition.
Cheese: Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan for a richer flavor.
Herbs: Fresh thyme or basil can brighten the dish beautifully.
Spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat.
Tips for Success
Don’t overcook the noodles — they’ll continue softening as they sit in the sauce.
Sear the chicken well to lock in juices and add flavor depth.
Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and taste.
Adjust the sauce consistency with a splash more broth if it thickens too much.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~560
Protein: 42g
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: ~650mg
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Conclusion
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a weeknight hero — quick to prepare, wonderfully creamy, and universally loved. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, saving time while delivering big on flavor.
Recommendation
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with a light white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Eating well doesn’t mean giving up comfort — it means finding balance. This recipe celebrates both flavor and nourishment, showing that even indulgent dishes can be part of a mindful lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation and made with wholesome ingredients.
Keep Cooking, Keep Creating!
If you enjoy this recipe, don’t forget to follow along for more simple, delicious, and heartwarming dishes designed to make your evenings easier — and tastier!
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