one-pan chicken with buttered noodles.

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

(Comfort Food Made Easy in One Skillet)

If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dinner that doesn’t leave your kitchen full of dirty dishes, One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the answer. This simple, homestyle meal combines tender, juicy chicken with rich, buttery noodles cooked right in the same pan. The result is a dish that’s flavorful, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. As the noodles cook, they absorb the savory juices from the chicken and broth, creating a silky, comforting texture that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One pan only – easy cleanup
Tender chicken cooked to perfection
Buttery, flavorful noodles infused with chicken juices
Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
Ready in under 40 minutes

This dish is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable comfort food.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Stovetop Heat: Medium to medium-low
Yield: 4 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients

Chicken

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Noodles

8 ounces egg noodles
2½ cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
A splash of cream for extra richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and nearly cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Tip: Don’t wipe out the pan—those browned bits add flavor to the noodles.

Step 3: Add Broth and Noodles

Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the egg noodles and stir gently to submerge them in the liquid.

Step 4: Return Chicken to the Pan

Nestle the chicken pieces back into the skillet on top of the noodles. Cover with a lid and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Butter and Finish

Remove the lid. Stir in the butter until melted and glossy. The noodles should be silky and coated in a light sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while warm.

Tips for Perfect One-Pan Chicken and Noodles

Use egg noodles – they cook quickly and absorb flavor beautifully.
Don’t overcook the chicken – it will finish cooking while simmering with the noodles.
Keep the heat gentle to avoid mushy noodles.
Stir gently to prevent breaking the noodles.
Add butter at the end for the richest flavor and texture.

Variations

Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or milk at the end.
Garlic Butter Chicken: Add 2 cloves minced garlic when adding broth.
Veggie Boost: Add peas, spinach, or mushrooms during the last 5 minutes.
Herb-Forward: Add fresh thyme or dill for extra aroma.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle Parmesan or shredded mozzarella on top before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the noodles.
Not freezer-friendly: Buttered noodles can become mushy when frozen.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables
Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls
Add a side of roasted carrots or green beans for balance

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the definition of simple comfort food. It’s rich without being heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and perfect for nights when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.