One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful dish that brings together juicy chicken, silky buttered noodles, and a creamy sauce in just one pan. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The chicken is seasoned and seared until golden, then simmered with tender noodles in a rich buttery cream sauce. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—minimal cleanup, wholesome ingredients, and a meal that pleases both kids and adults. With a balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, this dish is not only delicious but also satisfying enough to stand alone as a complete dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the noodles and stir to coat them in the sauce. Let them simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes until fully cooked. Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and parsley. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 480
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Notes
This dish works well with chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat. You can also swap egg noodles with fettuccine or penne. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more broth if you prefer it lighter or letting it simmer longer for a thicker sauce.
Tips
Cook the noodles in the same pan for maximum flavor as they absorb the broth and seasonings. To save time, slice the chicken into strips before cooking. For extra richness, stir in an additional tablespoon of butter right before serving.
Health Benefits
This recipe offers a good balance of macronutrients. Chicken provides lean protein that supports muscle health and keeps you full longer. The cream and butter add healthy fats in moderation, aiding nutrient absorption and energy. Egg noodles are a source of carbohydrates, giving you quick energy, while parsley and lemon add antioxidants and vitamin C. When eaten in moderation, this dish can be part of a balanced diet that promotes satiety and energy throughout the day.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it in advance, but add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to keep the noodles creamy.
Q: What vegetables can I add?
A: Spinach, peas, or broccoli work wonderfully with the creamy sauce and add extra nutrients.
Q: Can I make it lighter?
A: Yes, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie version.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid sauce separation.