Make this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for a quick and satisfying meal. Juicy seasoned chicken, tender buttery noodles, and a rich, savory sauce come together in one pan with easy step-by-step instructions.

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles: A Comforting Dinner Made in One Pan

When you’re looking for a hearty meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup, this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the perfect solution. Tender, golden-seared chicken is cooked alongside buttery egg noodles in a flavorful broth, creating a creamy, comforting dish the whole family will love.

Everything cooks in a single skillet, allowing the noodles to absorb the rich chicken flavor while reducing the number of dishes you’ll need to wash. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, family dinners, or whenever you want a comforting homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Made in just one pan
Easy enough for beginners
Tender, juicy chicken
Rich, buttery noodles
Ready in about 40 minutes
Perfect for family dinners
Minimal cleanup

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Buttered Noodles

8 ounces (225 g) egg noodles
2½ cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

Large skillet with lid
Measuring cups and spoons
Tongs
Wooden spoon
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with:

Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper

Rub the seasoning evenly over each piece.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken.

Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.

The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.

Transfer it to a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium.

Add the minced garlic to the same skillet.

Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Avoid browning the garlic.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet.

Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Bring the broth to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the skillet.

Stir gently to ensure they are mostly submerged in the broth.

Step 6: Return the Chicken

Place the browned chicken on top of the noodles.

Cover the skillet with a lid.

Reduce the heat to low.

Simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until:

The noodles are tender.
The chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Most of the broth has been absorbed.

Step 7: Finish with Butter

Remove the chicken and place it on a serving plate.

Add the remaining butter to the noodles.

Stir until melted and evenly coated.

Mix in the chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, if using.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 8: Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet or serve it over the buttered noodles.

Garnish with extra parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serve immediately while hot.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

Steamed broccoli
Roasted asparagus
Garlic bread
Green salad
Roasted carrots
Sautéed green beans

Expert Tips

Use chicken thighs for extra juicy meat.
Do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender.
Stir the noodles once or twice while simmering to prevent sticking.
Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamier sauce.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.

Recipe Variations

Creamy Version

Stir in ½ cup heavy cream before serving.

Lemon Butter Chicken

Add the zest and juice of one lemon for a bright, fresh flavor.

Mushroom Version

Sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms with the garlic before adding the broth.

Vegetable Version

Add frozen peas or baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.

Herb Butter Version

Use fresh thyme, parsley, and chives for extra flavor.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to keep the noodles moist.

Freezing

Freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months. The noodles may soften after freezing and thawing, so they are best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are flavorful, stay moist during cooking, and work well in this recipe.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes. Short pasta such as rotini, fusilli, or penne can be used, though the cooking time and amount of liquid may need slight adjustments.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it in advance and refrigerate. Reheat gently with a little broth or water to restore moisture before serving.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the perfect comfort food for busy evenings. With juicy seasoned chicken, tender buttery noodles, and a rich savory broth, this easy one-pan meal delivers homemade flavor without a sink full of dishes. It’s a reliable recipe that’s simple enough for weeknights yet satisfying enough to serve to family and friends.