One Pan Chicken with Buttery Noodles The Best Easy Noodle Recipes

Why This One Pan Chicken Noodle Recipe is a Must-Try

There’s something timeless and universally comforting about a dish of buttery noodles. Pair that with juicy pan-seared chicken, and you’ve got a meal that checks every box — satisfying, simple, and quick to prepare. This one pan chicken with buttery noodles recipe takes a beloved classic and gives it a flavorful upgrade with just a few pantry staples. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or when you simply crave something warm and nourishing without the fuss.

Not only does this dish come together quickly, but it also eliminates the need for complicated steps or a sink full of dishes. The technique used for cooking the chicken in a skillet, paired with the gentle richness of buttered noodles, creates a harmonious texture and taste. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook the perfect chicken breast in a pan, here’s a Pinterest guide on skillet-cooked chicken that complements this method beautifully.

One-pan recipes like this are more than just convenient — they’re smart cooking. With the right ingredients, such as egg noodles, unsalted butter, and a perfectly seasoned chicken breast, you can bring together flavors that feel both elevated and homey. And if you’re interested in discovering other easy noodle recipes, check out this Pinterest board full of weeknight pasta ideas. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is a reliable addition to your comfort food arsenal.

In today’s fast-paced world, simplicity in the kitchen is a luxury. That’s why this one pan chicken and noodles recipe stands out — minimal effort, minimal ingredients, and maximum flavor. The subtle richness of butter, the savory depth of garlic powder, and the freshness of parsley come together to create a dish that feels indulgent without being complicated.

Key Ingredients for One Pan Chicken with Buttery Noodles

Creating a deeply satisfying plate of buttery noodles with chicken doesn’t require a long list of ingredients. What makes this recipe shine is its reliance on simple, high-quality staples that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. Each ingredient has a role — from adding depth of flavor to building the ideal texture in every bite.

Here’s what you’ll need for this dish:

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  These are lean, protein-packed, and cook quickly in a skillet. For best results, use evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly. For a closer look at how chicken is used in global cuisines, explore this Wikipedia article on chicken as food.

• Egg noodles (12 oz)
  Their soft, tender texture makes them the perfect base for soaking up butter and juices from the chicken. Compared to other pasta, egg noodles offer a lighter and silkier mouthfeel. Learn more about their origins here on Wikipedia.

• Unsalted butter
  A key component that delivers richness and depth. Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the overall saltiness of the dish. You can explore how butter is traditionally used in cooking from this Wikipedia entry.

• Olive oil
  Used for searing the chicken, olive oil helps form that golden, crisp crust on the outside. Its high smoke point and subtle flavor make it ideal for pan cooking. For more details, read this overview of olive oil on Wikipedia.

• Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper
  These essential seasonings ensure the chicken is savory and flavorful. Garlic powder offers a mellow, well-rounded garlic flavor without the sharpness of raw garlic. Curious about how it’s made? This article on garlic powder provides insight into its culinary uses.

• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  A garnish that brightens the dish and adds color contrast. Parsley also provides a touch of herbaceous freshness that balances the richness of the butter. Find out more about its nutritional and culinary uses here.

In addition to the base ingredients, you can experiment with variations to fit your preferences:

• Use chicken thighs for a juicier result.

• Add lemon zest for brightness.

• Mix in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

• Top with parmesan for a cheesy finish.

Each of these options helps transform a simple plate of noodles and chicken into a more personalized and elevated meal. You can also browse one pan dinner inspirations for more creative twists on this concept.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Bringing together juicy chicken and buttery noodles in one dish requires just a few simple steps. With a bit of attention to timing and technique, you’ll create a rich, comforting meal that tastes far more complex than the process suggests. Follow these clear instructions to master this one pan chicken noodle recipe.

A. Preparing and Cooking the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:
   Start by seasoning 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder on both sides. This basic seasoning blend enhances the natural flavor of the meat without overpowering it.

2. Heat the Pan:
   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. You should hear a gentle sizzle—this means the chicken is searing properly and will develop a golden crust.

3. Sear Until Cooked Through:
   Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes on each side. The goal is to get a beautiful, golden exterior while ensuring the inside reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid flipping the chicken too early—this helps lock in juices and improves browning.

4. Butter Baste for Flavor:
   Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet once the chicken is nearly done. As it melts, spoon the butter over the chicken to baste it. This creates a glossy finish and adds another layer of richness. It’s a trick used in many restaurant kitchens to deepen flavor quickly.

5. Let It Rest:
   Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial—resting allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite more tender. For more tips on cooking chicken perfectly, this Pinterest guide to skillet chicken is a helpful reference.

B. Cooking the Egg Noodles

1. Boil the Water:
   In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Salting the water is essential—it’s your first chance to season the noodles from the inside out.

2. Cook the Noodles:
   Add 12 oz of egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until just tender. These noodles typically cook quickly, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.

3. Drain and Butter:
   Drain the noodles and return them to the pot while they’re still hot. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir until fully melted and the noodles are evenly coated. This step gives the dish its signature silky, buttery texture.

4. Season and Garnish:
   Taste and add salt if needed. Optionally, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for a fresh finish. Want to explore other comfort food combinations like this? Check out this Pinterest collection of cozy noodle recipes.

C. Putting It All Together

• Slice the Chicken:
  Use a sharp knife to slice the rested chicken into even strips. The outside should be crisp and golden, while the inside remains juicy and flavorful.

• Assemble the Dish:
  Plate a generous portion of buttered noodles and top with the sliced chicken. Drizzle with any remaining butter or pan juices from the skillet for added richness.

• Serve Immediately:
  This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when the butter is still glistening and the chicken is warm and tender. For a full one-dish dinner, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

If you’re looking to expand your repertoire beyond this recipe, this Wikipedia guide on comfort foods offers ideas from various cultures that prioritize the same satisfying, hearty flavors.

What Makes This Recipe So Special?

This one pan chicken with buttery noodles recipe stands out for its combination of simplicity, flavor, and efficiency. While it uses just a handful of ingredients, the result is rich and satisfying, with layers of texture and taste that come together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this dish is a weeknight winner.

Balanced Texture and Flavor

At the heart of this recipe is the contrast between tender, juicy chicken and soft, buttery noodles. The seared chicken provides a savory bite with a golden crust, while the noodles act as a soft, comforting base that absorbs all the buttery richness. This dynamic makes the dish feel hearty and indulgent, even though it’s relatively light and straightforward.

• Egg noodles bring a uniquely silky texture that complements the chicken perfectly. You can read more about their traditional use in this Wikipedia article on egg noodles.

• The unsalted butter used in the final steps ensures a smooth, creamy finish without overwhelming saltiness — a small touch that elevates the entire dish.

Family-Friendly and Customizable

This dish appeals to all ages. The flavors are mild and familiar, making it a great option for families, including kids who may be picky eaters. But what makes it even more special is how easily it adapts:

• Want more richness? Add parmesan or a splash of heavy cream.

• Prefer a fresher touch? Toss in some spinach or steamed peas.

• Craving a zesty kick? Finish with lemon zest or a dash of red pepper flakes.

For creative inspiration, this Pinterest board of comfort food recipes showcases easy ways to modify staple dishes like this one while still keeping the base intact.

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Results

This recipe exemplifies the magic of simple ingredients used well. There’s no need for specialty items or hard-to-pronounce components — just chicken, butter, egg noodles, and a few pantry spices. It’s a reminder that great meals don’t have to be complicated or expensive.

• For example, parsley — often overlooked — adds a bright note that freshens up the plate. You can explore more about how parsley is used in cooking here.

No Oven, No Fuss

Unlike many baked pasta dishes or casserole-style recipes, this one is entirely stovetop-based. That means no preheating, no baking dishes, and no long waits. Just one skillet, one pot, and dinner is ready.

It’s this combination of practicality and indulgence that makes the one pan chicken buttery noodles recipe so special — an instant classic with timeless appeal.

Time-Saving Tips & One Pan Variations

Even though this one pan chicken with buttery noodles recipe is already quick and easy, there are several ways to make it even more efficient. Whether you’re short on time, cooking for a crowd, or just looking to simplify weeknight meals, these time-saving hacks and recipe variations will keep things flexible without sacrificing flavor.

Smart Shortcuts for Busy Weeknights

• Use Rotisserie Chicken:
  Replace the raw chicken breasts with shredded rotisserie chicken to skip the cooking step entirely. Just warm it in the skillet with butter and seasonings before combining with the noodles.

• Pre-Cooked or Instant Noodles:
  If you’re really in a rush, use pre-cooked egg noodles or fresh pasta, which heats up in minutes. For tips on the best types of noodles to use, check out this Pinterest board on easy noodle recipes.

• One Pot Cooking Trick:
  Cook the egg noodles in the same skillet after removing the chicken. Add water or chicken broth directly to the skillet, bring to a boil, and toss in the noodles. This saves an extra pot and adds more flavor, as the noodles absorb the pan juices.

• Frozen Veggies for Extra Nutrition:
  Toss in a handful of frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli during the last few minutes of noodle cooking. It adds color, texture, and nutrition with no extra prep.

• Mise en Place:
  Have all your ingredients pre-measured and chopped before you start. This French kitchen trick keeps the process smooth and avoids last-minute scrambling.

Flavorful Variations to Try

• Creamy Chicken Noodles:
  Add ¼ cup of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese after buttering the noodles to create a creamy sauce. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese also deepens the flavor.

• Spicy Garlic Twist:
  Sauté fresh minced garlic in the skillet before adding the butter, and include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Garlic lovers can also explore this Wikipedia article on garlic powder for more culinary ideas.

• Lemon Herb Upgrade:
  Add lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish. Complement it with fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a Mediterranean feel.

• Add Protein Variety:
  Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or turkey breast if you want to change things up. For more ways to use chicken creatively, see this Wikipedia guide to chicken as food.

• Turn It Into a Casserole:
  Transfer the finished dish to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden. It becomes a hybrid between skillet pasta and baked casserole.

Keep It Juicy: Chicken Cooking Tips

To avoid dry, rubbery chicken, follow these chef-approved tips:

• Pound the Chicken Evenly:
  Before cooking, lightly pound the chicken breasts so they’re the same thickness. This ensures even cooking.

• Let It Rest:
  Always let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This locks in juices.

• Use a Meat Thermometer:
  Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooking is the #1 cause of dry chicken.

• Butter Basting:
  Spoon melted unsalted butter over the chicken as it finishes cooking. This technique, featured in many professional kitchens, keeps the meat moist and flavorful.

Looking for more one pan dinner ideas? This Pinterest board full of skillet meals offers a variety of similar recipes that maximize flavor with minimal cleanup.

By mastering a few of these time-saving techniques and exploring new variations, you can turn this already-great recipe into a versatile, go-to staple for your weekly rotation.