One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting meal without the hassle of extensive cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken breasts with flavorful noodles, all cooked in one pan. The blend of savory spices and buttery garlic noodles makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and garlic-infused butter elevates the taste of both the chicken and noodles.
• Versatile Meal: This dish can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
• Comforting and Satisfying: It’s a classic comfort food that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A must-have for cooking everything in one pan while allowing even heat distribution.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy when adding spices, resulting in perfect flavor balance.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for preparing chicken and garlic safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Noodles

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 8 ounces egg noodles

For the Butter Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
1. Add the seasoned chicken breasts.
2. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown.
3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Noodles

In the same skillet:
1. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
2. Stir in the egg noodles, ensuring they are fully submerged in the broth.
3. Cover and cook for about 7-8 minutes until al dente and most liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Make Garlic Butter

While the noodles are cooking:
1. Melt the butter in a separate pan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the noodles are cooked:
1. Add the butter and garlic mixture to the skillet with noodles.
2. Stir in Parmesan cheese (if using) and toss to combine.

Step 6: Serve

Slice the cooked chicken into pieces and arrange on top of the noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve immediately.

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Serving One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a delightful way to bring comfort food to the table. This dish is versatile and can be complemented with various sides or garnishes to enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
• Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the chicken.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Serve alongside steamed broccoli to add a nutritious crunch.
• Roasted Carrots: Roasted carrots bring sweetness and a pop of color, enhancing the meal’s appeal.

With Sauces

• Gravy: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought gravy over the chicken for added richness.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, offer hot sauce on the side to spice things up.

How to Perfect One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Perfecting your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is simple with a few tips. These suggestions will help you achieve the best possible flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and herbs for enhanced flavor compared to dried alternatives.
• Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure chicken is cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Keep an eye on the noodles; they should be al dente for the best texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Pairing side dishes with One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this delicious main dish.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds crunch and additional garlic flavor.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing balances the richness of the noodles.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting combination when served alongside chicken.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with almonds provide both elegance and flavor.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of buttered noodles.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the dish’s savory flavors and adds a fun touch to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use enough garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown color and ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
• Not stirring the noodles: If you don’t stir the noodles occasionally while cooking, they can stick together. Ensure they are well mixed with the broth for even cooking.
• Using cold chicken broth: Adding cold broth directly into a hot skillet can lower the temperature too much. Always use room temperature or warm broth to maintain a steady simmer.
• Neglecting garnish: Skipping fresh parsley can make your dish look less appealing. A simple garnish adds color and makes your meal more inviting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to avoid freezer burn; it can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in an oven-safe container, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

You can easily substitute chicken thighs in this recipe. They will add extra flavor and moisture.

What type of noodles work best?

Egg noodles are recommended for this dish, but you can also use other pasta types like fettuccine or spaghetti if needed.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free for a safe option.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some frozen peas or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is not just easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without much fuss. Give it a try, and enjoy a cozy meal that everyone will love!