One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a delightful and hassle-free meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection alongside buttery, garlic-infused noodles, this dish brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, it stands out for its simplicity and minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time spent washing dishes.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of spices and butter creates a rich flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a go-to meal for families.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen for a fun cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: The key tool for cooking the chicken and noodles together in one pan.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of spices for the best flavor.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the chicken before serving.

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 Final Touches

• 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

Season 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. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Noodles

In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the egg noodles, ensuring they are fully submerged in the broth.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Cover and cook the noodles for about 7-8 minutes or until they are al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Make Garlic Butter

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

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Once the noodles are cooked, add the butter and garlic mixture to them. Stir in Parmesan cheese (if using) and toss to combine well.

Step 7: Serve

Slice the cooked chicken and arrange it on top of the noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious meal!

How to Serve One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family dinner, these suggestions will elevate your meal.

For a Cozy Family Dinner

• Serve with Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread complements the buttery noodles perfectly.
• Add a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette adds a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken and noodles.

For Entertaining Guests

• Pair with Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer color and nutrition, enhancing the plate’s visual appeal.
• Include a Cheese Platter: Offer a small cheese platter for guests to nibble on before the main course.

For Quick Weeknight Meals

• Top with Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach adds nutrients and a pop of color in just minutes.
• Serve with Steamed Broccoli: This simple side dish brings additional fiber and vitamins to your meal.

How to Perfect One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

To make your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles even better, consider these helpful tips for cooking perfection.

• Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices according to your taste. More paprika can enhance flavor!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and herbs for richer flavors in your dish.
• Watch Cooking Times: Ensure that chicken is fully cooked but avoid overcooking the noodles for optimal texture.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer creamier noodles, consider adding a splash of cream or milk at the end.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Pairing side dishes can elevate your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles into an unforgettable meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide comforting richness.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing offers a refreshing crunch alongside your dish.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender makes for an elegant side.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds zest and balances the richness from the buttered noodles.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a fun and tasty addition during summer months.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf loaded with vegetables brings a healthy grain option to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Make sure to season both sides of the chicken well before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Not stirring the noodles: Stirring the noodles occasionally helps prevent them from sticking together and ensures they cook evenly.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth adds depth to your dish. Opt for high-quality chicken broth for better flavor.
• Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like fresh parsley enhance the presentation and add flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag, and use within 2-3 months.

Reheating One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for added flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

What type of noodles work best?

Egg noodles are traditional, but you can also try fettuccine or whole wheat pasta for variation.

How do I customize One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli during cooking for extra nutrition and color.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and simply reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Try it today—your family will love it!