Indulge in Comfort with One-Pan Chicken and Buttered Noodles
There’s something undeniably soothing about a hearty, homestyle meal, especially when it’s all made in one pan. This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that combines crispy, golden chicken breasts with perfectly cooked egg noodles tossed in garlicky butter. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a Sunday family dinner, this recipe delivers flavor and comfort without the fuss. I remember the first time I made this; the aroma filled my kitchen, and the family gathered around the table, eager to dig in. Let’s discover why this dish should be your next culinary adventure.
What Makes This Recipe a Must-Try
When it comes to weeknight dinners, you want something quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles checks every box. Not only does it come together in about 30 minutes, but it’s also budget-friendly and kid-approved, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy a meal without breaking the bank. The best part? There’s minimal cleanup—everything cooks in one skillet, leaving you free to spend time enjoying your meal rather than scrubbing pots and pans.
“I made this for my family, and it was a hit! The chicken was tender, and the noodles were bursting with flavor. I love how easy it was to prepare!” – A satisfied home cook.
The Cooking Process Explained
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll follow a simple yet effective cooking process. Start by searing the chicken to golden perfection, then incorporate fresh garlic to build layers of flavor. Add in chicken broth and noodles, and let them mingle until everything is tender and deliciously coated in butter. This straightforward method helps ensure that every bite is packed with rich flavors while keeping things uncomplicated.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving in, gather these key ingredients to make your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 4 tbsp real butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to adjust the garlic or parsley based on your family’s preferences. You can even throw in some seasonal vegetables like spinach or peas for an extra nutritional boost.
Directions to Follow
Here’s your simple, step-by-step guide to making delicious One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles:
- Prep your ingredients: Start by chopping your garlic and any other vegetables you’d like to include.
- Sear the chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan, sautéing for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
- Incorporate the noodles: Stir in the egg noodles, allowing them to simmer for 8-10 minutes until they reach an al dente texture.
- Finish with butter and parsley: Remove the skillet from heat, stirring in the remaining butter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Plating this dish beautifully doesn’t take much effort but enhances the experience. Serve the chicken breasts atop a generous serving of buttery noodles, making sure to drizzle some of the sauce from the pan over everything. Pair it with a simple green salad for added freshness or steamed vegetables for a more wholesome meal. A sprinkle of additional parsley can add a pop of color and flavor.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), it’s essential to store them properly. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep the noodles from drying out. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and noodles, ensuring they’re well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Practical Cooking Tips
- Don’t skip the searing: Searing the chicken creates a beautiful crust and locks in the juices, giving you succulent meat at the end.
- Garlic timing: Be sure to add garlic after the chicken is seared; otherwise, it can burn and turn bitter.
- Adjust the broth: If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add an extra half cup of chicken broth when the noodles are cooking.
Creative Twists on This Recipe
Who doesn’t love a little experimentation in the kitchen? Here are some creative twists to consider:
- Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach or cherry tomatoes in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Cheesy Option: Stir in grated Parmesan or mozzarella right before serving for a creamy finish.
Common Questions
How long does this take to prepare?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You could use turkey breasts or tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Is it safe to freeze the dish?
Yes, once cooled, you can freeze it. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container for the best results.
This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a kitchen classic that deserves a spot in your rotation. Not only is it quick and comforting, but it’s also endlessly customizable, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy!
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One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting one-pan dish featuring crispy chicken breasts and buttery egg noodles, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 4 tbsp real butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Start by chopping your garlic and any other vegetables you’d like to include.
- Sear the chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
- Incorporate the noodles: Stir in the egg noodles, allowing them to simmer for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
- Finish with butter and parsley: Remove from heat, stir in the remaining butter, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra nutrition, consider adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or peas. Adjust garlic and parsley based on your family’s preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg