One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles: A Comforting Culinary Experience
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with perfectly cooked noodles in a rich, buttery sauce. This recipe offers a wholesome meal that warms the soul and tantalizes your taste buds. If you’re looking for a comforting recipe that’s both simple and delicious, this dish is your answer.
Why Make This Recipe
Making One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is more than just dinner; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. First and foremost, it’s easy to prepare. With minimal dishes to wash afterward, it’s a great option for hectic weeknights or laid-back weekends. The combination of juicy chicken, perfectly seasoned noodles, and a hint of lemon elevates the flavors, turning an ordinary meal into something special. Plus, the use of everyday ingredients means you can whip it up without a trip to the store.
How to Make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Creating this dish involves straightforward steps to achieve a delicious meal. Let’s dive into the details so you can get started!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lb)
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp red-pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Directions
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Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Allow the seasoned chicken to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will help to enhance its flavor and make it more tender.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Once the butter starts foaming, place the chicken breasts in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook them for about 4–5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of around 140°F. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate, covering it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
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Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, red-pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2–3 minutes until it reduces slightly.
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Cook the Noodles: Add the dry egg noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the sauce. Pour in ½ cup of hot water or extra broth, and then cover the pan, reducing the heat to low. Let the noodles steam for 8–10 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent them from sticking.
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Bake the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the noodles are almost done, nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the noodles, spooning any remaining sauce over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Serve the Dish: After removing the skillet from the oven, let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Slice the chicken against the grain, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately while the noodles are glossy, and the chicken remains juicy.
Pro Tips for Success One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Before seasoning, make sure to thoroughly pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Monitor Temperature: An instant-read thermometer can help ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked. You want it to reach 165°F for optimal juiciness and safety.
- Don’t Rush the Noodles: Allow the noodles to steam adequately. Stirring halfway ensures that they cook evenly and don’t clump together.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap out dried thyme for other herbs like oregano, rosemary, or Italian seasoning to suit your taste.
Flavor Variations One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the top just before serving for a creamy, cheesy twist.
- Herbaceous Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor profile significantly, giving the dish more brightness.
- Creamy Version: For a richer sauce, consider adding heavy cream or sour cream to the broth mixture before incorporating the noodles.
Serving Suggestions One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Pair this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls can also be delightful accompaniments to mop up any remaining sauce.
Storage and Freezing Instructions One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
To store leftovers, allow the chicken and noodles to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. If you plan to freeze, keep in mind that noodles may lose some texture when thawed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to revive the moisture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|—————-|
| Calories | 490 |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbohydrates| 45g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes! While wide egg noodles work beautifully, you can swap them out for another pasta shape. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may vary. For example, thinner pastas like spaghetti will cook quicker.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and refrigerate them separately. When ready, simply cook the noodles and combine everything for a quick dinner.
Is it possible to substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can easily replace chicken with turkey, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the protein you choose.
What if I don’t have a skillet that can go in the oven?
Don’t worry! You can sear the chicken in a regular skillet and transfer everything to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven. Alternatively, you can cook the entire dish on the stove if desired.
How can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the red pepper flakes altogether. If you’re in the mood for something spicier, consider adding additional red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce when serving.
Final Thoughts
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a straightforward yet indulgent recipe that promises comfort and satisfaction. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you want to treat yourself with something delicious. The ease of preparation, combined with the rich flavors and delightful textures, makes this dish a standout choice for any home cook. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy the meal!
Print
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: N/A
Description
A delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with perfectly cooked noodles in a rich, buttery sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lb)
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp red-pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Let rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter, and cook chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.
- Add remaining butter and garlic to the skillet, cooking for 30 seconds. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and seasonings. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add egg noodles to the skillet, toss to coat in sauce, add hot water or extra broth, cover, and steam for 8–10 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Nestle chicken back into skillet on top of noodles, spoon sauce over, and bake for 12–15 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, slice the chicken, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor and consider adding vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
