One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the perfect dinner solution when you need a quick and delicious meal with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken breasts paired with buttery, cheesy noodles makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. The best part is that everything is made in one skillet, which means less time spent cleaning up afterward.

Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it also offers great flavor thanks to simple ingredients like garlic powder, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. It’s the kind of dish that can be whipped up after a busy day and is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe will impress with its ease and delicious results.

Let’s dive into why this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles should be your next go-to recipe and how you can make it at home with just a few simple steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

2. Minimal Cleanup

Since the chicken and noodles are all cooked in one pan, you won’t have to worry about washing multiple pots and pans, making cleanup a breeze.

3. Flavorful and Comforting

The seasoned chicken paired with rich, buttery noodles and a touch of Parmesan makes for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to please even picky eaters.

4. Versatile

You can easily add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet to customize the dish to your liking and make it even more filling.

5. Family-Friendly

This dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple, tasty, and can be served to both adults and children alike.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Egg noodles
• Butter
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted vegetables to the noodles for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Lovers: Add a blend of cheeses, like mozzarella or cheddar, in addition to Parmesan for a cheesy, indulgent dish.
• Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken seasoning.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese when making the noodles for a creamy twist on the classic recipe.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Melt the Butter

In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt, scraping up any bits left from the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Add the egg noodles to the skillet and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Combine and Add Cheese

Once the noodles are cooked, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sprinkle the chicken with grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the noodles.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender. A meat thermometer can be helpful to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Use a Large Skillet: A large skillet gives you enough space to cook the chicken and noodles without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
• Add Pasta Water: If the noodles seem dry after cooking, add a splash of the pasta cooking water to loosen them up and add flavor.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

How to Serve

Serve the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles as a complete meal on its own. You can pair it with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a more filling dinner. It’s also great with a glass of white wine or your favorite beverage.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stove over low heat, adding a small amount of butter or water to keep the noodles from drying out.

Freezing

While the dish can be frozen, the texture of the noodles may change slightly. For the best results, freeze the chicken and noodles separately. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti, depending on what you have on hand.

3. Can I make this dish without cheese?

If you prefer to make the dish without cheese, you can leave out the Parmesan and still enjoy a flavorful meal, thanks to the butter and seasoning.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or peas to make the dish even more nutritious.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the chicken or stir in a bit of hot sauce with the buttered noodles.

6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter adds flavor, you can use margarine in place of butter if you need a dairy-free or lower-fat alternative.

7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

8. Can I cook the noodles in a separate pot?

Yes, you can cook the noodles separately in a pot and then combine them with the chicken in the skillet with the butter and Parmesan cheese.

9. Can I make this dish in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and noodles ahead of time, but it’s best to cook everything fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

10. Can I use frozen chicken?

While fresh chicken is recommended, you can use frozen chicken breasts if needed. Be sure to thaw them before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that will become a family favorite in no time. With its simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with little effort. The combination of tender chicken and buttery noodles with a touch of Parmesan cheese is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.

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