When you’re in the mood for a comforting, satisfying, and delicious meal that doesn’t require a lot of cleanup, One Pan Chicken Noodles is the answer. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts, tender egg noodles, and creamy sauce, all cooked in one pan. It’s a quick, easy meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Plus, it’s packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance with every bite.
In this article, we’ll dive into the step-by-step process of making One Pan Chicken Noodles, as well as tips, variations, and everything you need to know about why this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Why One Pan Chicken Noodles?
There’s something magical about one-pan meals. They offer convenience, minimal cleanup, and a delicious combination of flavors that make cooking both easy and enjoyable. The One Pan Chicken Noodles recipe takes this convenience to the next level by combining juicy chicken, creamy pasta, and savory garlic in one skillet. Not only does it simplify your cooking process, but it also infuses every ingredient with rich, complementary flavors.
The ingredients in this recipe work together harmoniously to create a comforting, indulgent dish without overwhelming your palate. The chicken breasts provide lean protein, while the egg noodles soak up the rich chicken broth and heavy cream, creating a smooth, velvety sauce that ties everything together. Topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients for One Pan Chicken Noodles
Let’s break down the simple, but flavorful ingredients you’ll need for this One Pan Chicken Noodles recipe:
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These will serve as the main protein in the dish. Chicken breasts are lean, tender, and easy to cook quickly in a skillet.
-
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for searing the chicken and adding richness to the dish.
-
3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings that deep, savory flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
-
2 cups chicken broth: This adds depth and flavor to the sauce. It also helps cook the noodles, ensuring they soak up all the flavor.
-
1 cup heavy cream: The heavy cream is key to making the sauce rich, creamy, and indulgent.
-
8 ounces egg noodles: Egg noodles are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce while maintaining their tender texture.
-
3 tablespoons butter: Butter adds richness and a smooth finish to the dish.
-
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Parmesan gives the dish a salty, umami flavor that enhances the creamy sauce.
-
Salt and pepper to taste: These basic seasonings allow the flavors of the chicken and noodles to shine through.
-
Fresh parsley for garnish: The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a breakdown of how to make this One Pan Chicken Noodles recipe from start to finish:
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until the outside is golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked through. The golden color of the chicken adds flavor and texture, making it a perfect base for the noodles.
After searing, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. It will be sliced later and added back to the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant. The residual oil and juices from the chicken will enhance the garlic’s flavor, creating a savory base for the sauce.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Noodles
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir the mixture together, bringing it to a simmer. Once it starts to simmer, add the egg noodles to the skillet. Stir the noodles occasionally, ensuring they’re well-coated in the liquid. Let the noodles cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 4: Add Butter and Parmesan Cheese
Once the noodles are tender, stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the butter is melted and the cheese is fully incorporated into the sauce. This creates a creamy, velvety texture that will coat the noodles and make the entire dish incredibly satisfying.
Step 5: Slice and Combine the Chicken
While the noodles finish cooking, slice the seared chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Once the noodles are done, return the chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine it with the noodles and sauce. The chicken will absorb some of the sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish the dish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the dish hot, and enjoy the comforting, creamy goodness of One Pan Chicken Noodles.
Tips for Perfect One Pan Chicken Noodles
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your One Pan Chicken Noodles turns out perfectly every time:
1. Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe because they cook quickly and evenly. If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly juicier result.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked, so it’s important to monitor the cooking time. Searing the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side should be sufficient, but always check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
3. Stir the Noodles Occasionally
Egg noodles can stick together if not stirred occasionally while cooking. Be sure to stir them every few minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent them from clumping together.
4. Adjust the Sauce Consistency
If the sauce becomes too thick while cooking the noodles, feel free to add more chicken broth or a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy but not too heavy.
5. Customize the Recipe
Feel free to add extra ingredients like vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, or peas), or swap out the Parmesan for another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano for a different flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of One Pan Chicken Noodles is approximately 500-600 calories, depending on portion size. This meal is rich in protein from the chicken and has a good balance of carbs from the noodles and fats from the cream and butter. If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of cream or use whole wheat noodles for added fiber.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
FAQs About One Pan Chicken Noodles
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are the traditional choice for this dish, you can easily swap them out for other pasta types such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just keep in mind that different pasta shapes may require slight adjustments in cooking time. For best results, ensure the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce for maximum flavor.
2. Can I make One Pan Chicken Noodles ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is ideal for meal prepping. You can cook everything in advance, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat in the skillet or microwave, adding a bit more chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. The flavors will continue to meld and develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
3. How can I make this recipe dairy-free or lower in fat?
To make a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for a non-dairy milk like coconut milk or almond milk. For a lower-fat option, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lighter cream, like half-and-half, or even Greek yogurt for a thicker texture without the full fat. As for the butter and Parmesan, you can use dairy-free butter and nutritional yeast to achieve a similar creamy and cheesy effect.
4. Can I add vegetables to One Pan Chicken Noodles?
Yes! One of the great things about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can add various vegetables such as spinach, peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost its nutritional value and flavor. Just sauté the vegetables in the same pan after cooking the garlic, and then proceed with the rest of the recipe as usual. If you’re adding heartier vegetables like broccoli, it might be a good idea to steam or blanch them first to ensure they’re cooked through.
Conclusion: A Quick and Delicious Meal for Any Night
One Pan Chicken Noodles is the perfect dinner solution when you’re craving a satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful noodles in one skillet, making it a fuss-free option for busy nights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that will have your family asking for seconds.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, a weeknight meal, or as a comforting dish for guests, One Pan Chicken Noodles will never disappoint. Give it a try today and see just how easy it is to make a meal that’s both flavorful and filling.
Print
One Pan Chicken Noodles – Creamy, Easy & Family-Friendly
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One Pan Chicken Noodles recipe brings comfort and flavor together in one skillet. With juicy chicken breasts, creamy sauce, and tender egg noodles, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights. Quick, simple, and packed with deliciousness, you’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time!
Ingredients
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
3 garlic cloves, minced
-
2 cups chicken broth
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
8 ounces egg noodles
-
3 tablespoons butter
-
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
-
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
-
Sauté Garlic: In the same pan, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Add Liquids & Noodles: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add egg noodles and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until noodles are tender.
-
Add Butter & Cheese: Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
-
Combine & Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
-
For a lighter option, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
-
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms to make this dish even heartier.
-
Make sure to adjust the seasoning to taste, as chicken broth can vary in saltiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: One Pan Chicken Noodles, creamy chicken noodles, easy chicken dinner, skillet chicken pasta, one pan dinner, garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, weeknight chicken recipe, chicken and noodles