One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s as effortless as it is comforting, let me introduce you to the magical One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles. This dish is a total weeknight hero, bursting with juicy chicken, luscious garlic-butter sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles that soak up every creamy drop. Best of all, it’s all made in just one pan, so you can get an absolutely heartwarming meal with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for hungry kids or want something wonderfully cozy for yourself, this recipe truly delivers on flavor, comfort, and ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The real beauty of One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles is that each ingredient serves a special purpose, working together to create that crave-worthy texture and flavor combo. It’s simple, but every component is essential for that creamy, cozy goodness we all adore.
- Chicken breasts: These turn super tender when simmered in the creamy sauce and bring hearty protein to each bite.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken until golden brown, adding depth of flavor right from the start.
- Butter: Brings that classic richness and melds perfectly with the garlic for the ultimate buttery sauce.
- Garlic: With eight cloves, the garlic gives this dish its signature aroma and irresistible savory taste.
- Chicken broth: Acts as a flavorful base for simmering the noodles and builds a savory backbone for the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Adds that creamy, luxurious texture that makes the sauce so dreamy.
- Egg noodles: Wide and wonderfully soft, they soak up the sauce and hold everything together.
- Parmesan cheese: Infuses the sauce with a salty, umami-packed punch and unbeatable creaminess.
- Italian seasoning: Offers a blend of dried herbs that rounds out the flavors and makes everything taste extra homey.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for brightening up all the flavors—taste and adjust as you go!
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh finish to every serving; don’t skip the garnish!
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles
Step 1: Prep and Sear Your Chicken
Start off by seasoning your cubed chicken breasts with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Fire up a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until each piece is beautifully browned on all sides—this is how you lock in all those savory flavors. Once golden, set the chicken aside on a plate; don’t worry, it’ll finish cooking later!
Step 2: Create the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, melt the butter right into those flavorful pan juices left from your chicken. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute until it fills your kitchen with an amazing fragrance. This step is where the bold flavors of One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles really start to come alive!
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Carefully pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, giving everything a gentle stir so the garlic and butter meld into the mix. Crank up the heat to bring things to a steady simmer. This combo of broth and cream will form the velvety, flavor-packed sauce that soaks into every noodle.
Step 4: Add Noodles and Seasoning
Pop in the uncooked wide egg noodles and sprinkle over the Italian seasoning. Gently push the noodles down so they’re nicely submerged in the liquid. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up all that garlicky, buttery richness.
Step 5: Cook Everything Together
Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces among the noodles. Bring the whole pan to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it all simmer away for 10 to 12 minutes—just remember to give it an occasional stir. You’ll know it’s ready when the noodles are perfectly tender and the chicken is juicy and cooked through.
Step 6: Stir in Parmesan and Finish
Remove the lid and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese into the mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is ultra-smooth and creamy. Taste and add a little more salt and pepper if needed—you want every bite to pop with flavor!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, shower everything with a handful of freshly chopped parsley. This final step brightens up the whole dish, making your One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles look as irresistible as it tastes.
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley instantly lifts the entire dish, adding a splash of color and a punch of freshness. For extra indulgence, you can also dust some more parmesan cheese over each serving or add a pinch of cracked black pepper for a beautiful finish.
Side Dishes
While One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles is an all-in-one comfort meal, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables. Garlic bread is another wonderful choice for soaking up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish family-style right out of the skillet for a cozy, communal feel. If you want to get a bit fancy, swirl the noodles with tongs onto plates and top each portion with extra chicken, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a wedge of lemon for brightness. Mini cast-iron skillets or rustic bowls also add a special touch to the presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then spoon them into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, your One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day treat!
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the sauce returns to its creamy consistency.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce seems a little thick. Stir frequently to keep things from sticking, and heat until everything is steamy and smooth again. Individual portions can also be microwaved in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe and can even add an extra boost of flavor and juiciness. Just make sure to cube them for even cooking.
Do I need to cook the noodles separately?
No need! One of the joys of One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles is that the noodles cook right in the pan, soaking up all those delectable flavors as they go.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as some gluten-free pastas can soften more quickly.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
Whole milk or half-and-half can work in a pinch, though the sauce will be a little lighter. For extra creaminess, try adding an extra tablespoon of butter or a few tablespoons of cream cheese.
How can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to toss in baby spinach, frozen peas, or even diced bell peppers with the noodles. They’ll cook alongside everything else, making your One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles even more hearty and colorful.
Final Thoughts
Give yourself a little gift and make One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles for dinner tonight—you’re in for a spectacularly rich and cozy experience with every bite. It’s pure comfort, easy enough for a busy weeknight, and guaranteed to become a cherished favorite at your table. Enjoy!
