If you have been searching for a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together effortlessly, then you must try the One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked egg noodles all in one pan, making it not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare and clean up after. From the first bite, you’ll feel the warmth of creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped around savory chicken, creating the kind of meal that quickly becomes a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for delivering the creamy, garlicky goodness that makes this dish so special. Each element brings its own magic to the pan — from the tender chicken to the silky noodles and the burst of fresh garlic and cheese that elevate every bite.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Bite-sized pieces brown quickly and soak up the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to achieve that perfect golden sear on the chicken.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the rich, creamy base when combined with garlic.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor that infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and taste.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture, cooking the noodles to tender perfection.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luscious, velvety texture.
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (uncooked): Absorb the creamy sauce while staying satisfyingly tender.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy richness that rounds out the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Introduces a hint of color and freshness to brighten the plate.
- Optional garnishes: Additional fresh parsley or Parmesan for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Sear each piece for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown on all sides. This step locks in juices and builds a savory crust that will enhance the flavor of the entire dish. Once browned, set the chicken aside — don’t worry, it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, then melt the butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This quick step is what gives the sauce its deep, aromatic garlic flavor without bitterness. The butter and garlic create a luxurious base for the creamy sauce to come.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Noodles
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing them together right in the skillet. Add the uncooked wide egg noodles next, gently pressing them down so they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pan and let everything simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the noodles cook evenly until tender. This is the heart of the recipe, where the noodles soak up all that creamy, garlicky goodness.
Step 4: Return Chicken and Finish the Sauce
Once the noodles are perfectly tender, return the browned chicken to the pan. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried (or fresh) parsley. Stir everything together so the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a velvety, thick coating that clings lovingly to every bite of chicken and noodle. Let the skillet sit off the heat for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken just a bit more before serving.
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese on top instantly brightens the dish both visually and flavor-wise. These simple touches elevate presentation and add hints of freshness and salty, cheesy tang that make every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Even though this recipe is a meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. These add texture contrast and a fresh, clean flavor that balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this chicken and noodles straight from the skillet for a casual family-style meal that encourages sharing. Or, for a more elegant presentation, plate it with some freshly cracked black pepper and a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or truffle oil for an indulgent twist. Fun bowls or rustic plates also add to the cozy vibe of this homestyle dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after sitting for a day, making it wonderful for next-day lunches or dinners within 3 days.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, although the texture of the noodles may change slightly after thawing. Portion the chicken and creamy noodles into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and bring back its creamy consistency. Avoid microwave reheating at high heat to keep the sauce from separating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually fantastic for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender, and their richer flavor complements the creamy garlic butter sauce beautifully.
Is it necessary to use wide egg noodles?
Wide egg noodles are recommended because they hold the creamy sauce well, but you can substitute with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or pappardelle for a different texture. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap butter for a dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Parmesan cheese can be replaced with a dairy-free vegan cheese, although the flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
Be sure to stir the noodles occasionally while they simmer in the sauce, and press them gently into the liquid to ensure even cooking. Using enough broth and cream also helps them cook properly without sticking.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Toss in some baby spinach, peas, or sliced mushrooms along with the noodles for some extra color and nutrition. Just adjust the simmering time slightly to ensure the veggies cook through.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly wonderful about a meal that is simple to prepare yet delivers big on taste, and this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe hits every note perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish offers a cozy, satisfying experience that leaves everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead and give it a try — your skillet will thank you, and so will your taste buds!
Print
One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, garlicky butter sauce, tender egg noodles, and Parmesan cheese. Cooked entirely in one skillet, it’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner that delivers creamy, satisfying flavors without the need for multiple pots or pans.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce and Noodles
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (uncooked)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
Optional Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the bite-sized chicken pieces to ensure they are well seasoned for cooking.
- Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic in butter: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the pan, stirring to combine the flavors and deglaze any browned bits from the chicken.
- Cook the egg noodles: Add the uncooked egg noodles to the skillet, pressing them down into the liquid to ensure they are mostly submerged. Cover the skillet and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed some of the sauce.
- Combine chicken and cheese: Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried parsley, mixing everything until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Thicken and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken the sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if desired, then serve immediately and enjoy your creamy garlic butter chicken with egg noodles!
Notes
- Use chicken thighs if you prefer more flavor and juiciness; breasts work well for a leaner option.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering the noodles to prevent sticking.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.
- You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas when adding the noodles for extra nutrition and color.
- This skillet dish reheats well but is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.
