Ready to whip up a delicious dinner with minimal cleanup? In my post One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Delight, I’ll share a simple recipe that packs flavor and ease into one pan. You’ll learn all the ingredients you need and how to make this tasty meal step by step. Plus, I’ll offer tips to ensure your chicken and noodles come out perfect every time. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
The main ingredients in this dish are simple and fresh. The chicken breasts make the meal hearty, while the egg noodles soak up all the tasty sauce. Garlic adds a strong flavor that everyone loves. Spinach gives a nice color and a boost of nutrients.
Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor
– Lemon zest for brightness
– Sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet touch
– Mushrooms for extra umami
– A splash of white wine for depth
These optional ingredients can make the dish stand out even more. A bit of lemon zest can brighten the meal. Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet element. Mushrooms give a savory flavor that works well. If you want more depth, a splash of white wine is perfect.
Substitutions for Dietary Preferences
– Chicken: Use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.
– Noodles: Swap egg noodles for whole grain or gluten-free noodles.
– Heavy cream: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
These substitutions help fit various diets. If you’re vegan, tofu or tempeh works great. Whole grain or gluten-free noodles keep it healthy too. For a dairy-free option, coconut or cashew cream adds creaminess without the dairy.
Check out the Full Recipe for complete cooking instructions!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
First, take your chicken breasts and season them. Use salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want it golden brown and fully cooked. After that, set the chicken aside on a plate.
Cooking the Noodles
In the same skillet, don’t clean it; the flavors are still there! Add the egg noodles. Pour in the chicken broth and turn up the heat. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 5-7 minutes until they are al dente.
Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Once the noodles are done, it’s sauce time! Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Next, add the minced garlic and heavy cream. Stir everything well to mix. Heat the sauce until it thickens a bit.
Combining and Serving the Dish
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Return the chicken to the skillet with the noodles and sauce. Toss it all gently so the chicken and noodles are coated nicely. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper if needed. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve this dish hot and enjoy every bite! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Cooking Chicken Perfectly
To cook chicken well, start with fresh or thawed chicken. Pat it dry for a nice sear. Season it well with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat one tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken in the skillet. Cook each side for 5-7 minutes until it’s golden. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F for safety. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside.
How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Noodles
For great noodles, use egg noodles as they cook fast and taste good. In the same skillet after cooking chicken, add the noodles. Pour in one cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Follow package instructions for cooking time, usually 5-7 minutes. Check them often to avoid overcooking. You want them al dente, meaning firm to the bite. This adds a nice texture to the dish.
Enhancing the Flavor of the Sauce
To make the sauce delicious, use fresh garlic. Mince three cloves and add them after the noodles are cooked. Add the heavy cream and remaining butter for richness. Stir well to mix flavors. For extra taste, fold in one cup of spinach leaves. Let it wilt for a minute or two. The spinach adds color and nutrients. If you like, sprinkle in dried Italian herbs for a fragrant touch. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This will elevate your dish. For the full recipe, check the details above.
Variations
One-Pan Chicken with Different Pasta Types
You can swap the egg noodles for other pasta types. Try penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Each shape offers a new texture. For gluten-free options, use brown rice pasta or zoodles. These changes keep the dish fresh and exciting. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the pasta you use.
Adding Vegetables for More Nutrients
Adding vegetables boosts both flavor and health. Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or peas. These veggies add color and crunch. You can also add carrots for a sweet touch. To keep it easy, add them during the last few minutes of cooking. This way, they stay bright and tender.
Making it Spicy with Red Pepper Flakes
If you like some heat, red pepper flakes are great. Just a pinch can elevate your dish. Start small, then add more to taste. Mix them in with the garlic for a spicy aroma. This twist makes the meal exciting without overwhelming. Enjoy a kick that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To store your One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, let it cool first. Place the chicken and noodles in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to separate the sauce to keep the noodles from getting soggy.
How to Reheat One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
When you want to enjoy leftovers, reheat them gently. Use a skillet on low heat for best results. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy. Stir often until heated through. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage
If you want to store it longer, freezing is a great option. Place the chicken and noodles in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze it for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Enjoy your meal prep with this tasty dish! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You spend roughly 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. Cooking frozen chicken may take longer.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter option. For a dairy-free choice, try coconut milk or cashew cream.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the fridge. You can store it in airtight containers for up to four days.
How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?
To make it more kid-friendly, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also add a bit of cheese on top for extra flavor.
For the full recipe, check out the One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Garlic Buttered Noodles.
One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is simple and delicious. We went through the main ingredients and some tasty options to boost flavor. I shared tips for cooking chicken and noodles just right. You also learned how to store and reheat leftovers easily.
This dish is fun to change up, too. You can use different pasta and add vegetables. Overall, it’s a great meal for any day. Enjoy making it!
