Chicken breasts and egg noodles come together in one skillet with garlic, broth, milk or cream, butter, and Parmesan. The complete ingredient list and cooking method are below.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 8 ounces egg noodles or pasta of choice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Preparation
1. Cook the Chicken
Use a food thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part; cooking time varies with thickness. See the USDA safe temperature chart.
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Noodle Base
In the same pan, melt another tablespoon of butter.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to deglaze the pan and combine all those flavorful browned bits from the chicken.
Bring the mixture to a light simmer.
3. Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles directly into the liquid.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Stir in the remaining butter and Parmesan cheese until the noodles are creamy and smooth.
4. Add the Chicken
Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan.
Toss gently to coat the chicken with the creamy buttered noodles.
5. Adjust the Seasoning
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy this delicious one-pan chicken with creamy buttered noodles straight from the skillet.
Tips for the Best One-Pan Chicken and Noodles
Don't skip the browning. Cooking the chicken until golden brown adds extra flavor to the finished dish.
Use a deep skillet. The noodles need enough room to cook evenly in the broth and milk mixture without spilling over.
Stir the noodles occasionally. This helps prevent them from sticking together or to the bottom of the pan.
Check the chicken. Chicken should be cooked through before slicing and adding it back to the pan.
Serve immediately. Creamy noodles are at their best while they're hot and freshly made.
Milk or Heavy Cream: Which Should You Use?
The recipe gives you two options: milk or heavy cream.
Milk creates a lighter, creamy sauce, while heavy cream produces a richer and more indulgent result.
If you're looking for a comforting dinner with a richer texture, heavy cream is a great choice. For a slightly lighter meal, milk works well.
Is This Recipe Healthy?
This is a comforting homemade dinner rather than a low-calorie recipe. It provides protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the noodles, while butter, milk or cream, and Parmesan contribute richness and fat.
For a more balanced meal, serve it alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, peas, or a simple green salad.
Portion size and the choice between milk and heavy cream can also affect the overall nutrition.
Variations and Substitutions
Add Vegetables
Stir in peas, spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or sliced bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Try a Different Pasta
The recipe calls for egg noodles or pasta of choice, so you can use another pasta shape if that's what you have available.
Make It Extra Garlicky
If you're a garlic lover, adding additional minced garlic can give the sauce an even stronger garlic flavor.
Add More Parmesan
For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle additional Parmesan over each serving.
Adjust the Heat
Keep the red chili flakes out for a mild family-friendly version, or add a little more if you enjoy spicy food.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken and Noodles
Because this dish is rich and satisfying on its own, simple sides work especially well.
Try serving it with:
Steamed broccoli
Roasted green beans
Simple garden salad
Garlic bread
Steamed peas
Roasted vegetables
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh because the noodles continue to absorb liquid as they sit. If making it ahead, you may need to add a small amount of milk or broth when reheating.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, although cooking time may vary depending on their size.
Can I use regular pasta instead of egg noodles?
Yes. The recipe allows for pasta of choice. Keep in mind that different pasta shapes and sizes may require slightly different cooking times.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes. The recipe specifically provides milk or heavy cream as options. Milk will generally produce a lighter sauce, while heavy cream creates a richer texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Allow leftovers to cool, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. When reheating, adding a small splash of milk or broth can help loosen the creamy noodles.
More Comfort Food Recipes
For another cozy dinner, try Crockpot White Chicken Chili. For dessert, see Slow Cooker Rice Pudding.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles is exactly the kind of dinner that makes busy nights easier. You get golden, tender chicken, buttery noodles, garlic, Parmesan, and a creamy sauce—all made in one skillet.
With simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and a total cooking time of under 40 minutes, it's an easy recipe to keep in your regular dinner rotation.
Serve it hot with a simple vegetable or salad, and you've got a cozy homemade meal the whole family can enjoy.