If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug, the One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe is an absolute showstopper. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken bathed in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce and tender egg noodles cooked right in the same pan—making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both effortless and deeply satisfying. Every bite delivers rich, silky flavors with a touch of Parmesan and fresh herbs that turn simple ingredients into a cozy feast you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but crucial for creating the magic of this dish. Each one adds its own special touch, whether it’s the richness of butter, the sharpness of Parmesan, or the comforting heartiness of egg noodles.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Tender pieces that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: The simplest seasoning that brings out the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly browning the chicken and adding a subtle fruity note.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the base for the creamy, garlicky sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that infuses the dish.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory backbone to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously rich and silky smooth.
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (uncooked): Absorb the sauce and bring a hearty, tender bite.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that melts into the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh): Offers a fresh herbal note to brighten the flavors.
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish: Perfect for adding that final touch of color and flavor when serving.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken
Start by seasoning the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures every bite is flavorful. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook it until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust, about 4 to 5 minutes. Browning the chicken first seals in juices and boosts flavor, so don’t rush this step! Once browned, set the chicken aside—it will finish cooking later in the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. The butter will pick up leftover bits of flavor from the chicken—that’s pure magic for your sauce. Add the minced garlic next and sauté for just 30 to 60 seconds, stirring often until it’s fragrant but not browned. Garlic is the star here, infusing the dish with that irresistible aroma that invites everyone to the table.
Step 3: Add Broth and Cream for the Sauce
Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing everything together into a rich, velvety mixture. This combination forms the creamy, comforting base of your sauce that will coat every strand of egg noodle and piece of chicken. Stir gently and let the liquid warm up before adding the noodles.
Step 4: Cook the Egg Noodles Directly in the Sauce
Now, add the uncooked egg noodles right into the pan, nudging them down so they’re submerged in the creamy liquid. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking to the bottom and to ensure even cooking. This hands-off step gives you tender, perfectly cooked noodles that soak up all those amazing flavors.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Parmesan, and Parsley
Once the noodles are tender and the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and dried parsley, stirring everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce turns ultra creamy. The Parmesan adds a savory, melt-in-your-mouth richness that’s impossible to resist.
Step 6: Let It Rest and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and allow the dish to sit for about 2 to 3 minutes. This resting time helps the sauce thicken further. Finally, sprinkle with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for a burst of color and flavor. Your One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe is ready to dig into!
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top brightens the dish and adds a lovely finishing touch. A grind of fresh black pepper just before serving also elevates the flavors. These simple garnishes make your meal look as fantastic as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Because this recipe is wonderfully creamy and rich, pair it with light and crisp sides like a fresh green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans with a hint of lemon would balance the richness perfectly. Bread on the side is optional but never wrong for soaking up any leftover sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat. Offering individual ramekins or mini skillets is also charming for gatherings. The comforting presentation will invite everyone to cozy up and indulge.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delicious second meal!
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too. Just cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It’s best consumed within 2 to 3 months for optimal taste and texture. Freeze in portions for quick, comforting meals anytime you need a little kitchen shortcut.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to revive that creamy consistency. Microwaving works, but stirring midway ensures even reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in the One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe because they stay juicy and tender, plus they have a richer flavor that complements the creamy sauce well.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch as a lighter alternative, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. Greek yogurt stirred in at the end can add creaminess while keeping it lighter, too.
Are there gluten-free options for the egg noodles?
Definitely! Simply swap the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. Cooking times might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the noodles as they cook in the sauce.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can prep the chicken and chop the garlic ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the entire dish fresh to maintain that perfect creamy texture. However, leftovers reheat beautifully if you want to make it ahead and enjoy later.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! The mild garlic butter sauce and tender noodles tend to be kid-friendly. If your children are sensitive to strong flavors, you can reduce the garlic slightly, but most kids love this comforting, creamy dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal that feels homemade and indulgent, yet comes together quickly with just one pan. Give this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe a try the next time you want to impress without stress. Whether for a cozy family dinner or an easy weekday treat, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to dishes, just like it did for me!
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 Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious and creamy one-pan meal featuring tender bite-sized chicken pieces cooked with egg noodles in a rich garlic butter sauce, enhanced with Parmesan cheese and fragrant parsley. This easy-to-make dish combines protein and pasta in a comforting, flavorful sauce perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
Liquid & Dairy
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (uncooked)
Herbs & Garnish
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Generously season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper on all sides to enhance flavor before cooking.
- Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter. 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, stirring to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Cook the noodles: Add the uncooked egg noodles to the skillet, pressing them gently into the liquid so they are submerged. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
- Combine and finish the sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried parsley. Mix well until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency and the ingredients are fully combined.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken further. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and/or extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use either chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference; thighs will be juicier while breasts are leaner.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and reduce the butter slightly.
- Fresh parsley adds more vibrant flavor than dried; use according to availability.
- Make sure to stir the noodles occasionally to prevent them from sticking together or to the pan.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
