There's something so comforting about a big pan of creamy noodles, especially when they're tossed with tender, golden-seared chicken and rich, buttery sauce. This One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles delivers all the cozy, homestyle flavor you crave—without the pile of dishes to match.

This dish came to life on a busy Tuesday evening, when I needed something fast, filling, and guaranteed to please my picky eaters. One pan, a handful of pantry staples, and thirty minutes later—we had a new family favorite. It’s creamy, satisfying, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat.

Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Why You'll Love This One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

Get ready to meet your new go-to dinner. This one-pan wonder isn’t just comforting—it’s practical, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights.

First, let’s talk ease. Everything cooks in a single skillet—yes, even the noodles. That means fewer dishes and a quicker cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying dinner and less time scrubbing pots.

It’s also lightning fast. From start to finish, you’ll have this creamy chicken noodle dish on the table in under 35 minutes. No need to pre-cook pasta or fuss over multiple burners.

Budget-friendly? Absolutely. With simple ingredients like pasta, chicken, and broth, this recipe is easy on the wallet but big on flavor. Perfect for feeding a family or stretching a weeknight meal.

And don’t forget how versatile it is. You can switch out the pasta shape, swap the protein, or toss in extra veggies without skipping a beat. This recipe adapts to what you have—and what you’re craving.

Now that you're hooked, let’s break down the key ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in how a few humble ingredients come together to create something rich, creamy, and soul-satisfying. Each one plays a part in building that luscious flavor and cozy texture.

Chicken is the protein of choice here, and boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully. They cook up quickly and develop a nice golden sear when done right. If you prefer something juicier, chicken thighs are an excellent substitute and bring even more richness to the final dish.

Egg noodles are essential for that classic buttery feel. Their soft, curly texture soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully without becoming mushy. They also cook quickly, making them ideal for one-pan meals like this.

Butter is more than just a flavor enhancer—it’s the star of the sauce. Use real, unsalted butter for best results. It forms the base of that silky finish, adding richness and depth with every bite.

Chicken broth is the secret to cooking the noodles in the same pan. It adds layers of savory flavor that water simply can’t match. As it reduces and mingles with the butter, it creates a silky sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.

To bring it all together, you’ll need a large, deep skillet or sauté pan with a lid. This helps trap steam to cook the noodles evenly and keeps everything contained without drying out.

How To Make This One-Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles

This recipe is a total lifesaver on hectic nights, and the process couldn’t be easier. Here's how to bring it all together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures quick, even cooking. Season the pieces generously with salt and pepper while heating a tablespoon of oil and a pat of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Once the pan is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes so it gets that beautiful golden sear. Flip and cook the other side until fully done, about 6–7 minutes total. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside, but don’t wipe the pan—you’ll want to keep all those flavorful brown bits.

Lower the heat to medium and add another tablespoon of butter. Toss in a bit of minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all the bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

Once the broth is simmering, stir in the egg noodles. Make sure they're mostly submerged, then cover the pan with a lid. Let the noodles cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking. If the liquid starts to evaporate too quickly, add a splash more broth or water.

When the noodles are just tender, return the chicken to the pan along with the remaining butter. Stir everything gently to coat the chicken and pasta in the buttery, creamy sauce. The starch from the noodles and the butter will naturally thicken the sauce into a glossy, rich coating.

The whole process takes about 30–35 minutes, from prep to plate. You’ll end up with a warm, satisfying dinner that looks and tastes like it took twice as long to make.

Storage Options

Leftovers? You're in luck—this dish stores like a dream. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, this recipe freezes well too. Spoon it into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and store for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, then warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals. It reheats beautifully without losing its creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit your mood or pantry. Here are a few of my favorite spins on the classic version.

Swap the chicken for turkey, sausage, or even sliced mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time based on your protein of choice.

Try using different pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or even small shells. Just be sure to watch the liquid levels, as different shapes absorb broth differently.

Want a cheesy upgrade? Stir in a handful of grated parmesan or shredded mozzarella at the end. It melts into the sauce, making everything even creamier and more indulgent.

For a pop of green, toss in frozen peas, spinach, or chopped broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll steam right in the pan and add a nice contrast to the rich noodles.

Feeling spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce before adding the noodles. It adds just enough heat to wake up your taste buds without overwhelming the dish.

No matter how you make it, this recipe is all about comfort, ease, and flavor. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own—it’s the kind of meal that welcomes creativity and always delivers.