If you’re searching for a comfort meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe. It blends tender chicken, rich cream, and garlicky goodness in a luscious sauce, all tossed with soft, wide egg noodles for a soul-satisfying dinner that’s surprisingly simple to make. Each bite delivers layers of flavor that feel both indulgent and heartwarming, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests without fussing over a million pots and pans.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in creating the irresistible taste and comforting texture of this dish. From the buttery richness to the fresh garlic punch, every element is essential for that perfect harmony of flavors and colors in your skillet.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for leaner protein, cut into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a creamy richness that helps build the sauce’s luscious texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Prevents the butter from burning and contributes a subtle fruitiness to the sauté.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the entire dish with that beloved pungent and aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives a balanced, earthy depth to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a touch of smoky warmth and vibrant color to the mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle bite and rounds out the seasoning.
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and acts as the base for cooking the noodles and intensifying flavor.
- 2 cups uncooked wide egg noodles: The perfect noodle shape to soak up the creamy sauce and carry the flavors.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce to pure decadence with its silky texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish that melts beautifully into the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A fresh, green garnish that brightens and balances the richness before serving.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add your seasoned chicken pieces, tossing them with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully golden and nearly cooked through. This searing locks in juices and forms the flavor-packed foundation for your dish.
Step 2: Add Garlic for Aroma
Next, add your minced garlic to that warm skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds. This brief cooking releases the garlicky aroma without burning, creating an irresistible scent that will fill your kitchen and whet your appetite.
Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Noodles
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the uncooked wide egg noodles, then cover the skillet and let everything cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The noodles will soak up the flavorful broth while blooming into tender, perfectly cooked pasta intermingled with succulent chicken.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Lower the heat to keep it gentle now, and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce becomes beautifully creamy and the chicken finishes cooking. This final step transforms the skillet contents into a rich, indulgent meal with a sauce that clings lovingly to every noodle.
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. This simple addition not only brings a bright color contrast but also adds a fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness, making each bite more dynamic and lively.
Side Dishes
While this meal shines on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli can add a refreshing crunch and color to your plate. Light sides balance the creamy bird-and-noodle combo beautifully, rounding out your dinner with a pleasing variety of textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, arrange the chicken and noodles in a shallow bowl or on a large platter with parsley sprinkle. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a gourmet flair. If you’re hosting, offer lemon wedges on the side for a zesty option that guests can squeeze on top for a burst of brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe store best in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner repeats without losing that fresh-cooked taste.
Freezing
While cream-based dishes can sometimes shift texture when frozen, this recipe fares quite well if you want to freeze portions. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within two months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Reheating
When you’re ready to reheat, do so on low heat to avoid curdling the creamy sauce. Stir frequently and, if necessary, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and bring back its silky texture. Reheating gently preserves the flavor and moisture of the chicken and noodles beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe?
Absolutely. Chicken breasts work just as well and will make for a leaner dish. Just be sure to cut them into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent drying out.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the wide egg noodles for a gluten-free pasta of your choice. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the noodles as they simmer in the broth.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely. Spinach, peas, or mushrooms stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking add freshness and nutrition without altering the creamy comfort you love.
What is the best way to get a creamy sauce without it separating?
Using heavy cream and tempering the heat when adding it is key. Keep the temperature low and stir gently until everything melds together to ensure a smooth, silky sauce every time.
How can I make this recipe more indulgent?
For extra richness, try stirring in a tablespoon of cream cheese with the Parmesan cheese at the end, creating an ultra-creamy, velvety sauce that’s next-level delicious.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Egg Noodles Recipe is a shining example of how you can create a show-stopping dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s comfort food at its finest—rich, nourishing, and downright delicious. I cannot recommend it enough for your next cozy night in or when you simply want to treat yourself effortlessly. Give it a try—you might just have a new favorite go-to recipe that brings warmth and joy to your table every time.
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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
This one-pan creamy garlic butter chicken with egg noodles is a comforting, flavorful dinner that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Tender pieces of chicken are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with Italian seasoning and paprika, then simmered together with egg noodles in chicken broth. Finished with heavy cream and Parmesan, this creamy skillet meal is garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Base and Cream
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups uncooked wide egg noodles
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and nearly cooked through.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Simmer with noodles: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the uncooked egg noodles, cover the skillet, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add cream and cheese: Lower the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish, give a final stir, and serve hot directly from the pan.
Notes
- For added richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese with the Parmesan.
- Add baby spinach or peas in the last few minutes of cooking for extra vegetables.
