Hello, food enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s going to transform your weeknight dinners into something truly special. Imagine tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles all in one pan—talk about convenience and flavor rolled into one delicious dish! Trust me, this one’s a keeper.
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Why You’ll Love One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Noodles
This isn’t just another chicken noodle dish—it’s versatile, budget-friendly, quick, customizable, and crowd-pleasing. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a dinner party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly
Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy
Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable
Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Noodles
Here’s the magic of this one-pan meal—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they soak up all those dreamy flavors. If you’re a fan of juicy, flavorful chicken, you’re going to love this!
Noodles: Your choice of pasta adds texture and heartiness to the dish. Whether you prefer egg noodles, fettuccine, or penne, they all work wonderfully here.
Cream: The base of the creamy sauce that brings everything together. Heavy cream creates a rich and velvety texture that coats every bite.
Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the chicken to perfection. A little goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor.
Garlic: Aromatic garlic infuses the dish with warmth and depth. Just a few cloves will do the trick.
Onion: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch to the dish. Sautéed onions complement the other flavors beautifully.
Broth: Chicken broth provides moisture and enhances the savory taste. Use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt content.
Flour: Helps thicken the sauce and gives it a smooth consistency. Whisk it into the broth for the best results.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish. Freshly grated Parmesan works best.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
Start by preheating your pan over medium heat. This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.
Cook the Chicken
In your preheated pan, add butter and chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown on each side, then remove from the pan and set aside. This step locks in the juices and keeps the chicken tender.
Sauté the Veggies
In the same pan, add garlic and onion. Sauté until soft and fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water!
Make the Sauce
Add flour to the pan and whisk to form a roux. Gradually pour in broth and cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. This step creates the creamy base that makes the dish irresistible.
Combine Ingredients
Return the chicken to the pan and add noodles. Stir everything together and let it simmer until the noodles are cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finish the Dish
Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the dish simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a side salad or served on its own, this recipe is sure to impress.
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Noodles
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads
Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread
Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone
Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead
Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Spice It Up
Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments
If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch
This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute chicken breasts with thighs?
A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it just before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Doubling the recipe works well, especially if you’re feeding a crowd. Just make sure to use a larger pan and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q7: Can I use whole wheat noodles?
A7: Sure thing! Whole wheat noodles will add a bit of extra fiber and work just fine in this dish.
Q8: Is there a vegan alternative for cream?
A8: Yes, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream as a vegan alternative. Keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly but will still taste great.
Q9: Can I add mushrooms to the dish?
A9: Absolutely! Adding sliced mushrooms will add a nice texture and earthy flavor to the dish.
Q10: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
A10: Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative. It will change the flavor slightly but still work well.
Conclusion
There you have it, my friends—a delicious and easy-to-make One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Noodles that’s bound to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy weekend dinner or preparing for a bustling weekday evening, this dish has got you covered. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that pan, and get ready to savor every bite. Happy cooking!
Print
One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Noodles
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pan Creamy Chicken & Noodles is the perfect comfort meal—tender seared chicken breasts nestled in a rich, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce with egg noodles. Quick, easy, and made in just one pan!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio)
Instructions
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. (Optional: Deglaze the pan with white wine and let it reduce for 1 minute.)
- Create the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Cook the noodles: Add egg noodles, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Finish the dish: Stir in butter and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Return chicken to the skillet and let it warm for a minute.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Add veggies: Try mushrooms, spinach, or onions for extra flavor.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Cheese variation: Swap Parmesan with Gruyere or mozzarella for extra richness.
- Brighten the dish: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice balances the flavors.
- Thicker sauce: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the sauce.
- Chicken alternative: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well too.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg