This one-pan chicken with buttered noodles recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cleanup, and delivers a delicious, comforting meal the whole family will love. Tender chicken breasts are roasted alongside perfectly cooked noodles, all infused with a rich, buttery flavor. This recipe is adaptable to your preferences, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or seasonings for a customized culinary experience.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe utilizes the power of one pan to streamline the cooking process. By roasting the chicken and noodles together, you cut down on prep time and dishwashing. The chicken juices mingle with the noodles during cooking, creating a flavorful sauce that coats every strand. The simplicity of the recipe allows you to focus on quality ingredients, resulting in a meal that tastes far more impressive than its ease of preparation would suggest.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb dried egg noodles
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup broccoli florets, 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms, or other vegetables of your choice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large, oven-safe skillet (at least 12 inches).
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles, reserving about 1/4 cup of the cooking water.
- Combine ingredients: Add the butter to the prepared skillet and melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cooked noodles and toss to coat with the butter and garlic.
- Add chicken and seasonings: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, spreading them evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and noodles. If using vegetables, add them now.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the noodles are tender and slightly browned. If the noodles seem dry, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved cooking water during the last few minutes of baking.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, you can experiment with other types of pasta, such as fettuccine, linguine, or even rotini. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the pasta shape.
What other vegetables can I add?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and carrots all work well. Just add them along with the chicken and noodles.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use less butter or substitute it with olive oil for a healthier fat option. You can also increase the amount of vegetables to boost the nutritional value. Using whole wheat noodles is another way to add fiber and nutrients.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can assemble the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, simply bake when ready to eat. Note that the noodles might absorb more liquid if they sit for a while.
What if my chicken isn't fully cooked after 25 minutes?
Continue baking in 5-minute intervals until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
This one-pan chicken with buttered noodles recipe is a perfect example of simple, delicious weeknight cooking. Enjoy!
