Name: One Pan Chicken Noodles: 2 Amazing Flavors
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pieces Chicken Breasts; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 2 cloves Garlic; 1 cup Chicken Broth; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 8 ounces Egg Noodles; 2 tablespoons Butter; 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley

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One Pan Chicken Noodles have become my absolute go-to for those nights when I’m craving comfort food but dread the cleanup. I remember one particularly chaotic Tuesday evening, juggling work calls and a hungry family, when I stumbled upon this method. The aroma of garlic and savory chicken filling my kitchen, all from a single skillet, was pure magic. It’s truly an easy one pan chicken noodles recipe that delivers incredible flavor and a wonderfully creamy texture. This is the ultimate chicken noodle recipe for busy people, so let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Chicken Noodles

You’re going to adore this recipe for so many reasons. It’s a flavor explosion that’s unbelievably easy to make.

Incredible taste with a rich, creamy sauce
Super fast prep time of only 10 minutes
A satisfying and relatively healthy meal option
Budget-friendly using common pantry staples
A guaranteed family-pleaser, even for picky eaters
This skillet chicken and noodles recipe means minimal dishes
It’s a truly quick one pan chicken noodles solution for busy nights
Enjoy the deliciousness of skillet chicken and noodles without the fuss

Ingredients for One Pan Chicken Noodles

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious meal. This recipe focuses on creating that signature creamy one pan chicken noodles sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics
2 cloves garlic, minced – the flavor base
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – adds depth and liquid for the noodles
1 cup heavy cream – essential for that rich, creamy texture
8 ounces egg noodles – the classic choice for this dish
2 tablespoons unsalted butter – for richness and a glossy finish
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty flavor
Salt, to taste – season as needed
Black pepper, to taste – freshly ground is best
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – for a pop of color and freshness

How to Make One Pan Chicken Noodles

Follow these simple steps for a delicious and easy meal. Learning how to make one pan chicken noodles has never been this straightforward!

Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: In the very same skillet, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté them for around 30 seconds until you can really smell their fragrant aroma.
Step 3: Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 2-3 minutes to start creating that lovely sauce.
Step 4: Now, add 8 ounces of egg noodles directly into the simmering sauce. This is where the magic happens for this one pot chicken noodles recipe. Cover the skillet and let the noodles cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring them occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Once the noodles are perfectly tender, stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the butter is melted and the cheese is fully incorporated, creating a wonderfully rich and creamy sauce.
Step 6: Slice the seared chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet. Let it warm through in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes. This step ensures your one pan chicken noodle dish is ready to serve. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped, for a burst of freshness and color before serving this amazing one pan chicken noodles creation.

One Pan Chicken Noodles: 2 Amazing Flavors - One Pan Chicken Noodles - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best One Pan Chicken Noodles

Want to elevate your meal from good to absolutely divine? These tips will help you achieve the best one pan chicken noodle dish every single time.

Sear your chicken properly: Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary. This ensures a beautiful golden-brown crust and locks in flavor.
Use quality broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the saltiness. Homemade broth adds an extra layer of flavor if you have it!
Don’t overcook the noodles: Keep an eye on them during the simmering process. They finish cooking in the sauce, so slightly undercooking them initially is key.
Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash more broth or milk. For extra richness, a touch more butter or Parmesan works wonders.

What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Chicken Noodles?

The secret is building flavor in layers. Searing the chicken first, sautéing the garlic, and then deglazing the pan creates a rich base for your sauce. This makes it an truly easy chicken noodle skillet meal.

Can I make One Pan Chicken Noodles ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Cook the noodles and sauce just before serving to maintain the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Chicken Noodles?

A common pitfall is mushy noodles; avoid this by not over-simmering. Also, ensure your chicken is cooked through before returning it to the sauce to prevent undercooked meat, which can happen with a chicken noodle bake one pan approach if not timed correctly.

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Chicken Noodles

This comforting dish is fantastic on its own, but I love to pair it with a few simple sides to make it a complete meal. It’s a wonderfully satisfying dinner that can be customized with your favorite additions. Consider it a blank canvas for deliciousness!

For a complete meal, serve this one pan chicken noodle dinner with a crisp side salad. A simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the noodles beautifully.
Add some steamed or roasted vegetables to your plate. Think broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a vibrant and healthy contrast. This is a great way to enjoy a vegetable one pan chicken noodle experience.
Crusty bread is always a winner for soaking up any extra sauce. A garlic bread or a simple baguette is perfect for this.

One Pan Chicken Noodles: 2 Amazing Flavors - One Pan Chicken Noodles - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for One Pan Chicken Noodles

While this dish is incredibly comforting and satisfying, it also offers a good nutritional profile, making it a great choice for a healthy one pan chicken noodles meal. Here’s a look at the estimated breakdown per serving:

Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 50 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 800 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of chicken broth or cream.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Chicken Noodles

The beauty of this one pan chicken noodle comfort food is that it reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for enjoying leftovers. Once the dish has cooled down completely, transfer it into airtight containers. You can store these containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you find yourself with extra deliciousness that you won’t get to in a few days, freezing is also an option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for about 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop. Place the noodles in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, covering the container loosely to retain moisture. Either way, you’ll get to enjoy that comforting flavor again!

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Chicken Noodles

Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, you can experiment with other pasta shapes. Penne, rotini, or even linguine can work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions, as different noodles absorb liquid differently. This flexibility helps make it a truly simple one pan chicken noodles meal.

What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I substitute it?

Yes, you can! For a lighter option, try using half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce might be a bit thinner. You can also use evaporated milk for a similar richness. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk is a great substitute, though it will impart a subtle coconut flavor. Remember, the goal is a creamy sauce, so find the best substitute for your needs.

Can I make this into a sheet pan chicken noodles dish?

While this recipe is designed for a skillet, you *can* adapt it for a sheet pan. You would toss the chicken and uncooked noodles with the sauce ingredients (adjusting liquid slightly) and spread them on a large, foil-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until noodles are tender and chicken is cooked through, likely around 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway. It’s a different approach, but still one pan!

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

This recipe is a fantastic base for adding your favorite veggies! Towards the end of the noodle cooking time (Step 4), stir in a cup of spinach, peas, broccoli florets, or diced bell peppers. They’ll steam in the sauce and add extra color, nutrients, and flavor, making it a lovely sheet pan chicken noodles adaptation or a more robust skillet meal.

Variations of One Pan Chicken Noodles You Can Try

This versatile recipe is a fantastic starting point, and I love experimenting with different flavors and methods. Here are a few ideas to keep your one pan chicken noodle adventures exciting!

Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic in Step 2. You can also stir in some sriracha or a dash of hot sauce at the end for an extra zing.
Vegetable Medley: Elevate this dish by adding more vegetables. Consider a chicken noodle stir fry one pan style by tossing in snap peas, carrots, and bell peppers with the noodles. This makes for a vibrant and satisfying meal.
Lemon Herb Twist: Brighten up the flavor profile by adding the zest and juice of one lemon in Step 5, along with the butter and Parmesan. Fresh dill or chives can also be added with the parsley for a lovely herbal note.
Dairy-Free Option: Achieve that luscious texture without dairy by using full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. This creates a wonderfully rich and subtly sweet sauce, making it a delicious dairy-free take on creamy one pan chicken noodles.