One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

One-pan chicken with buttered noodles is a simple, comforting dish that combines juicy chicken with tender, buttery noodles—all made in one pan for easy cleanup! Here’s how to make it:

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Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Season and Sear the Chicken:

1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside (it will finish cooking later).

2. Cook the Noodles:

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir to combine.
3. Add the egg noodles and stir to submerge them in the liquid.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

3. Add the Chicken Back to the Skillet:

1. Nestle the seared chicken breasts into the noodles.
2. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

4. Finish the Dish:

1. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Stir the butter, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using) into the noodles until the butter is melted and the sauce is creamy.
3. Slice the chicken and place it back on top of the noodles.

5. Serve:

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Tips:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Creamier Sauce: Add more heavy cream or a splash of milk if you prefer a saucier dish.
• Pasta Swap: Use any pasta you have on hand, like fettuccine, penne, or bowtie pasta.

This one-pan chicken with buttered noodles is a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!