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This easy one pan chicken noodles recipe is my favorite for busy nights when I want a hearty meal without much cleanup. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a creamy sauce with rich egg noodles, delivering total comfort and flavor in just half an hour. If you love simple and satisfying dinners, this will quickly become a go-to.
The first time I made this was after a long workday and it instantly became my weeknight comfort food. The creamy egg noodles combined with juicy chicken reminds me of home every time.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: choose boneless skinless pieces for faster cook time and juicy texture
- Olive oil: brings richness to sear chicken beautifully
- Garlic cloves: fresh is best for maximum aroma and depth
- Chicken broth: use low sodium for better control over seasoning
- Heavy cream: creates that velvety sauce
- Egg noodles: I prefer wide egg noodles for their curl and bite
- Butter: adds silkiness at the end
- Parmesan cheese: grate it fresh for a sharp salty flavor
- Salt and pepper: season with good coarse salt and fresh cracked pepper
- Fresh parsley: adds color and a fresh finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. This locks in flavor and helps produce a golden crust
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place chicken breasts in pan and let cook for five to six minutes per side until fully golden. Set chicken aside on a plate
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet lower the heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant about thirty seconds to one minute. Stir constantly to keep the garlic from burning
- Build the Creamy Base:
- Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Scrape up brown bits on the bottom for extra flavor. Watch for a steady bubble but do not boil
- Cook the Noodles:
- Once simmering stir in egg noodles. Ensure they are submerged in liquid. Cover with a lid and cook eight to ten minutes stirring occasionally until noodles are tender but not mushy
- Finish with Cheese and Butter:
- Uncover and add butter plus grated Parmesan. Stir well until both are fully melted into the sauce. Check seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as desired
- Combine Chicken and Garnish:
- Return cooked chicken to pan nestle it into the noodles and warm through two minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the skillet and serve straight from the pan
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I always reach for Parmesan because it melts into the sauce with so much nutty sharpness and makes this dish extra special. Once my family sat down and finished the whole pan before I even grabbed seconds that is when I knew this recipe was a winner.
Storage Tips
- Let leftovers cool completely before storing
- Place in airtight containers and refrigerate up to three days
- For best texture reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce
Ingredient Substitutions
- You can swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for extra juiciness
- Try half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter dish
- No Parmesan Use pecorino or cheddar for a different flavor twist
- If you do not have egg noodles any short pasta shape works in a pinch
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal
- A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce
- It makes excellent leftovers for a cozy lunch the next day
Cultural Context
This dish blends American comfort food tradition with a nod to creamy pasta favorites. One pan meals have been a staple in home kitchens for their simplicity and ability to stretch ingredients. It is the kind of recipe passed around at potlucks and cozy family tables.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs cook well and offer extra juiciness. Adjust searing time as needed.
- → What kind of noodles work best?
Egg noodles are preferred for their texture, but similar pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle can be substituted.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
- → Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the sauce may be less rich. Add a teaspoon of flour for thickness if needed.
- → How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
Sear chicken until just cooked, then let it finish warming through at the end. This helps keep it tender.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely—chopped spinach, peas, or mushrooms pair well and can be added in with the noodles or sauce.