There’s something magical about a one-pot meal.
It’s simple, flavorful, and keeps the cleanup to a minimum.
This Easy One-Pot Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the ultimate comfort food.
Tender, golden-brown chicken is nestled on a bed of buttery, garlicky noodles and smothered in a creamy sauce.
It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly.
Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe delivers every time.
Let’s dive in and see how to make this crowd-pleaser.
Why We Love This Recipe
This recipe has everything we love about home cooking—simplicity, flavor, and versatility.
It’s perfect for those days when you want a hearty, satisfying meal without a sink full of dishes.
The chicken is seared to golden perfection, locking in the juices, while the noodles soak up all the rich flavors of the sauce.
The creamy, garlicky butter sauce is pure comfort in every bite.
It’s a dish that feels like it took hours to make, but it’s surprisingly quick and easy.
What makes it even better is that it’s versatile.
You can customize it with your favorite herbs, add some veggies for a balanced meal, or even swap out the noodles for rice or mashed potatoes.
Plus, the one-pot method means less time spent cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.
Ingredients
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Serves: 4
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Buttered Noodles
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each piece.
This seasoning blend ensures the chicken is flavorful and beautifully browned.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs in a single layer.
Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the noodles, then toss them with the butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, reduce the heat to medium.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and butter, mixing until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
This takes about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken and let it absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Serve the chicken over the buttered noodles, spooning extra sauce on top.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Perfect One-Pot Chicken with Buttered Noodles
Use Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving than breasts, making them ideal for this dish.
If you prefer chicken breasts, be sure to adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
Don’t Skip the Sear
Searing the chicken first creates a golden crust and locks in the juices, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
Season the Noodles
Don’t overlook the noodles—they’re just as important as the chicken.
The butter and garlic powder add a rich, comforting flavor that ties the dish together.
Deglaze the Pot
Scraping up the browned bits from the skillet when adding the broth adds incredible flavor to the sauce.
Let the Sauce Simmer
Simmering the sauce ensures it thickens and develops a creamy, cohesive flavor.
Variations to Try
For a veggie-packed version, add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the skillet before making the sauce.
For a zesty twist, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice into the sauce and garnish with lemon zest.
If you love cheese, stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan to the sauce for a richer flavor.
Swap the noodles for mashed potatoes or steamed rice for a different base.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage
Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and noodles together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Freezing
While the chicken and sauce freeze well, the noodles may lose their texture.
If you plan to freeze this dish, consider storing the chicken and sauce separately from the noodles.
Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Easy One-Pot Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the kind of dish that checks all the boxes—simple, delicious, and comforting.
It’s a meal you’ll turn to time and time again, whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends.
The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and buttery noodles is pure comfort food at its finest.
What’s more, the one-pot method saves you time and effort, making this recipe a true winner.
So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Happy cooking!