One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles Simple Delight

Looking for a simple yet delicious meal? One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is the answer! This dish combines tender chicken thighs, buttery noodles, and fresh veggies—all cooked in one pan. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Follow along as I guide you through each step, ensuring a tasty and stress-free cooking experience. Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required, as everything is cooked in a single skillet.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, onions, and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out vegetables or add your favorite protein to suit your taste.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– Chicken Thighs: 4 boneless, skinless
– Noodles: 150g egg noodles or preferred pasta
– Aromatics: Olive oil, butter, garlic, onion
– Vegetables: Fresh spinach, bell pepper, seasonings
The dish shines with simple yet fresh ingredients that make it special. Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. They bring a rich taste to the meal. I like using boneless, skinless thighs for easy cooking. They cook evenly and stay moist.
Egg noodles are my go-to here. They soak up the sauce well and add a nice texture. You can also choose your favorite pasta if you prefer. Just cook it until it is al dente for the best bite.
Aromatics like olive oil and butter create a rich base. They add depth to the dish. Garlic and onion bring a lovely fragrance. I always use fresh garlic for the best flavor. It gives the meal a warm, inviting aroma.
For the vegetables, fresh spinach and bell pepper add color and nutrition. Spinach wilts down nicely, while the bell pepper offers a sweet crunch. Seasonings like oregano, salt, and pepper enhance all the flavors. They balance the dish perfectly.
This blend of ingredients makes One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles a simple delight. Each element works together to create a comforting and tasty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This step helps the seasoning stick better. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. This mix adds great flavor. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you heat the skillet.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shines, add the chicken thighs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and fully cooked. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate.
Sauté the Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for around 2 minutes. The onion should turn translucent and smell great.
Incorporate the Vegetables
Now, add the sliced bell pepper and fresh spinach. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt and the bell pepper to soften. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
Cook the Noodles
Next, stir in the egg noodles and chicken broth. Bring this to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes. The noodles should be al dente. Stir now and then to stop them from sticking.
Combine and Coat
Once the noodles are done, return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Add the butter and gently toss everything together. This helps the flavors blend and the butter melt nicely.
Finish and Serve
If you like, sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently once more to mix. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the dish warm in a large bowl to show off those bright colors.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Ensuring Chicken is Fully Cooked: Always check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This step keeps your meal safe and tasty.
– Preventing Noodles from Sticking: Stir the noodles gently while cooking. This helps separate them. Make sure to stir every couple of minutes. It keeps your noodles smooth and easy to eat.
Flavor Enhancements
– Additional Seasonings: You can add herbs like basil or thyme for more depth. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick. Experiment to find your favorite mix!
– Importance of Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and bell peppers make a big difference. They add better taste and color. Always choose vibrant veggies when you can.
Serving Suggestions
– Pairing Options: Serve this dish with a light salad or garlic bread. These sides balance the meal well. They also add more flavor and texture to your dining experience.
– Ideal Serving Temperature: The dish tastes best warm. Serve it right after cooking. It keeps the flavors fresh and the noodles from drying out.
Pro Tips
- Maximize Flavor: Marinate the chicken thighs in olive oil, garlic, and oregano for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Perfect Noodles: To ensure the noodles don’t clump together, stir them occasionally while cooking and make sure to use enough broth.
- Fresh Spinach: Add the spinach at the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of lemon zest with the parsley can elevate the dish with a fresh, zesty flavor.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
– Chicken Alternatives: You can use chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of thighs. For a lighter option, lean turkey works well too.
– Pasta Options: Swap egg noodles for whole wheat pasta for more fiber. If you need gluten-free, try rice noodles or quinoa pasta.
Dietary Modifications
– Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas. Both options soak up flavors well and add protein.
– Vegan Option: Use plant-based broth and eliminate butter. Instead, try a vegan butter or olive oil for a rich taste.
Flavor Twist Ideas
– Adding Spices: Spice it up with paprika for a smoky flavor or curry powder for an exotic twist. You can also add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for freshness.
– Incorporating Cheese Variants: Instead of Parmesan, try goat cheese for creaminess or feta for a tangy kick. Each cheese brings a unique taste to the dish.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
How long does One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles last in the fridge? It stays good for about 3 to 4 days. To store it, put the leftovers in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and tasty. You can also separate the chicken from the noodles if you prefer.
Freezing
How do you freeze One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles? First, let it cool completely. Then, pack it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out as much air as you can to avoid freezer burn. It can stay frozen for about 2 to 3 months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Tips
What is the best way to reheat One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles? You can use a microwave, stovetop, or oven. For the microwave, cover it loosely and heat for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to warm it evenly. On the stovetop, add a splash of broth and heat gently. For the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes. To keep the flavor and texture, add a bit of butter or broth while reheating.
FAQs
How long does it take to make One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
Making One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles takes about 30 minutes. You need around 10 minutes to prep the ingredients. Cooking takes about 20 minutes.
Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Thaw them in the fridge overnight for best results. If you’re short on time, use a microwave on the defrost setting. Just be sure to cook them fully.
What can I serve with One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread is a great side too!
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use less butter. You can also swap egg noodles for whole wheat or zucchini noodles. Add more veggies like carrots or peas to boost nutrition.
Is it possible to double this recipe?
Yes, you can double this recipe. Just use a larger pan to fit all the ingredients. Keep an eye on the cooking times, as they may need slight adjustments.
This recipe for One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is both simple and delicious. We covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and variations to meet different diets. Remember, using fresh ingredients can really enhance the flavors. Experiment with spices and side dishes to make it your own. Whether you serve it for family or guests, this dish will shine. Keep these tips in mind to make cooking easy and fun. Enjoy your tasty creatio

One-Pan Chicken Delight with Buttered Noodles
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 150 grams egg noodles or your preferred pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 piece bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup chicken broth or low-sodium stock
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano for enhanced flavor. Set the seasoned chicken aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Incorporate the Vegetables: Add the sliced bell pepper and fresh spinach to the skillet. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the bell pepper softens, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Noodles: Stir in the egg noodles along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
- Combine and Coat: Once the noodles are cooked, return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Add the tablespoon of unsalted butter and gently toss everything together to ensure the flavors meld and the butter melts beautifully.
- Finish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently once more to incorporate the cheese. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.