Name: One Pan Chicken Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces egg noodles; 3 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; salt and pepper to taste; fresh parsley for garnish

Introduction to One Pan Chicken Noodles

In our fast-paced lives, finding time to cook a delicious meal can seem daunting, especially for busy professionals. That’s where one pan recipes, like our delightful One Pan Chicken Noodles, come to the rescue! Not only do they save you time during preparation and cooking, but they also significantly cut down on cleanup. Imagine whipping up a hearty meal without having to tackle a pile of dirty dishes afterward — bliss, right?

One pan recipes allow for the flavors to meld beautifully while minimizing the chaos in the kitchen. According to a report by the Culinary Institute of America, cooking with fewer pots and pans encourages a more relaxed cooking experience, enabling you to enjoy the process rather than rush through it. Plus, the simplicity of using one pan means you can spend more time savoring your meal and unwinding after a long day.

Whether you’re feeding yourself or hosting friends, these one pan chicken noodles combine tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles for a satisfying dinner that impresses without the fuss. Stick around as we dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Ready to get cooking? Let's go!

Ingredients for One Pan Chicken Noodles

When it comes to whip up a hearty meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans, One Pan Chicken Noodles truly stands out. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish come to life:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Opt for fresh chicken for the juiciest results.
2 tablespoons of olive oil: A must for sautéing and adding flavor.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Because who doesn’t love a hint of garlic?
2 cups of chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness.
1 cup of heavy cream: This adds a rich, velvety texture you’ll crave.
8 ounces of egg noodles: They cook quickly and soak up the flavors beautifully.
3 tablespoons of butter: For that creamy finish.
¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of cheese elevates the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out the flavors.
Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness.

With these simple ingredients, you're on your way to enjoying a delightful one-pan meal that keeps cleanup easy! If you have any questions or need substitutions, feel free to check out this guide on ingredient swaps. Ready to dive into cooking? Let's go!

Preparing One Pan Chicken Noodles

Cooking doesn't have to be a chore, especially when you can whip up a delightful one pan chicken noodles dish that’s both easy and delicious. This guide walks you through the steps to make this comforting meal, perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday. Let’s jump right in!

Gather and prep the ingredients

Before you start cooking, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons of olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups of chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup of heavy cream
8 ounces of egg noodles
3 tablespoons of butter
¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper for seasoning
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to measure everything out, as this will help you assess cooking times and maintain the perfect flavor balance. A well-prepared kitchen enhances your cooking experience!

Cook the chicken to perfection

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil warms up, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.

Pro tip: If you want to ensure your chicken is juicy, consider checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C). This will guarantee a flavorful result that won’t leave your chicken dry.

Sauté garlic for flavor infusion

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic after the chicken is cooked. You'll want to sauté it just until fragrant—this should only take about 30 seconds. Garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your one pan chicken noodles dish, elevating its taste to a whole new level.

Combine broth, cream, and noodles

Once your garlic is beautifully aromatic, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything to combine, then bring it to a light simmer. Now it’s time to introduce the egg noodles! Add them to the skillet, cover, and let them cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are al dente. The noodles should absorb the flavors of the broth and cream, creating a rich sauce.

Finish with butter and cheese

As your noodles reach the perfect tenderness, stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. This last step makes all the difference, creating a luscious, velvety sauce that clings to every strand of noodle. Add the chicken back into the pan to warm it through, then garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

And there you have it—your one pan chicken noodles is ready to serve! This dish not only looks great but is also a delight to the taste buds. Enjoy!

Variations on One Pan Chicken Noodles

Add veggies for extra nutrition

Transform your one pan chicken noodles into a vibrant, healthy meal by incorporating your favorite vegetables. Think of adding:

Spinach or kale for an iron boost.
Bell peppers for color and sweetness.
Broccoli florets for crunch and fiber.

These additions not only enhance the dish's nutritional profile but also make it visually appealing. Plus, they cook quickly alongside the noodles, maintaining their flavor and texture.

Spice it up with different seasonings

If you’re craving a flavor journey, play around with various seasonings! Consider:

Italian herbs like basil and oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
Cajun spices for a kick of heat.
Lemon zest or juice to brighten the dish.

Experimenting with spices allows you to customize your one pan chicken noodles to fit your mood or the occasion. The possibilities are endless!

Cooking Tips and Notes for One Pan Chicken Noodles

When whipping up one pan chicken noodles, efficiency and flavor are key! Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience:

Prep Ahead: Chop your garlic and gather all ingredients beforehand. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Adjust Liquid Amounts: Depending on your favorite noodle brand, you might need slightly more or less broth. Keep an eye out for how the noodles absorb the liquid.
Seasoning: Don’t hold back on seasoning your chicken. A dash of paprika or Italian herbs adds a lovely depth to the dish.
Garnish with Care: Fresh parsley not only brightens the dish but also adds a pop of flavor and color. Consider adding grated lemon zest for an extra zing!

For further tips, check out this cooking guide for more on one-pot meals. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for One Pan Chicken Noodles

Elevate your one pan chicken noodles with a few delicious serving suggestions!

Fresh Side Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness to your meal. Consider using a simple lemon dressing to complement the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a comforting twist. The garlic will enhance the flavors of the chicken and noodles beautifully.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make perfect accompaniments. Steaming retains nutrients and adds vibrant color to your plate.
Herb Garnish: Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or chives, to contrast the creamy sauce and add a pop of flavor!

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing!

Time Breakdown for One Pan Chicken Noodles

Preparation Time

Getting started on your one pan chicken noodles doesn't take long—around 10 minutes. Chop garlic, season the chicken, and have your ingredients ready to go. The quicker you prep, the faster you can savor this delicious meal!

Cooking Time

The cooking process takes approximately 20 minutes. You're looking at about 6 minutes for the chicken, 2 minutes for the garlic, and another 8-10 minutes for the noodles to simmer to perfection. It's a breeze, ensuring you spend minimal time in the kitchen!

Total Time

In total, you’ll invest about 30 minutes from start to finish. That's right—a delicious and hearty meal ready to serve in half an hour! Perfect for a busy weeknight or last-minute entertaining. Happy cooking!

For more recipes and kitchen tips, consider checking out The Kitchn or Serious Eats for inspirations and culinary advice!

Nutritional Facts for One Pan Chicken Noodles

Calories

One serving of one pan chicken noodles contains approximately 600 calories. It’s a satisfying dish, perfect for a hearty dinner after a long day.

Protein

Packed with about 40 grams of protein per serving, this recipe is excellent for muscle repair and growth. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein to fuel your active lifestyle.

Sodium

With around 900 milligrams of sodium, this meal provides flavor while allowing room for seasoning. Consider using low-sodium broth to further control your sodium intake without sacrificing taste.

For additional nutrition resources, you might find the USDA FoodData Central here helpful for exploring food data and maintaining a balanced diet!

FAQs about One Pan Chicken Noodles

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While this one pan chicken noodles recipe calls for egg noodles, you can experiment with various pasta types such as farfalle, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust your simmering time accordingly to ensure the pasta is al dente.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow your one pan chicken noodles to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you want to indulge in this delicious dish later on, consider freezing portions for up to three months—just remember to label your containers.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

Reheating one pan chicken noodles can be done in several ways:

Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist, and heat in intervals until warmed through.
Stovetop: Add a little broth to a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warm.

Both methods will bring back that delightful creaminess while keeping the flavors intact!

Conclusion on One Pan Chicken Noodles

In summary, one pan chicken noodles is the ultimate comfort food solution for busy weeknights. This recipe not only keeps cleanup a breeze but also infuses your meal with rich flavors and creamy goodness. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a hearty dinner that satisfies! For more ideas, check out Cooking Light for additional one-pan recipes that fit your lifestyle.